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Franklin EDC awards $107,679 in fee grants to three local nonprofits
Summary
The EDC allocated $107,679.08 in EDC fee funds: $25,000 to the Franklin Chamber Foundation for small business capacity grants, $25,000 to Franklin Heritage for a live events series at the Art Craft theater, and the remaining $57,006.79 to Discover Downtown Franklin for a regional marketing campaign.
Franklin's Economic Development Commission approved awards from the year's EDC fee fund, distributing $107,679.08 among three nonprofit proposals intended to support downtown businesses, arts programming and marketing.
Rosie Chambers, representing the Franklin Chamber Foundation, asked for $25,000 to fund five $5,000 capacity‑building grants for small businesses in ZIP code 46131. "We've had success helping businesses grow," Chambers said, describing a scoring rubric and follow‑up letter of impact required of grantees.
George Temples of Franklin Heritage requested $25,000 to seed a live events series at the Art Craft theater aimed at drawing regional visitors in January–April 2026 and supporting local performers; he provided attendance and per‑visitor spending estimates and tied the request to ongoing strategic planning and planned sound/lighting improvements.
A Discover Downtown Franklin representative requested $57,000 for a multimedia regional marketing campaign (digital ads, radio, billboards, pedestrian signage and photography) intended to drive more visitors and downtown spending; the presenter described a proposed budget breakdown and tracking options.
Commissioners discussed repeat funding, selection criteria and whether the application should be amended in future years to reduce repeat awards. After discussion, a motion to approve the Chamber Foundation ($25,000), Franklin Heritage ($25,000) and Discover Downtown ($57,006.79 remaining balance) was moved, seconded and approved by voice vote.
Staff noted the available EDC fee balance was $107,679.08 and encouraged applicants to track outcomes and report back.
