PAOLI — Local businesses on the Paoli Square have a new opportunity to upgrade their storefronts, thanks to a grant program launched by the community organization Possibilities in Paoli.
The Downtown Revitalization Grant Program is officially accepting applications from for-profit businesses operating within the designated Paoli downtown district. The application window will remain open until July 10.
Possibilities in Paoli plans to award two local businesses a grant of $2,500 each. Selected recipients must provide a minimum 25% cash match. According to organizers, the program aims to bolster long-term economic stability and enhance local community engagement by noticeably improving the appearance and accessibility of downtown storefronts.
The grant program marks a major milestone for Possibilities in Paoli, which was formed by a grassroots group of citizens in early 2022 who wanted to address local concerns and tap into the town’s unrealized potential.
Following their initial efforts, the group was recognized as an official Downtown Affiliate Network in March 2024 by the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA). The town subsequently achieved its official Indiana Main Street Community designation. This status has unlocked new avenues for local funding, preservation, and development—including the current storefront grants.
The revitalization push arrives at a crucial time for the historic courthouse square, which has previously contended with more than a dozen empty storefronts needing restoration. Main Street leaders hope these incremental aesthetic upgrades will complement larger regional preservation initiatives, such as separate ongoing nonprofit efforts to save and restore the historic Mineral Springs Hotel just off the square.
Beyond economic development, the volunteer-led organization regularly hosts hands-on public events to bring people together and beautify the area. The group’s recurring “Paint the Downtown” events invite community members to paint the windows of Paoli Square businesses for the changing seasons.
Area residents can look forward to several upcoming events, including:
- June 27: 4th of July & America’s 250th Anniversary “Paint the Downtown”
- September: Annual Chalk Art Contest
- October: Autumn “Paint the Downtown” session
- November: Paoli Christmas Merchants Open House
Organizers encourage all community members to get involved, regardless of prior experience.
