Submissions Open For Stellar Communities
The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs has begun the process for the 2019 Stellar Communities Program. Communities looking to earn the designation are now able to submit letters of intent for the program, which provides funding to designees for their revitalization plans.
Last year, the program was switched to a regional effort instead of awarding the designation to single communities. The program works with communities to develop regional development plans that promote local and regional partnerships and increase economic development.
"I want to encourage all communities and counties to apply and especially those with past Stellar Designees and Finalists," said Jodi Golden, executive director of OCRA. "We received positive feedback from the 2018 finalists that the regional approach allowed for more collaborative possibilities and growth opportunities and we’re excited to continue that in 2019."
OCRA says the letter of intent submission process is completed through an online grant management system and letters of intent are due by April 5 at 4:00 p.m. You can learn more about the process by clicking here.
In December, OCRA announced the 2018 winners, which include the Health and Heritage region, comprised of Greenfield, Fortville and Hancock County, and the New Allen Alliance, comprised of Grabill, Leo-Cedarville, Monroeville, New Haven, Woodburn and Allen County. Each designee received $6.5 million in funding from various agencies, which the potential for up to $2 million in additional funding each.