The Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) in conjunction with crowdfunding-company Patronicity facilitate the CreatINg Places program. CreatINg Places employs a donation and reward-based method of crowdfunding called “crowdgranting”. Through this model, citizens actively support projects and activities through web-based donations which, if the fundraising goal is reached within a set time, are matched by IHCDA. CreatINg Places aims to generate the public's involvement in the selection of creative improvements within their own communities, provide funding to see the project through completion, and instill community pride.

To visit the Patronicity page and view past projects, visit the CreatINg Places webpage.

Eligible Applicants and Projects

The CreatINg Places program is available to projects located in Indiana communities or neighborhoods which contain a traditional downtown or traditional neighborhood commercial node. Non-profit entities (with 501c3 or 501c4 status) and Local Units of Government are eligible to apply.

Projects may include but are not limited to:

• Streetscape beautification & walkability projects
• Playgrounds (preferences for inclusive and accessible spaces with clear signage about public use)
• Public plaza development/activation
• Access to public amenities (river walks, canoe livery/launches, pier enhancements, etc.)
• Farmer’s markets, community kitchens, maker's and incubator spaces, or other pop-up retail
• Park creation or improvements
• Bike & pedestrian pathways
• Community theater rehabilitation (community or non-profit)
• Public space enhancements (wayfinding signage, public Wi-Fi, local branding, interactive educational components, etc.)
• Event implementation
• Other projects that activate public space or a community place may be proposed and considered on a case-by-case basis

Grant Dollars

Eligible projects must have a minimum total development cost of $10,000, where the recipient will receive $5,000 in IHCDA matching funds should they successfully raise $5,000 through Patronicity.com. IHCDA will provide matching grant funds up to $50,000 per project.

Program Guidelines

Click here for more information - updated June 28, 2024

Contact

For more information about CreatINg Places, please email Meagan Heber at mheber@ihcda.in.gov or Bridget Anderson at Bridget@patronicity.com.