Our Mission
Middle Tennessee Research Institute advances innovative research and education, improves healthcare programs that benefit our nation's Veterans, and provides outstanding support and advocacy to the research, education, and training endeavors of the Tennessee Valley Healthcare System.
Our Vision
To improve the well-being of Veterans through collaborative research and education endeavors with academic affiliates, industry partners, and community sponsors within the Middle Tennessee region.
Who We Are
The Middle Tennessee Research Institute (MTRI) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit research and education foundation (NPC) that supports the VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System (TVHS).
MTRI provides expert administration and stewardship of research and education grants and contracts, serving as a flexible funding partner to advance the VA’s mission. Through our work, we help advance Veteran healthcare research and educational programs, bringing innovative treatments and learning opportunities to improve the health and well-being of our Veterans across Tennessee and nationwide.
Background: Non-Profit Research and Education Corporations (NPCs)
In 1988, Congress authorized the creation of non-profit research and education corporations (NPCs) to support the Department of Veterans Affairs’ research and education programs (38 USC §§7361–7366).
NPCs enable VA medical centers to manage both federal and non-federal research funding efficiently. Oversight and guidance are provided through VA Handbook 1200.17, which interprets the authorizing statute and outlines operating standards.
Middle Tennessee Research Institute is one of about 80 NPCs nationwide working in partnership with VA medical centers to enhance Veteran-focused research and education.
History of MTRI
Following the passage of Title 38, two independent non-profits were established in central Tennessee:
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Alvin C. York DVA Research and Education Foundation in Murfreesboro
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Nashville Research Institute in Nashville
After operating independently for nearly a decade, the two organizations merged in 2000 to form the Middle Tennessee Research Institute (MTRI).
Since then, the Institute has continued to build on its strong legacy of supporting research and education that benefits Veterans across Tennessee and beyond.
Part of a National Network Advancing Veterans' Research
Middle Tennessee Research Institute is a proud member of the National Association of Veterans’ Research and Education Foundations (NAVREF), a 501(c)(3) membership organization supporting more than 80 VA-affiliated NPCs nationwide.
NAVREF provides resources, training, and collaboration opportunities that enable member organizations to strengthen their capacity to advance Veteran health through research and education.
For additional information about NAVREF, please visit www.navref.org.