SDC Launches Housing Optimizers Preconstruction Grant Program

Houses in Legacy Heights are made with a steel frame.

The Northeast Indiana Strategic Development Commission (NEISDC) has announced the launch of the Housing Optimizers Preconstruction Grant Program, a forward-looking initiative designed to address the region’s pressing housing shortage by reducing risk in early-stage development.

This grant program provides seed funding for preconstruction activities, including architectural and engineering services, permitting, surveying, environmental assessments, land acquisition deposits, and project management. By investing in these critical early phases, NEISDC aims to strengthen organizational capacity and encourage sustainable, community-driven housing solutions.

“This program is a significant step toward reshaping the future of housing in Northeast Indiana. By removing barriers at the earliest stage of development, we are ensuring that our communities can deliver the housing needed to support long-term growth and prosperity,” NEI President and CEO Stephane Frijia said.

Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be recognized housing optimizers by NEISDC, submit a five-year organizational financial stability plan, and maintain compliance with all applicable regulations. Eligible entities include Local Economic Development Organizations (LEDOs), Community Development Corporations (CDCs), Housing Authorities, and qualified 501(c)(3) organizations.

Application Timeline

  • Opt-in resolution deadline: December 31, 2025
  • Full application deadline: March 31, 2026

Stakeholders are encouraged to contact Madison Morrison madison@yourhousingresource.org and Ryan Chasey at ryan@yourhousingresource.org.

Want to be the first to know about what is going on at NEI and our region? Sign up for the NEI Newsletter and Blog below.

Categories & Tags

Related Articles

Group Photo from the Indiana On Top Tour
Business Development

Indiana On Top Tour Impresses Again

This month, the NEI Business Development team, in collaboration with our regional partners at the South Bend–Elkhart Regional Partnership and the Northwest Indiana Forum, proudly

Read More »