GPT’s 2025/2026 PUUSH Initiative: Advancing Health Equity Through Neighborhood Innovation Zones (NIZs)

A Health Equity-Driven Vision from Grow Partnership Tennessee

Grow Partnership Tennessee (GPT) is launching its Neighborhood Innovation Zones (NIZs) under the 2025/2026 PUUSH initiative—a bold strategy to blend public health and economic empowerment in underserved communities. NIZs integrate culturally competent health education with business development training, empowering residents to launch and sustain health-focused businesses. These zones will serve as local hubs for wellness, entrepreneurship, and revitalization.

What NIZs Offer

NIZs will connect residents and entrepreneurs with:

• Business Development: Funding, mentorship, and technical support for health-based enterprises.

• Workforce Training: CHW certification and culturally responsive health workforce development.

• Community Health Projects: Safer neighborhoods and wellness initiatives like the MLK Healthy Corridor in Downtown East.

Smart Growth Through a Lifecycle Model

NIZs follow a strategic path to sustainable impact:

Ideation → Planning → Launch → Growth → Sustainability

Each phase builds on the last to ensure long-term success through wellness-driven economics.

Next Steps

• Advisory Committee: GPT will form a leadership group over the next 18–24 months to pilot the first NIZ, shaping a scalable, community-based model.

• Collaborative Development: GPT is partnering with organizations like DRIVE to co-lead this systems-change effort for healthier, more resilient communities.