supporters

By policy, Knox Makers™ has always been an entirely self-supporting community. We are not reliant on the ongoing largess of any other organization, company, or agency for our operating budget. We are, however, deeply grateful for the financial support we receive through grants and donations — support that enables us to provide our members with access to ever-greater tooling and facilities.

American Rescue Plan Renewal Grant

Like so many organizations, Knox Makers™ suffered financial setbacks during the COVID-19 epidemic. In 2022, Knoxville’s Arts & Culture Alliance helped us recoup those losses by awarding us an American Rescue Plan Renewal Grant, which allowed us to expand our capabilities with

computer-controlled embroidery machine and accessories
two welding machines
computer-controlled wood router
large format inkjet printer
basic stained glass tools

In 2023, the Arts & Cultural Alliance extended that support into Phase Two of the grant. These funds will enable us to further expand with

large, heavy-duty 3D printer
blacksmithing forge
handheld plasma cutter
belt grinder
basic jewelry making tools
diamond ring saw
dye sublimation printer
heat transfer press

Ann and Steve Bailey Opportunity Grant

In 2018, interest in learning and practicing traditional blacksmithing spiked among Knox Makers™ community members. Knoxville’s Arts and Cultural Alliance supported our development of this capability by awarding us an Ann and Steve Bailey Opportunity Grant. This grant was one of three that underwrote our purchase of architectural plans for a pole barn as well as the necessary construction materials.

East Tennessee Foundation Arts Fund Grant

In 2018, interest in learning and practicing traditional blacksmithing spiked among Knox Makers™ community members. The East Tennessee Foundation supported our development of this capability by awarding us a grant from their Arts Fund. This grant was one of three that underwrote our purchase of architectural plans for a pole barn as well as the necessary construction materials.

Aslan Foundation micro grant

In 2018, interest in learning and practicing traditional blacksmithing spiked among Knox Makers™ community members. The Aslan Foundation supported our development of this capability by awarding us a micro grant. This grant was one of three that underwrote our purchase of architectural plans for a pole barn as well as the necessary construction materials.

City of Knoxville Community Agency Grant

To prevent Knox Makers™ classes from being disrupted by the noise of our large power tools, we found it necessary to construct a soundproof wall segregating it from the rest of the workshop. The City of Knoxville supported this effort through a Community Agency Grant, enabling us to schedule classes frequently while permitting community members to use the workshop freely.