From Grand Challenges to Thriving Communities

A hub for locating UT resources, people, stories and understanding the connected web of some of Tennessee’s most important issues.

Three images of people and places interconnected with UT orange circles

We cannot look at Grand Challenges and not see how there’s so much interconnectedness that goes on from one to the other.

Alicia Maya Donaldson, Program Director and Professor, UT Martin Social Work Program

What are Grand Challenges?

Grand Challenges are complex, interconnected, large-scale problems that create uncertain futures.

By harnessing the collective power of human relationships, research, science, technology and imagination, UT and its partners are aiming to create a future where every Tennessean can thrive. To do so, we are focusing initial efforts in three key areas of the state.

See how these Grand Challenges are connected.

Get Involved

Uncover the innovative UT programs, projects and experts driving progress in Tennessee’s Grand Challenges. Tap into funding and collaboration opportunities that are fueling the state’s next wave of growth.

  • Find UT programs, projects and people engaged in Grand Challenge work.

  • We are committed to supporting and collaborating to bring about a brighter future for all Tennesseans

Stories from Across the State


Join Us in Tackling the State’s Grand Challenges

As we embark on the journey of tackling Tennessee’s most complex, large-scale and interconnected problems, we invite you to join us by helping share the stories we experience along the way.