Staff Reports
Indiana Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch announced Tuesday the official launch of an arts, cultural and Destination Marketing Organization grant totaling $10 million in financial assistance.
The funding for this grant program comes from the CARES Act. In a partnership, the Indiana Destination Development Corporation and Indiana Arts Commission will provide economic support to local organizations whose normal operations have been disrupted due to COVID-19.
“The arts and cultural sector adds vibrancy and depth to Hoosiers’ lives and is a significant factor in the health of Indiana’s tourism economy,” Crouch said. “We developed this program to assist and preserve the many Hoosier destinations, events and programs that help enhance the quality of life here in our great state.”
For guidelines on eligibility, visit in.gov/arts/2567.htm.
There also will be a webinar at 2:30 p.m. Monday to discuss the grant program and answer questions. If interested in attending, register through the link on the above website.
“In cities, towns and counties both urban and rural, big and small, the arts play a vital role in economy, quality of life and community identity,” said Lewis Ricci, executive director of the IAC. “We are thrilled that this important and timely program will help preserve the arts and cultural community assets that our citizens value.”
Elaine Bedel, secretary and chief executive officer of the IDDC, said Destination Marketing Organizations play a critical role in telling Indiana’s authentic story and promoting the quality of life assets that all Hoosiers enjoy.
“These organizations are at the center of community life and are critical to the state’s economic recovery,” she said. “We look forward to supporting their efforts through this grant program.”
All applications must be received by 4 p.m. Sept. 8. The application period begins Friday. Only applications submitted via the IAC’s online system will be accepted, except in the case of Americans with Disabilities Act accessibility accommodations.
To access the application in the online system, visit in.gov/arts/apply beginning Friday.
Upon receiving a fully executed grant agreement, the grantee will receive 100% of the grant award.