Projects wanted for READI 2.0 and Lilly Blight funding

Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at 1:20 PM

By Staff report

Thrive West Central has been awarded funding through the READI 2.0 program and Lilly Endowment, Inc.

The funds are designed to create housing and improvements in West Central Indiana. Applications are being accepted from builders and developers for projects.

Thrive West Central has been awarded approximately $1.65 million in READI 2.0 funding and approximately $5 million in LEI Blight and Rehabilitation funding. READI 2.0 is an infrastructure-focused housing program with awards for roads, utilities, site preparation and more. Lilly blight and rehabilitation funding focuses on revitalizing properties and neighborhoods.

Eligible projects must be independent living units targeting market rate housing. Projects must be located within Clay, Parke, Sullivan, Vermillion, and Vigo counties.

“These programs help us close critical financing gaps so more housing projects can move from plans to construction,” said Ryan Keller, CEO of Thrive West Central. “We can add quality homes faster, strengthen neighborhoods and create the kind of housing options our workforce and families need to stay and grow in West Central Indiana.”

Thrive encourages developers, builders, and community partners to reach out early to discuss ideas, eligibility, and next steps. For more information, contact Thrive’s Director of Housing, Julie Hart, at jhart@thrivewestcentral.com. For full program details, visit thrivewestcentral.com/housing.

Thrive West Central is operating on a timeline for all grant funding to be allocated to developer/builder projects as quickly as possible. All projects must be completed and documented by September 2028.

This is made possible through partnerships with the Wabash River Regional Development Authority and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.