Messmer: Grant opportunity offered for solar eclipse events

Local Sources- With eight months left before the 2024 total solar eclipse, State Sen. Mark Messmer (R-Jasper) reminds organizations in communities across southwestern Indiana that they're eligible for a $2,000 grant from the IU Center for Rural Engagement.

The grant will help cover the cost of any eclipse-related activities and events, with a focus on arts and culture projects like performing and visual arts, film and cultural heritage events.

"The total solar eclipse is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and many Americans will visit the path of totality, which runs through portions of southwest Indiana," Messmer said. "This grant opportunity is a great way for local organizations to attract visitors to the area and promote communities that will see an increase in visitors."

Earlier this year, the Senate adopted Senate Resolution 6 in order to bring awareness to the 2024 eclipse occurring on Monday, April 8, 2024.

Grant funding for this initiative comes from Simons Foundation and Regional Opportunity Initiatives.

"I encourage any organization planning to host a solar eclipse-related event to consider applying for this grant opportunity to promote the cities and towns across Senate District 48," Messmer said.

The priority deadline to apply is Friday, Sept. 1, and the center will conduct virtual office hours from 2 to 3 p.m. on Wednesdays during the month of August.

For more information on this grant opportunity, click here.