1:1 with Indiana Arts Commission (Arts & Culture Initiative Grant)

Description

The Evansville Region has unveiled its first Arts & Culture Plan, developed with support from a planning grant through the Indiana Economic Development Corporation’s (IEDC) READI 2.0 program. This plan positions the region to pursue competitive project funding through the IEDC’s $65 million statewide Arts & Culture Initiative, launching in early 2026.

The READI 2.0 Arts & Culture Initiative supports arts and culture planning and projects across Indiana’s 13 READI regions. Administered by the IEDC in partnership with the Indiana Arts Commission and made possible through support from Lilly Endowment Inc., the initiative represents a significant investment in community vibrancy and quality of place.

Individuals and organizations across the Evansville Region will be eligible to apply for funding through a process managed by the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC). Proposed projects will be evaluated based on their alignment with the region’s Arts & Culture Plan. IAC informational webinar slides are available here.

Applications will be accepted until April 15, 2026.

READI 2.0 Arts & Culture Initiative

• Guidelines
• Regional Arts & Culture Plans - Click on "Arts & Culture" then "Region Plans" to access
• Review Process
• FAQs
• Apply here

If you have questions about the LEI Arts application, we’re offering one-on-one in-person appointments with Miah Michaelsen, Executive Director of Indiana Arts Commission, to provide guidance and clarification.

Meetings will be held in-person in 30-minute increments on March 12th between 10:00am-4:00pm at Innovation Point. If you would like to reserve a time, please sign up using the link below:

IAC Meeting Time

These sessions are intended to help answer questions and ensure you feel confident before submitting your application. Space is limited, so we encourage you to register early.