TSET Launches Historic Grant Opportunity to Transform Health for Oklahomans
OKLAHOMA CITY – In honor of its 25th anniversary, the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET) is launching TSET Legacy Grants, a historic funding opportunity aimed at addressing Oklahoma’s leading causes of death: cancer and cardiovascular disease. Opening April 15, this initiative will support large-scale, multiyear projects aimed at preventing disease and enhancing quality of life, particularly in rural and underserved communities by strengthening health and improving access to healthcare.
These grants are designed to make a lasting impact on public health in Oklahoma. By funding sustainable initiatives, TSET Legacy Grants seek to reduce mortality rates, close health care data gaps and promote prevention and early intervention strategies for cancer and cardiovascular disease. This is a critical step in achieving TSET’s mission to transform Oklahoma’s health landscape.
"TSET Legacy Grants are a transformative step toward a healthier Oklahoma," said Julie Bisbee, executive director of TSET. "For 25 years, TSET has worked to prevent and reduce the leading causes of death in our state. This initiative builds on that legacy by equipping organizations with resources to implement evidence-based solutions that will improve health for generations to come."
Public institutions, public entities such as county/local government and public-school districts, state agencies, 501(c)(3) nonprofits and tribal entities can apply. Grants must be a minimum of $3 million per project and should last between one to three years. The grants will support one-time, large-scale projects. Grant terms will begin in January 2026.
Applications are due by noon on Monday, June 16. Organizations interested in applying must submit a detailed proposal outlining the scope of their project, target populations and measurable health goals. Applications will go through a rigorous review process, including presentations to the TSET Board of Directors, before final decisions are made in November 2025.
Projects demonstrating sustainability and broad community support will be prioritized. Matching funds are encouraged but not required. TSET anticipates investing up to $150 million in TSET Legacy Grant projects that will have an immediate impact on the state. TSET will host a free webinar on April 15 for more details about the grant.
"TSET remains committed to improving the health of Oklahomans. With this funding opportunity, we are seeking projects that will bring transformation over the next three years,” said TSET Board Chair Kenneth Rowe. “By addressing the root causes of preventable disease, we can help create healthier communities across Oklahoma." For more information on the TSET Legacy Grants and how to apply, visit ok.gov/tset/funding.
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The Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET) serves as a partner and bridge builder for organizations shaping a healthier future for all Oklahomans. TSET provides leadership at the intersections of health by working with local coalitions and initiatives across the state, cultivating innovative and life-changing research and working across public and private sectors to develop, support, implement and evaluate creative strategies to take advantage of emerging opportunities to improve the public’s health. To learn more, go to Oklahoma.gov/TSET.
TSET – Better Lives Through Better Health