We Make Things Here
In 2021, Governor Eric Holcomb launched READI 1.0, allocating $500M to all of Indiana’s 92 counties. 2023 brought READI 2.0 with a focus on Quality of Life, Quality of Place, and Quality of Opportunity. It encouraged regions to include arts and culture initiatives in their plans, to help that sector know how to work proactively with economic development, and to prepare Indiana’s creative economy to be better poised to access future funding.
In January 2024, the Lilly Endowment (LEI) put money behind that piece of the puzzle — a $250M grant with $65M to support arts and culture initiatives that enhance quality of life and build vibrant communities in every region:
- Public art (mural, sculpture, installation, programmable lighting on key asset, artistic community improvement)
- Culturally significant attractions/facilities (museum, performing arts venue, art center/studio complex)
- Art and cultural competitions or festivals with long-term funding commitments to sustain them
- Attraction of nationally and internationally recognized arts and cultural performances to Indiana
- Development of a region’s creatives and creative economy
- Development of visual architectural design elements that are unique to local communities
The Process
The process began with information gathering – desk research for each county, review of existing plans, and conversations with key informants across the region.
A kickoff webinar in late February, introduced the region the project, invited individuals to collaborate in building the Cultural Asset inventory, and ask that they spread the word far and wide.
In April, the consultant team held Community Visioning Sessions in each county. Those sessions asked three fundamental questions:
- What are the characteristics and assets that define your county – that form the backbone of its cultural identity?
- If the county were to adopt and successfully implement a ten-year arts and culture plan, what would be different by 2035? Asked another way, what was their vision for a vibrant arts and culture future?
- Where is there momentum today that could be leveraged to jump-start activity, or challenges that could likewise hinder progress?
With the cultural asset inventory, vision session and desk research results, the team drafted initial goals and strategies then refined them in interviews and focus groups through the summer. The team workshopped the results with a group of economic development, arts and culture leaders to arrive at final vision, goals and strategies.
A public survey was then used to set priorities and test the content one last time before drafting the full plan. By the end of the process, more than 450 individuals had participated, adding their voice to the final product.
Cultural Asset Mapping
By gathering all of the region’s cultural assets in one place, the map helps us — residents, visitors, artists, and local leaders — better understand the depth and breadth of what we offer.
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It reveals connections: between artists and venues, between communities and traditions, between history and modern creativity.
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It supports planning: for community events, tourism, education, public art, and future investment — building on the resources we already have.
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It builds identity & pride: helping us see and celebrate the full tapestry of our region’s people, history, and creative life
December 2025 Plan Launch
We were excited to officially launch our Regional Arts and Culture Plan on December 5! The event highlighted the vision, goals, and key initiatives for supporting arts and culture across our communities. If you weren’t able to attend, you can view the full recording here to catch all the insights and discussions from the launch.
The Plan
We’re proud to share the plan with the region, a roadmap designed to celebrate, strengthen, and connect the creative assets of East Central Indiana. Explore the full plan here: [ECI Arts & Culture Plan] and view the Executive Summary here: [ECI Arts & Culture Plan Executive Summary]
READI 2.0 LEI Project Selection
The READI 2.0 Arts & Culture Initiative application is now officially open.
This initiative, led by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC), supports transformative arts and culture projects that enhance quality of place, strengthen communities, and drive regional vibrancy across East Central Indiana.
We encourage eligible organizations and partners to carefully review all materials before beginning the application process.
👉 Access the IEDC’s Resources Here
Watch the February 10 Webinar
The IEDC and Indiana Arts Commission hosted a webinar on February 10 to walk through the application process and outline key requirements.
👉 Watch the February 10 READI Arts & Culture Webinar
The webinar covers:
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Eligibility criteria
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Program priorities
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Timeline and key deadlines
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Application tips and expectations
We strongly recommend viewing the webinar and reviewing the FAQs before submitting your application.
How to Apply
Applications are being accepted through the IAC portal.
👉 Access the READI Arts & Culture Application Here
Before submitting, applicants should:
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Review eligibility requirements
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Understand program priorities
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Confirm project readiness and matching
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Carefully prepare all required documentation
Taking time to fully review the guidance materials will help ensure your project is positioned for success.
Project Application Workshops
Application Guidance & Resources
As communities across East Central Indiana continue developing strong applications for the READI 2.0 Arts & Culture Initiative, we’re pleased to share additional guidance to support your work.
This resource compiles key insights, common questions, and practical tips gathered through recent workshops and direct project support. Whether you are refining your concept or preparing to submit, this guidance is designed to help you strengthen your application and clearly communicate your project’s impact.
If you have questions or would like additional support, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Contact Us
For more information on East Central Indiana’s READI program, please reach out to Caitlin Hancock at chancock@forgeeci.com.
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