At The Mill, we are excited to share significant updates on the progress of The Forge and the transformative partnership fueling the revitalization of Bloomington’s Trades District. With construction on track for a grand opening on November 22, 2024, we are not just creating a physical space—we’re laying the groundwork for a thriving hub of innovation and economic development.
$16 MILLION GRANT FROM THE LILLY ENDOWMENT
In an extraordinary boost to our efforts, Indiana University Bloomington has been awarded a $16 million grant from the Lilly Endowment as part of its highly competitive College and Community Collaboration initiative. This substantial funding fully supports IU President Pam Whitten’s vision for “Accelerating the Transformation of Bloomington’s Trades District.”
The Mill is honored to be a partner alongside Indiana University and the City of Bloomington in advancing this vision. This funding will play a pivotal role in reshaping the Trades District into a vibrant center for innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. The development of this innovation district is critical to addressing some of our community’s most pressing challenges, such as the need for high-paying jobs and attracting new investments.
A TRANSFORMATIVE PARTNERSHIP
This grant represents a monumental win not only for The Mill but for the entire Bloomington community, Indiana University, and the entrepreneurial ecosystem we are dedicated to supporting. We extend our deepest gratitude to IU President Pamela Whitten for her leadership in the proposal process, as well as her unwavering commitment to the shared vision for the Trades District. Additionally, Mayor Kerry Thomson’s support has been instrumental in prioritizing an innovation-driven economic growth strategy for this grant competition, and her confidence in The Mill team’s capabilities is greatly appreciated.
HOW THE FUNDS WILL BE USED
The $16 million will be allocated to three key initiatives aimed at transforming Bloomington’s Trades District:
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Attracting Quality Employers and Jobs
- Tenant improvement build-outs to incentivize employers to locate in The Forge.
- Marketing and outreach to attract prospective employers.
- Capital funding to expand The Mill’s coworking and office capabilities.
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Accelerating Area Development
- Funding for land acquisition to expand the Trades District, allowing The Mill to acquire approximately four acres of developable parcels from the City of Bloomington.
- Outreach to developers for the available parcels in the Trades District.
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Enhancing Placemaking
- Infrastructure improvements, including wayfinding, lighting, and sidewalk enhancements that reinforce the district’s identity.
- Public art installations throughout the district.
- Events and festivals to establish the Trades District as a vibrant arts and cultural destination.
This funding is a significant step forward in realizing the full potential of the Trades District. We look forward to working collaboratively with our partners and stakeholders to bring this ambitious vision to life.
A VISION FOR THE FUTURE
As highlighted in President Whitten’s grant application, the Trades District will serve as a catalyst for the economic growth needed to address key challenges in Bloomington. These include low wages, limited housing affordability, and the need for a stronger innovation economy. The transformation of the Trades District is essential in creating a future where talent retention, economic opportunity, and community prosperity are at the forefront.
WHAT'S NEXT?
The Forge is on track to open on November 22, 2024, marking the beginning of a new chapter for Bloomington. The Mill will continue to lead efforts to shape the Trades District into a dynamic innovation hub. As the recipient of nearly $8 million in grant funding for Mill-related projects, we are focused on accelerating the growth of technology companies and startups within the district.
We are excited about what’s to come and are deeply grateful for the trust placed in us to advance this important work. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to build a future of innovation and opportunity right here in Bloomington.