INDIANAPOLIS (Jan. 14, 2019) – Today, the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs announced that the Quick Impact Placebased Grant Program, a matching grant program designed to fund creative projects that spark community-wide conversations, is open for applications.
“This grant allows for communities to be innovative and creative when transforming a gathering place or bring energy to an underutilized community asset,” said Jodi Golden, executive director of OCRA. “Typically taking a lighter, quicker, cheaper approach, these projects although small in stature have tremendous impact across a community.”
Project funding ranges from $2,500 to $5,000, with a 50 percent match by cash or in-kind required. Eligible applicants can include community or civic organizations, local units of government or schools.
Golden said that eligible projects should be transformational and have a positive impact for the community and existing and underutilized assets should include a new or additional use. Examples of eligible projects include, but are not limited to:
- Storefront transformations;
- Pop-up shop and gathering spots;
- Shipping container repurpose; and
- Project-based learning.
The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs encourages unique and locally inspired projects. Successful applications will demonstrate community collaboration, partnership capacity and meaningful public benefits. Applicants are encouraged to contact their respective community liaison to discuss project eligibility and competitiveness.
A new addition to the program includes an educational component, in which the applicant utilizes youth involvement in the intended project. Youth organizations who wish to fulfill learning requirements are encouraged to partner with an eligible applicant and will receive bonus points.
An informational video will be released on Wednesday, Jan. 16, that explains the program and new application process. Applications are due by 4 p.m. ET, Friday, March 8, 2019. Applications received after 4 p.m. ET, or paper copies will not be accepted. Funded projects will be announced on Thursday, April 25. For more information, click here.
