Center for Rural Innovation at Tennessee Tech University

08/18/2026

What does it mean for a university to be a good neighbor?

In a new Knox News op-ed, Tennessee Tech President Phil Oldham highlights how the university is putting its people, expertise, and resources to work beyond campus, including through Rural Reimagined, which has worked across all 78 of Tennessee’s rural-designated counties.

“From tourism branding and economic impact studies to grant support and community planning, our faculty, staff and students are helping rural communities unlock opportunities they might not otherwise have the resources to pursue.”

We’re proud to see Rural Reimagined highlighted and the incredible work our faculty, staff, and students are doing alongside rural communities across Tennessee.

Read President Oldham’s full piece below.

https://www.knoxnews.com/story/opinion/2026/08/18/opinion-universities-should-make-the-best-neighbors/91341318007/

Projects like Rural Reimagined and Tech Engineering for Kids are making a tangible difference in the lives of Tennesseans, writes Philip B. Oldham.

08/17/2026

We’re headed to 3686! 🎉

TCRI Executive Director Michael Aikens will lead our Partner Popup at Launch Tennessee’s 3686 Entrepreneurship Festival this September in Nashville.

From September 14–16, founders, investors, innovators, and leaders from across the country will come together for three days of conversations, connections, and opportunities designed to move ideas and businesses forward.

If you’re joining us at 3686, be sure to add TCRI’s Partner Popup to your list. We’ll share more details about Michael’s session as we get closer!

Registration and event information: attend3686.com

LaunchTN, The Biz Foundry, Knoxville Entrepreneur Center, Tennessee Advanced Energy Business Council

08/13/2026

Our newest Tennessee Rural Fellows are already looking ahead to the impact they hope to make in their host communities. Take a moment to meet the cohort and hear what they're most excited about as they begin their fellowship journey.

Thank you to TNECD for highlighting these talented fellows!
Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development

04/22/2026

We’re always proud to support amazing community partners like River City Ball 💜

Grateful for the opportunity to work alongside nonprofits across the Upper Cumberland who are making a real impact every day.