Applications Due April 15

Organizations across East Central Indiana have a powerful opportunity to bring creative, community-driven projects to life through the READI 2.0 Arts & Culture initiative.

Led by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) in partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission—and supported by Lilly Endowment Inc.—this funding opportunity is designed to strengthen quality of place, expand cultural amenities, and support long-term regional growth.

About READI

READI (Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative) is a statewide effort focused on investing in communities to attract and retain talent, businesses, and residents. Through regional collaboration, READI funding supports projects that enhance livability and drive economic momentum across Indiana.

Focus on Arts & Culture

The READI 2.0 Arts & Culture initiative prioritizes projects that elevate the creative economy and strengthen community identity across our region. Potential project types include:

• Public art and placemaking
• Cultural facilities and creative spaces
• Festivals and community programming
• Arts education and workforce development
• Cultural tourism and storytelling initiatives
• Feasibility and adaptive reuse projects

Projects should demonstrate clear community impact, strong partnerships, and long-term sustainability.

Who Can Apply

Eligible applicants include nonprofits (501(c)(3)), local and regional governments, Main Street and downtown organizations, chambers and economic development groups (501(c)(6)), colleges and universities, and other place-based organizations.

While individuals and for-profit businesses cannot apply directly, they are encouraged to participate as project partners.

Key Dates

• Application Deadline: April 15
• Regional Review: Early May
• State Review: Mid-May
• Award Announcements: Expected July 1

Applications are submitted through the Indiana Arts Commission grant portal.

Aligning with the Regional Vision

All projects should align with Forge ECI’s regional arts and culture strategy, We Make Things Here, which focuses on strengthening creative assets, enhancing quality of place, and supporting long-term regional impact.

Get Started

Organizations are encouraged to begin preparing now and submit applications through the Indiana Arts Commission portal:
👉 https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=indianaarts

Additional resources and guidance can be found at:
👉 www.indianareadi.com/resources

Arts and culture are key drivers of vibrant, thriving communities. We encourage organizations across East Central Indiana to take advantage of this opportunity and help shape the future of our region through creativity, collaboration, and innovation.