BLOOMINGTON – The Indiana University Center for Rural Engagement (CRE) is now accepting applications from rural communities across Indiana to become the next partner in its impactful Sustaining Hoosier Communities (SHC) program.
This unique initiative annually connects one selected community with the vast resources of Indiana University, including faculty, staff, and students, for an intensive year-long collaboration on community-identified projects designed to enhance the lives of Hoosiers.
The SHC program offers an unparalleled opportunity for rural areas to address critical local needs and implement transformative projects. Participating communities benefit from the expertise and dedicated efforts of IU teams, which foster sustainable solutions and promote long-term growth.
The Sustaining Hoosier Communities program is a cornerstone of commitment to uplift and empower rural Indiana. Each year, the IU Center for Rural Engagement witnesses incredible progress and positive change in its partner communities.
Traditionally, entire counties have applied for the SHC program. However, to broaden its reach and impact, the CRE is now encouraging applications from rural towns, cities, or even communities defined in more creative ways. The primary geographic requirement is that applicants must be located within an approximately 90-minute drive from Bloomington, Indiana.
Interested communities are encouraged to learn more about the program and submit a proposal by the October 1, 2025, deadline. Further details and application materials can be found on the IU Center for Rural Engagement website.
The Sustaining Hoosier Communities program is a testament to Indiana University’s dedication to civic engagement and its vital role in the prosperity of the state’s rural areas.
About the IU Center for Rural Engagement: The IU Center for Rural Engagement connects Indiana University with rural communities to improve lives and livelihoods. Through collaborative partnerships, the CRE addresses critical challenges facing rural Indiana, fostering sustainable development and enhancing quality of life.
