Youth program accreditation in Tennessee
A public signal that your youth program is vetted on facilitator quality, safety, and outcomes — with a badge Tennessee parents and corporate funders can verify in one click.
Taking the Growth Mindset pledge costs your organization nothing — no dues, no fee. Programs accredited before launch are first in line for subsidized enrollments, which means kids who couldn't afford your program last summer can show up to it this one. See what's coming to Tennessee.
Free to apply
One fee, both tiers
1×/yr, then $25
Stay in good standing
Baseline accreditation. You've submitted your foundational documents and a board has reviewed them.
Member tier plus published outcomes and certified Growth Mindset facilitators on staff.
Elite tier plus a reviewed program curriculum (structure, focus, goals, engagement potential).
What it costs
- Member Provider application: Free
- Elite + Best in Youth Enrichment unlock: $175 (regularly $250) — one fee, both tiers
- Appeal of awarded tier: Free once per year, then $25
- Annual renewal: $125
What you submit
- Organization profile + FEIN
- Liability insurance certificate
- Background-check policy
- 1-on-1 contact policy
- Logo
- Program curriculum (Best in Youth Enrichment tier only)
Ready to apply?
Pay your application fee and create your provider profile in one flow.
Start your applicationQuestions, answered.
Can Tennessee organizations apply before the branch launches?+
Yes. Accreditation is reviewed by our national board, so your program can be vetted and badged now — and accredited programs are first in line for subsidized enrollments as the Tennessee branch opens.
How long does the review take?+
Typically 3–5 business days after all your documents are submitted. The board reviews complete applications, not partial ones.
What if I don't qualify for the top tier?+
You're reviewed for the highest tier you qualify for. If you don't get Best in Youth Enrichment, you'll still receive Elite or Member — no separate application needed.
Do I have to submit everything at once?+
No. Create your profile and submit documents as you gather them. The board reviews once everything's in, so you can work at your own pace.
What if my application is denied?+
You get one free appeal per year. Additional appeals are $25. The board will tell you exactly what to fix before re-submitting.
Is the application fee refundable?+
The fee covers the board review process and is non-refundable. The Member Provider tier is free to apply — you only pay if you want to be reviewed for Elite or Best.
What happens after I'm approved?+
You receive a numbered, verifiable badge and trustmark certificate you can display on your website, print for parents' nights, and share with funders. Your badge goes live immediately.