EDC Launches Downtown Revitalization Grant Program to Accelerate Commercial District Investments

​RICHMOND, Ind. (June 8, 2026) — The Economic Development Corporation (EDC) of Wayne County 
has launched the READI Downtown Revitalization Grant Program, a competitive funding initiative aimed 
at driving commercial redevelopment, housing creation, and private investment across Wayne County's 
downtown districts.

Backed by funding from Indiana's Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI) 
2.0 through Lilly Endowment Inc. funding, along with Wayne County and Consolidated EDIT funds, the 
program is expected to leverage nearly $17 million in total public and private investment.

The first application round opens June 8 and closes July 27. Eligible applicants include commercial 
property owners, for-profit businesses, and property tax-paying nonprofit organizations located within 
designated downtown districts in Boston, Cambridge City, Centerville, Dublin, East Germantown, 
Fountain City, Greens Fork, Hagerstown, Milton, Mount Auburn, Richmond, and Spring Grove.

Grant awards are available for projects with a minimum investment of $20,000. Applicants may request
up to $200,000 for projects and require a 75/25 match. Eligible projects include façade improvements, 
upper-story residential development, commercial rehabilitation, accessibility upgrades, and other 
investments that strengthen commercial districts. A look-back period to Aug. 1, 2024, allows eligible 
completed and ongoing projects to be considered for funding.

The program builds on the momentum of Wayne County's previous downtown revitalization efforts 
through the Hoosier Enduring Legacy Program (HELP), which generated strong demand for 
redevelopment funding across the county.

"The continued revitalization of our downtowns is essential to building thriving, connected communities," 
said Valerie Shaffer, president of the EDC of Wayne County. "This program will help preserve the 
character of our city and towns while encouraging private investment, supporting local businesses, 
creating new housing opportunities, and strengthening the economic vitality of communities across 
Wayne County."

The initiative is designed to stimulate private investment, support housing development, reduce 
commercial vacancies, preserve historic assets, and enhance quality of place throughout Wayne County.

Program guidelines, eligibility maps, FAQs, and application materials are available at 
whywaynecounty.com/downtown-grant