Indiana Main Street communities have a chance to get a $5,000 grant. The “Inspire Idea!” competition will provide funding for “inspiring and imaginative downtown revitalization projects,” according to a press release from the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs.
Projects should focus on highly visible changes with measurable results, and must support at least one of the Main Street program’s four key points. OCRA Executive Director Jodi Golden hopes the competition will lead to “improved commercial vitality in rural downtown districts.”
Grant applications are due Friday, June 28. Five finalists will be announced on July 12. The winners of the two $5,000 minimum prizes will be announced during the Great Lakes Main Street Conference in August.
The Main Street program helps communities boost their downtowns, by focusing on economic vitality, effective promotion, quality design, and sustainable organization. It encourages private investment, but also makes designated communities eligible for various grants.
