City Launches SustainIndy Community Grant Program

INDIANAPOLIS – Indianapolis' Office of Sustainability is accepting applications for the first round of the SustainIndy Community Grant program.

The program was created to financially support local initiatives that further economic development, ensure environmental integrity and promote social and cultural vibrancy with small grants of up to $10,000.  

Created in partnership with the McKinney Family Green Initiatives Fund, the SustainIndy Community Grant is supported in part by funds raised during the Office of Sustainability’s annual Sustainability Awards Event.  

“The City is thrilled to take the public-private partnership model that has been so successful in Indy and use it in a way that supports sustainability at the grassroots level,” said Melody Park, Director of the City’s Office of Sustainability. “We’re grateful to have the support of the McKinney Family and look forward to working with them to recognize and reward individuals and organizations working to make Indy more sustainable.”

Applications for Round 1 will be accepted through July 30, 2014. Visit www.indy.gov/sustainindygrant to submit the simple, online application.

Proposals for the SustainIndy Community Grant program should address the following:

• Sustainability Principles
• Enhancing quality of life for residents
• Protecting the natural environment
• Strengthening the local economy
• STAR Community Rating System
• Indianapolis participates in the STAR Community Rating System (STAR), the nation’s first framework and certification program for local sustainability. The Rating System encompasses economic, environmental, and social performance measures for both local governments and the broader community.
• The Rating System evaluates seven goal areas, including Built Environment, Climate & Energy, Economy & Jobs, Education, Arts & Community, Equity & Empowerment, Health & Safety and Natural Systems.
• Public - Private Partnerships

The City’s Office of Sustainability and the McKinney Family Foundation will review all proposals, and grants will be awarded approximately four weeks from the proposal submission deadline.

“Sustainability is an evolving concept, and one in which Indy is moving to the forefront,” Kevin McKinney of the McKinney Family Foundation said. “We’re excited to be able to work with the City on this grant program to support innovation around new tools, behavior change, designing programs and integrating programs. “

Following Round 1, proposals can be submitted at any time during the calendar year and will be reviewed quarterly.