The Great 38 exists to make regional possibility easier to see, easier to support, and harder to overlook.
What it is
A regional platform for understanding, connecting, and supporting the people, places, institutions, and opportunities shaping the future of Middle Tennessee’s 38-county region. Part public directory, part impact dashboard, part storytelling platform, and part invitation to participate.
Why 38 counties
The 38-county Middle Tennessee region holds an enormous range of communities, economies, and identities. Too often, the region’s assets and needs are scattered across conversations, spreadsheets, local networks, and one-off moments. The Great 38 brings those signals into one shared platform so communities can be seen, supported, and connected.
Who it serves
Residents, local organizations, civic leaders, businesses, schools, faith communities, entrepreneurs, and creatives across the region — alongside funders, sponsors, partners, researchers, and media from inside and outside the region.
How data is handled
Information on The Great 38 is sourced from county leads, community submissions, and verified public records. Every record is labeled by its source and status: verified, submitted, needs review, or sample. We do not publish private submission details, and we contact submitters before highlighting their work publicly.
How to participate
Register as someone in the region or as a supporter, submit a story or opportunity, correct a county profile, or join an upcoming convening.