Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union Announces 2nd Annual Idea Leap Grant Semifinalists

Monday, July 22, 2019

Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union announces the top 20 Idea Leap Grant semifinalists for 2019.

“We know that small businesses are the lifeblood of the community,” said Todd Fortner, president and CEO, TVFCU. “We had an array of small businesses throughout our 13-county service area apply. We are honored to announce the top 20 semifinalist and wish them the best of luck as they showcase their businesses for the Idea Leap Grant selection committee.”

"The grant initiative is an extension of TVFCU’s Idea Leap Loan Initiative that was created in October 2016. The Idea Leap Loan fills a void in the community for loans up to $50,000 to emerging businesses. Through the Idea Leap Grant Initiative, TVFCU is reinvesting the Idea Leap Loan proceeds back into the community," officials said.

During the next round, an independent, volunteer grant selection committee will interview the 20 semifinalists. From there, the top ten finalists will pitch their business plans on Tuesday, Oct. 22, during Startup Week. Five businesses will be selected to win one of five grants valued at (1) $20,000, (1) $15,000, (1) $10,000 and (2) $2,500. Full rules are available at tvfcu.com.