- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -
Contact: Josh Duke Josh@VisitHendricksCounty.com
DANVILLE, IN (Aug. 3, 2026) – Applications are now being accepted for Visit Hendricks County’s inaugural round of funding through The PLACES Initiative, a new opportunity designed to support projects that enhance the county for residents and visitors.
PLACES, which stands for Powering Local Authentic Community Experiences & Spaces, supports projects that align with Visit Hendricks County's Destination Defined plan. The community-driven strategic plan focuses on stewarding a destination that attracts visitors while also being a great place to live. The PLACES Initiative follows in the footsteps of the organization’s For Real brand and the CARE to Connect program, both of which launched in 2026.
"We want to invest in the places and experiences that inspire people to visit and give residents even more reasons to enjoy where they live," said Jaime Bohler Smith, Executive Director/CEO of Visit Hendricks County. "The PLACES Initiative reflects that commitment by helping bring those projects to life."
Eligible applicants include for-profit and nonprofit organizations/businesses, municipalities and government entities. The project must be in Hendricks County, and collaborative applications are encouraged.
The projects must improve the visitor experience while benefiting the community through public art, beautification efforts, accessibility improvements, wayfinding enhancements, recreation amenities, cultural programming, placemaking initiatives, agritourism projects, festivals and events and other efforts.
Applications are due by Oct. 9, with grant awards expected to be announced in November. The amount of funds available in this cycle is $200,000. Funding amounts can vary based on project scope, community impact, project readiness and alignment with Visit Hendricks County's destination development priorities. In some instances, matching funds could be required.
Complete program guidelines, eligibility requirements and the online application form are available at VisitHendricksCounty.com/Grants.