Communities across Wayne County are getting a new opportunity to invest in their downtown districts through the launch of the READI Downtown Revitalization Grant Program, a competitive funding initiative designed to accelerate redevelopment, support local businesses, and create new housing opportunities.

Announced by the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) of Wayne County, the program is funded through Indiana’s Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI) 2.0, made possible by Lilly Endowment Inc., along with Wayne County and Consolidated EDIT funds. Together, these resources are expected to leverage nearly $17 million in total public and private investment throughout the county.

The Downtown Revitalization Grant Program builds upon the momentum generated through previous community development efforts, including the Hoosier Enduring Legacy Program (HELP), which demonstrated strong demand for investment in Wayne County’s downtown corridors. By providing financial support for redevelopment projects, the program aims to strengthen commercial districts while preserving the unique character that makes each community distinct.

Eligible applicants include commercial property owners, for-profit businesses, and property tax-paying nonprofit organizations located within designated downtown districts in Boston, Cambridge City, Centerville, Dublin, East Germantown, Fountain City, Greens Fork, Hagerstown, Milton, Mount Auburn, Richmond, and Spring Grove.

Grant awards are available for projects with a minimum investment of $20,000, with applicants eligible to request up to $200,000 in funding through a 75/25 matching structure. A wide range of projects may qualify, including façade improvements, upper-story residential development, commercial rehabilitation, accessibility upgrades, and other investments that enhance the vitality of downtown commercial districts.

An additional benefit of the program is its look-back provision, which allows eligible projects completed or initiated after August 1, 2024, to be considered for funding. This feature recognizes the investments already being made by property owners and businesses while encouraging continued redevelopment activity.

According to Valerie Shaffer, president of the EDC of Wayne County, revitalized downtowns play a critical role in creating vibrant and connected communities.

“The continued revitalization of our downtowns is essential to building thriving, connected communities,” said Shaffer. “This program will help preserve the character of our city and towns while encouraging private investment, supporting local businesses, creating new housing opportunities, and strengthening the economic vitality of communities across Wayne County.”

Beyond improving individual properties, the program is intended to generate broader economic impacts by stimulating private investment, reducing commercial vacancies, preserving historic assets, expanding housing opportunities, and enhancing quality of place throughout Wayne County.

The first application round opens June 8 and closes July 27, providing property owners, businesses, and nonprofit organizations an opportunity to secure funding for transformative projects that will contribute to the long-term success of their communities.

For program guidelines, eligibility maps, frequently asked questions, and application materials, visit whywaynecounty.com/downtown-grant.

As communities across East Central Indiana continue investing in their downtowns, programs like this demonstrate the power of strategic partnerships and regional investment to create vibrant places where businesses can grow, residents can thrive, and visitors are welcomed.

About the Economic Development Corporation of Wayne County

The Economic Development Corporation of Wayne County (EDC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to leading business and community development efforts in Wayne County, Indiana, by attracting new investment, retaining and expanding existing businesses, and improving the county’s quality of place.