Portage-based Northwest Indiana Forum is seeking READI 2.0 grant funding proposals by March 29.
The Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative is a state initiative that promotes regional development. The program invests in projects that foster innovation, create jobs and enhance quality of life.
The Northwest Indiana Forum is seeking proposals for projects that align with the goals of READI 2.0.
Additional submission opportunities will be available leading up to the Indiana Economic Development Corp.’s award announcement in April. The IEDC is the administrator of the $500 million READI 2.0 grant approved through the Indiana General Assembly in 2022.
The Northwest Indiana Forum applied for READI 2.0 funding in February of 2023. The maximum award amount is $75 million.
The forum received $50 million in funding from READI 1.0. The funds generated over $700 million in investment. The grant funded 38 projects impacting infrastructure, business development and marketing, entrepreneurship and innovation, talent and placemaking in Northwest Indiana.
“The success of READI 1.0 projects is a testament to the dedication and collaboration of our region,” said Heather Ennis, Northwest Indiana Forum president and CEO, in a press release. “We are excited to leverage READI 2.0 dollars to continue to create greater opportunities in Northwest Indiana.”
The Northwest Indiana Forum promotes economic development and retention of jobs in the Region. Its mission is to increase the per capita income in Lake, Porter, La Porte, Starke, Jasper, Newton and Pulaski counties. The forum is funded by over 140 investor organizations and grants.
Learn more about READI 2.0 proposal requirements here.
