The Indiana Economic Development Corp. board of directors has approved 17 READI projects.

The move represents the first $131 million investment from the $250 million Lilly Endowment award. The funds support READI projects that will enhance efforts to improve quality of place and life in communities across Indiana.

The projects will transform vacant and blighted properties into productive assets—housing, commercial districts, community hubs—while leveraging private and local investment through the state’s Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative. Together, they unlock over $1.6 billion in total investment across 12 regions.

“Indiana’s greatest strength is its people, and READI is proof that when communities lead, real transformation follows,” Governor Mike Braun said in a press release. “These Lilly Endowment investments are not just cleaning up blight—they’re opening doors to new housing, jobs and opportunities that will keep more Hoosiers living and thriving here at home. We’re building on what works: region-owned growth, supported by the state, to create lasting impact for every corner of Indiana.”

Projects were selected based on their potential for economic impact, community benefit, local match, scale and creativity. Future projects will continue to include diverse uses such as infill housing, brownfield redevelopment, office-to-residential conversions and district creation for both rural and urban communities.

“The READI investment in the Gary Blight Elimination Initiative marks a turning point for our city,” Mayor Eddie Melton, City of Gary, said. “This effort tackles long-standing challenges while opening the door to new opportunities for revitalization and economic growth. It reflects our shared regional commitment to not only strengthen Gary, but to build a safer, stronger and more vibrant Northwest Indiana.”

A full listing of approved projects can be found here.