Frequently Asked Questions
In early 2023, the Lilly Endowment announced the College and Community Collaboration (CCC) grantmaking initiative, offering transformative $25+ million grants to Indiana colleges and universities for projects that benefit both the campus and community. Beyond grant funding, institutions would be required to match these dollars through additional public and private investment. In December 2023, Taylor University was awarded $30 million in CCC funding, to be matched with over $70 million in additional public and private funding, for a total of over $100 million in investment in Upland.
Overall, the initial funding comes from a $30 million grant from Lilly CCC. Then, Taylor University is required to generate another $70 million in funding from donors, other grants, and private investment.
The vast majority of the grant dollars have been allocated for construction and infrastructure projects, as a requirement of the application process. However, we have a fund available for beautification projects for owner-occupied homes and non-profits in Downtown and along Main Street, and are working to develop a small business revolving loan fund. For more information, please reach out at hello@uplandmainstreet.org.
If you would like to become more involved in the Main Street Mile Initiative, we would encourage you to attend any of the community listening sessions we frequently host on a variety of topics. Information about these sessions is typically shared on our newsletter, website, and social media several weeks in advance of each session. Upland also boasts many active volunteer organizations, including the Upland Area Historical Society, Upland Area Greenways Association, Our Town Upland, Garden Club, and more, all of which are open to new volunteers and members.
The most efficient way to stay updated on the Main Street Mile Initiative is to sign up for our monthly newsletter, which shares information on projects, community events, and more. Updates are also frequently shared on social media via Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
If you are interested in investing in Upland or relocating a business, please reach out at hello@uplandmainstreet.org.
There is currently little available space for new businesses in Upland, but our planned Downtown mixed-use development will include several business suites available for leasing. If you would like to be placed on an interest list, please reach out at hello@uplandmainstreet.org.
If you are interested in donating or contributing to the Main Street Mile Initiative, please contact us at hello@uplandmainstreet.org