Indy Arts Council Unveils Strategic Plan to Transform Central Indiana's Arts Scene by 2030

On June 25, 2025, the Indy Arts Council unveiled a comprehensive five-year strategic plan aimed at transforming Central Indiana into a vibrant and inclusive arts and culture hub by 2030. The plan, developed over two years in collaboration with Next Practice Partners, reflects extensive community engagement and outlines key priorities to address existing barriers to arts participation.

The strategic planning process, conducted between 2023 and 2024, involved nearly 3,000 regional stakeholders—including artists, arts organizations, funders, civic partners, and community residents—through surveys, focus groups, and interviews. This inclusive approach ensured that the plan was informed by diverse perspectives and community needs.

Key findings from the community input revealed that while 79% of residents participate in local arts, only 48% feel their needs are fully met. The primary barriers identified were lack of awareness (46%) and affordability (34%). Additionally, residents strongly value the arts' contributions to quality of life, education, and community well-being, with 79% supporting private funding for the arts.

Based on these insights, the strategic plan identifies five key priorities for the next five years:

1. Sustainable Funding: Expanding and diversifying funding sources to support local artists and arts organizations.
2. Everyday Arts Access: Ensuring that arts and culture are accessible to all residents daily.
3. Increased Awareness: Enhancing public awareness and engagement with the arts.
4. Professional Development and Shared Services: Providing resources and opportunities for artists and arts organizations to grow and collaborate.
5. Arts and Culture Destination: Positioning Central Indiana as a vibrant hub for arts and culture.

Brenda Horn, Indy Arts Council Board Chair, emphasized the collaborative nature of the plan, stating, "We approached this project with curiosity and humility—and frankly, a lot of patience. We’re eager to do more to champion arts and culture in Indianapolis."

The plan also highlights the need for increased funding, professional development, and equitable resource allocation for arts professionals. Key priorities include networking opportunities, advocacy, and support for diverse communities. Artists expressed the need for mentorship, equitable funding, and access to affordable spaces, emphasizing better artist support, increased community engagement, and visibility for local talent.

In recent developments, the Indy Arts Council has granted nearly $1.5 million to 91 local arts and culture organizations in Indianapolis through its annual grants program. This program, in place since 1987, has been essential in bolstering the city's arts and culture scene, benefiting nearly 8 million residents and visitors each year. Among the recipients are prominent organizations like The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, Big Car Collaborative, and the Eiteljorg Museum. Julie Goodman, president and CEO of the Indy Arts Council, expressed gratitude for the city's continued investment in the sector, noting the significant funding increases for 63% of BIPOC-led organizations this year.

The strategic plan's emphasis on sustainable funding, accessibility, and increased awareness addresses critical barriers to arts participation identified by the community. By focusing on these areas, the Indy Arts Council aims to create a more inclusive and vibrant arts scene that reflects the diversity and needs of Central Indiana's residents. The plan's implementation could lead to enhanced community engagement, economic growth through the arts, and a strengthened cultural identity for the region.

The Indy Arts Council's strategic plan represents a significant step toward transforming Central Indiana into a thriving arts and culture destination. By addressing community-identified barriers and focusing on key priorities, the council aims to create a more inclusive, accessible, and vibrant arts scene that reflects the diversity and needs of the region's residents.