Metro Action Opens Funding for Summer Youth Employment Programs

The Metropolitan Action Commission (MAC) is inviting community partners to apply for funding to engage youth in meaningful summer work experiences.

The MAC POWER Youth Summer Employment Program is the agency's flagship youth work initiative. MAC seeks project proposals from Davidson County non-profit organizations to host youth ages 14-15 for project-based experiences. Funding covers materials for the work experience, while MAC provides stipends for participating youth. Proposals are due by January 9, 2026, with up to $50,000 available per program, based on the number of youth served.

POWER-short for Providing Opportunities for Wealth-building and Economic Resilience-was named by youth to reflect their vision for success. This initiative grew from sessions with Davidson County youth who expressed the need for meaningful summer activities and income opportunities as alternatives to less productive options.

"Our MAC POWER Youth program is about more than summer jobs-it's about creating pathways to success," said Director Jamekia Bies. "We want to partner with organizations that share our commitment to helping young people build skills, explore careers, and develop confidence for their future."

Organizations applying for funding should demonstrate integration of career exploration, skill development, and healthy lifestyle activities that prepare Metro Nashville youth for future success.

• Proposal Deadline: January 9, 2026, at 4:30 p.m. Central
• Program Dates: June 1 - July 17, 2026

To access the full funding announcement, visit nashville.gov/mac and click "POWER Youth Funding."

Last summer, MAC awarded 16 grants to community organizations, resulting in over 400 youth ages 14-15 participating in project-based experiences. Combined with employment opportunities for older youth (ages 16-18), nearly 1,000 youth were engaged in summer work experiences.

Organizations interested in employing youth ages 16 and older should contact [email protected] or visit poweryouth.nashville.gov.