New Grant Program To Help Indiana Main Street Organizations

Grants of up to $5,000 will be awarded to at least forty Main Street programs.

(Indianapolis, Ind.) - A new program has been launched to provide operational support for Main Street programs across the state of Indiana.

Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch and the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs made this announcement today. 

“Downtowns are the heartbeats of our rural communities, and we recognize the significant impact our businesses and organizations have faced throughout this pandemic,” said Lt. Gov. Crouch. “Indiana Main Street organizations continue to serve as vital resources, particularly in our small and rural areas, and this is yet another way we can support them in their efforts.”

Lt. Governor Crouch and OCRA hope to provide support to Indiana Main Street organizations that provide leadership and many activities to the public. Special attention will be given to the organizations significantly impacted by the pandemic. 

“Supporting our Main Street organizations who may be struggling financially due to COVID-19 is crucial for or Indiana downtown corridors,” said Matt Crouch, Interim Executive Director of OCRA. “By providing this grant, these organizations will be able to continue to provide direct assistance to local small businesses who need the help as they adjust business models and follow CDC Guidelines.”

Grants reaching up to $5,000 will be given to a minimum of forty Main Street programs based on demonstration of the following:

• A designated Indiana Main Street with an operational history of at least two consecutive years;
• Demonstrated impact of COVID-19 on their Main Street community;
• Provided explanation of how a reduction of funds has impacted the program’s activities;
• Explanation of how funds will assist the organization and what future funding will support;
• Demonstrated operating costs in excess of $10,000;
• A current work plan; and
• rural/urban representation of applicants.

Eligible expenses could include salaries, administrative/consultant fees, space/equipment rental or staff development and training.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis, and can be submitted at any time starting today. Eligible applications will be reviewed and awarded by OCRA on a first come, first serve basis until funds are gone.

Upon receiving a fully executed grant agreement, the grantee will receive 100 percent of the grant award.

Applications are now open. Only online applications will be accepted.

More program information can be found at www.in.gov/ocra/3016.htm.