Funding Priorities
The RDA's enabling statute outlines four priority areas: expansion of the Gary Chicago International Airport, creation of an integrated rail and bus surface transportation network, transit oriented development (TOD) and redevelopment of the Lake Michigan Shoreline.
Eligibility
Capital projects related to the Gary Chicago International Airport, bus and rail transportation, TOD and shoreline redevelopment are welcome. Requests for donations or charitable contributions may be meritorious, but due to the RDA's limited funding the Board feels that the priorities set by the General Assembly must take precedence.
Click here to be directed to the Application Process
RDA Grants - Development Catalyst Grant
The Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority (RDA) is investing directly in the communities that make this region work. Through the Development Catalyst Grant, the RDA is committing $250,000 to help local governments in Lake and Porter Counties build the tools, plans, and frameworks needed to attract quality development, expand the local tax base, and connect local priorities to the region's long-term vision.
This program accelerates implementation of the RDA’s 2025 Strategic Plan and supports Transit-Oriented Development in established Transit Development Districts. Projects in station areas, brownfield corridors, lakefront communities, future commuter rail expansion, and airport-adjacent zones align directly with the RDA’s strategic focus areas. Communities outside TDD boundaries are encouraged to apply and can demonstrate alignment through other regional priorities.
WHAT THE GRANT FUNDS
Due diligence is a competitive advantage. The communities that win investment show up prepared, with updated zoning, market-ready sites, a development pitch, and a clear story to tell investors and site selectors. This program funds the work that makes that possible. Eligible activities include:
- Policy & Regulatory Updates: Zoning code modernization, comprehensive plan amendments, TIF and incentive frameworks, design guidelines for priority development areas.
- Marketing & Recruitment Materials: Development pitch kits, site selector packages, investor prospectuses, and brand identity for station areas and downtown districts.
- Technical Studies & Analysis: Market feasibility studies, infrastructure gap analyses, fiscal impact modeling, and TOD readiness assessments.
- Procurement Tools: RFPs, RFQs, master development agreements, and public-private partnership frameworks.
Projects should connect directly to development outcomes that expand the local tax base.
WHO CAN APPLY?
All cities, towns, townships, and county governments in Lake and Porter Counties are eligible. Joint applications from multiple jurisdictions are encouraged and will receive preference in the evaluation process.
PROGRAM BASICS
Grant Range: $15,000 – $75,000
Local Match: 10–50% required. Communities contributing higher match percentages receive favorable consideration.
Leverage: RDA funds may be used as local match for qualifying federal and state grant opportunities, helping communities access additional investment streams.
Total Available: $250,000 for FY2026
GETTING STARTED
Development Catalyst Grant Cover Sheet
Development Catalyst Grant Program Guide
Development Catalyst Grant Budget Worksheet
The RDA will provide pre-application support including office hours, budget templates, and procurement guidance. For more information, contact AJ Bytnar at abytnar@rda.in.gov or (219) 644-3500
