NASHVILLE (AP) — State officials say six Tennessee cities will each receive $50,000 grants to encourage business growth in their downtown areas.

Economic and Community Development Commissioner Randy Boyd said Tuesday that the Tennessee Main Street Entrepreneur Grants will be used to provide work space for companies and training for entrepreneurs in the downtown commercial districts of Bristol, Cleveland, Columbia, Jackson, Morristown and Savannah.

For example, the Jackson Downtown Development Corporation will create three new retail storefronts on vacant lots by using repurposed shipping containers.

Amy New, assistant commissioner for rural development, says flourishing downtowns provide a sense of pride in communities, spur tourism and promote entrepreneurship.