The Indiana Economic Development Corp. is accepting applications for funding from its 2024 Community Collaboration Fund.
The Community Collaboration Fund supports community-led projects focused on entrepreneurial education, connection and acceleration across Indiana. Since its launch in 2023, the program has awarded $500,000 to projects statewide. The IEDC recently allocated an additional $1 million to the program.
“Our team continues to invest in this ecosystem, creating new resources and bolstering support services for current and aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners,” Indiana Secretary of Commerce David Rosenberg said in a press release.
Organizations may apply for grants between $5,000 and $40,000 to support services and programming for entrepreneurs, startups and small businesses.
Proposed projects should target gaps in the organizations’ communities. Projects should support education for entrepreneurs, increase connectivity between entrepreneurs and accelerate an entrepreneur’s journey.
CDFI Friendly South Bend is one of the 16 organizations that received funding through the Community Collaboration Fund. The organization's Capital Coaching program pairs entrepreneurs with financial mentors.
“Because of the support and funding we received through CCF, entrepreneurs across the Region are now able to get hands-on support and guidance on financing options for their business from our industry expert coaches,” said Sam Centellas, executive director of CDFI Friendly South Bend.
The deadline to submit applications is May 3. More information about the program and application process is available here.
The IEDC plans to make grant decisions by July 1. Projects will be selected based on their abilities to fill gaps in the entrepreneurial landscape, work across community boundaries and support traditionally underserved populations.
The Indiana Economic Development Corp. works to drive economic development and help businesses launch, grow and locate in the state. It is governed by a 14-member board chaired by Gov. Eric Holcomb. The IEDC was established in February 2005.
