The ROWforward Partnership Development Grant program seeks new neighborhood-based partners interested in helping shape the expansion of the Reconnecting to our Waterways collective impact project.  Selected groups interested in building a long-term relationship with the ROW partners can receive up to $5,000 in rapid project or event support by committing to help build, test, and perfect ROW’s new model for community engagement.

Funding may support a wide variety of activities, including physical projects and community programs or events. Apply anytime; all grant-supported activities must be completed by June 15, 2023. Five to eight awards will be made; no cash match required.

In exchange for the grant, your group will participate with ROW for up to 12 months and help develop and test ideas related to building a model for organizing a successful community group that is diverse and multi-faceted, resident-led, and action-oriented. This participation could include 3 to 4 in-person or Zoom conversations, reviewing and providing feedback on written materials, and implementing community organizing ideas in your neighborhood. This commitment will not require financial resources but will require time and likely volunteer activities in your neighborhood.

Eligible Activities

Any physical project, community program, or community event that improves the quality of life or ecology in a neighborhood near a waterway.

• This includes activities that address arts and culture, ecology, economics, education, connectivity, and/or health and wellness.
• Examples of projects could include native plantings, invasive plant removal, educational workshops, storytelling signage, community festivals or bike rides, school programs, public art, and many more!
• All activities must be open and accessible to the general public.
• If a physical project, the project will need the approval of a property owner (if on private property) or the City of Indianapolis (if on public property).
• If a physical project, the project should have a plan in place for its continued maintenance, such as watering and weeding plants, replacing mulch, refreshing paint or removing graffiti, etc.

Eligible Areas

Map of Eligible Areas Here

• The stakeholder group and activities must be within or substantially connected to a neighborhood and waterway within these areas.
• The stakeholder group and activities should not significantly overlap with an existing ROW waterway committee area (shown in eligible areas map).

Who can apply?

Any formal or informal group of individuals and partners may apply.

• The group does not need to be incorporated or a legal entity, but it must include a sponsor that is an incorporated entity like a business, non-profit organization, place of worship, or community association that has the ability to accept and track funds.
• The group should include at least two different organizations, businesses, or families.
• The group may include members of an existing waterway committee, but should also include new partners focused on a new area of the waterway.

Learn more here and apply here.