A Look Back at January’s Grant Writing Workshop

In January 2025, the ECI Regional Planning District was proud to partner with Purdue Extension to host the Beginner’s Guide to Grant Writing—a dynamic, two-day workshop designed to equip participants with the tools needed to transform ideas into fundable projects. Held on January 16th and 30th at the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) in Muncie, this workshop drew attendees from across the region eager to develop practical skills and strategies for effective grant writing.

This comprehensive workshop focused on both the foundational principles of writing a grant proposal and the critical skills needed to present and refine a proposal effectively. Day one introduced participants to the essential elements of crafting a compelling grant application—identifying needs, outlining project goals, and building a strong budget. On day two, the focus shifted to proposal presentation and the evaluation process, providing valuable insight into what grant reviewers look for and how to position projects for success.

The event was part of a statewide effort by Purdue Extension to bring impactful training to communities throughout Indiana. Over the years, this program has helped individuals and organizations secure millions of dollars in funding—supporting economic development, community programs, local government initiatives, and small businesses.

The success of the January workshop highlights the strong regional interest in skills-building opportunities and strategic collaboration. The ECI Regional Planning District is enthusiastic about the possibility of hosting similar workshops in the future to continue empowering our communities to pursue transformative funding opportunities.

A special thank you to the Academy of Model Aeronautics, which generously provided their facility as an in-kind donation, underscoring their commitment to community growth and educational initiatives. Their support helped create a welcoming and professional space for hands-on learning and collaboration.