Applications are now open for micro-grants that will fund community events related to the 2024 solar eclipse.
Organizations in communities smaller than 50,000 in population can apply for up to $2,000 by submitting ideas for eclipse-related events and activities leading up to the April 8, 2024, event. Potential submission categories include “visual or performing arts, placemaking and design, and film and cultural heritage.”
Hannah Jones, an eclipse liaison working at IU’s Center for Rural Engagement, said the grants can be used for a wide variety of events.
“There's so much you can do with that,” she said. “We've heard ideas that are murals that engage with community that are collaborative, to more like Art in the Park events, music in the park, things that are suited to the community's interests, but then also tie into the eclipse as well.”
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The center will be giving away 30 grants to communities throughout the state.
Jones said the grants are a way for the region to capitalize on the once-in-a-lifetime totality event.
“It just happens to be crossing Indiana in 2024, and that's really exciting for rural communities especially,” she said. “It's a great opportunity to explore tourism and engaging with the community and the arts.”
The grants are a part of IU’s Solar Eclipse Initiative, which will provide staff support, resources and outreach for art and culture-focused community activities. Funding for the grants and initiative come from the Simons Foundation and Regional Opportunity Initiative.
The priority deadline for applications is Sept. 1, with the center hosting virtual office hours to assist applicants on a drop-in basis from 2-3 p.m. on Wednesdays in August.
Read more: Center for Rural Engagement offers micro-grants for eclipse-related activities
