Who We Are
In 2021, eight ECI counties (Blackford, Delaware, Fayette, Grant, Henry, Jay, Randolph, and Wayne) developed the Forge Your Path Regional Development Plan as part of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation’s READI initiative.
The plan represents the hard work, goals, and shared aspirations of nearly 400,000 ECI residents and hundreds of organizations and businesses across 67 cities and towns.
Forge ECI is east central Indiana’s regional economic development organization, providing infrastructure and support to promote cohesion across these efforts.
19 Projects
In East Central Indiana, READI is funding a total of 19 projects covering broadband, childcare, infrastructure, arts and culture, recreation, and talent attraction.
Timeline
Regional Kickoff Meeting – July 2021
The region (Blackford, Delaware, Fayette, Grant, Henry, Jay, Randolph, Wayne) was defined and notified the Indiana Economic Development Corporation of their intent to seek funding. The counties began to coordinate the planning process. The READI Governing Body was formed consisting of economic development partners, major employers, and anchor institutions.
Plan Submission – September 2021
The region submitted the Forge Your Path Regional Development Plan to the IEDC.
READI Announcement – December 2021
The IEDC approved an investment of $15 million, contingent on local match, to advance projects in East Central Indiana.
Final Project Selection – May 2022
The READI Governing Body made final selections on the regional projects that will be awarded funding.
Project Administration Process – June 2022
The region began to work with the IEDC and EY to approve projects and allocate funding.
Update – July 2026
To date, the region has disbursed 91% of funding.
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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