As electric cooperatives, we are community-focused organizations committed to serving the families and businesses on our lines. Our grant program supports and helps grow the vibrant communities that we and our member co-ops serve.
– Zyan Miller
Economic Development Specialist
Wabash Valley Power
Wabash Valley Power Alliance awarded 10 grants totaling $80,000 for local growth and site readiness as part of its new economic development program supporting local communities.
WVPA launched the new grants earlier this year in collaboration with its member electric distribution cooperatives to best serve their communities. WVPA member co-ops worked with local economic development organizations to identify impactful projects that align with regional goals and encouraged the organizations to apply for the funding. WVPA awarded four Community Development Grants collectively totaling $20,000, and six Site Development Grants totaling $60,000.
“As electric cooperatives, we are community-focused organizations committed to serving the families and businesses on our lines,” said Zyan Miller, economic development specialist at Wabash Valley Power. “Our grant program supports and helps grow the vibrant communities that we and our member co-ops serve. It is an honor for us to support the impactful work our member co-ops are doing in the community.”
Grant recipients include:
- Carroll County, (served by Carroll White REMC): New agriculture strategy implemented to strengthen local food systems and support farmers.
- Mongo, Ind. (served by LaGrange County REMC): Community park revitalization project to transform public space for families and youth to enjoy.
- Mill Creek Park, Ill. (served by EnerStar Cooperative): New campsite additions that will boost tourism and recreation.
- Steuben County (served by Steuben County REMC): Skills Forecasting and Bridging Initiative to connect workforce needs with training programs to prepare residents for future job opportunities.
“Across our cooperative territories, community support grants are making a lasting impact by bringing vital projects to life in rural areas,” Miller said. “The projects’ benefits ripple throughout the broader communities we serve, reinforcing our mission to uplift and empower those we serve.”
Projects across Indiana and one in MJM Electric Cooperative’s Illinois territory received Site Development Grants to fund activities including site studies, environmental remediation, and strategic marketing. Each project will attract private investment to its respective region, which supports job creation and positions each community for further growth.
“Each project that received Site Development Grant funding highlights the bold vision and determination behind our collective economic development efforts with our member co-ops,” Miller said. “These grants are proof of the competitive edge we are building in every corner of our regions.”
WVPA will conduct another grant cycle this fall to allow communities to support time-sensitive projects and emerging needs. WVPA officials hope that the initial grant program’s success will encourage more organizations and project administrators to inquire and apply for funding.
“As electric cooperatives, we are community-focused organizations committed to serving the families and businesses on our lines,” Miller said. “Our grant program offers flexibility to support and help grow the vibrant communities that we and our member co-ops serve.”
About WVPA Economic Development Grants
WVPA Community Development Grant (up to $5,000): These grants support projects that enhance livability and quality of place. Eligible initiatives include downtown revitalization, workforce housing planning, public amenities, and childcare development support – a growing need that directly supports talent attraction and retention.
WVPA Site Development Grant (up to $10,000): These grants increase the marketability of industrial and commercial properties by supporting efforts like site certification, utility mapping, and due diligence studies. This grant can also be used to market existing site opportunities.
Details including eligibility requirements and application can be found on our website.