About the ABC Grant

The City of North Vernon has a bold vision for a thriving, vibrant, and beautifully redeveloped city. We’re dedicated to building a bright, opportunity-filled future.

North Vernon’s ABC Initiative is designed to empower local businesses, foster community growth, and unlock new possibilities for our city. Through grants and low-interest loans, this initiative provides essential resources to help business owners achieve their goals, driving economic growth, enhancing the city’s unique charm, and promoting the integration of modern technology and strategic planning. Together, we’re shaping a lively and prosperous North Vernon, where businesses and the community flourish.

Available Grants

Access Grant
Up to $10,000 grant for accessibility improvements (requires dollar-for-dollar match for projects totaling up to $10,000).

Boost Loan
Low-interest loan up to $100,000 for building enhancements and redevelopment (excludes inventory/fixtures).

Charm Grant
Up to $7,500 grant for aesthetic improvements (requires dollar-for-dollar match for projects totaling up to $7,500).

To apply please complete all questions. Application due 3/31/2026. Funds awarded out April – May 2026.

1. Business Size: Must be a for-profit, local business with 50 or fewer employees, including microenterprises (fewer than 5 employees) and sole proprietorships.

2. Business Registration and Location: The business must be registered to operate in Indiana and located within the city limits of North Vernon.

3. Operational History: The business must have been operational for at least six months.

4. Application Limits: Businesses may apply for only one grant or loan at a time and must complete the closeout process for a current award before applying for another program.

5. Exclusions: National chains are not eligible to apply.

6. Good Standing: The business and its owner must be in good standing with the City of North Vernon and Jennings County. This includes:

  • Having commercial activity as the primary purpose of the business.
  • No delinquent property taxes, city liens, or fines.
  • No unresolved code compliance issues.

7. Loan Documentation: Loan applicants are required to submit a three-year proforma, including an income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement.

8. Business Coaching: Loan and Grant applicants must complete a one-on-one business coaching session through the Indiana Small Business Development Center (ISBDC).

9. Grant Documentation: Grant applicants must submit their most recent IRS Form 990 as part of their application.

10. Grant Project Budget: Grant applicants must provide a detailed project budget. Receipts will be required when submitting for funds and the awardee must complete the final project report and closeout to verify the proper use of funds.

11. Promotional Requirements: Awardees must agree to:

  • Submit before-and-after photos of the project.
  • Display program signage prominently at their location.
  • Participate in social media and news media promotion.

12. Prohibited Self-Performance: Applicants cannot use grant or loan funds to pay for work they perform themselves. All project work must be completed by external contractors or service providers.

Grant Application