About IDO

Why We Do > About IDO

What does Irvington Development Organization (IDO) do for Irvington?

For starters, IDO

Recruits exciting new businesses to the heart of Irvington. Most recently IDO helped to recruit two new, independently owned businesses, The Mug and Simply Divine Cupcakes.
Oversees the Irvington Streetscape project, which focuses on creating a sense of place and enhancing the economic vitality of Irvington.
Manages the redevelopment of the former Indy East Motel property, which has become a sleek and contemporary 50-unit apartment complex called Irvington Lofts.
Promotes Irvington Green which focuses on sustainability efforts in Irvington.
Awards facade grants to local businesses and property owners, in conjunction with Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC). Over $220,000 has been awarded to local business owners since 2006. These grants improve the buildings’ appearance and beautify our corridor.

IDO is proud of what its members, working together, have accomplished over the last few years. Here are some highlights:

Awarded $2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to improve the Washington streetscape between Emerson and Bolton avenues.
Raised $250,000 needed from the local community match required for the DOT grant mentioned above.
Created an economic development plan for the business district that helped chart our business growth.
Developed a monthly community newsletter and social media strategy to share information and news about IDO and Irvington economic development.

It’s what we do at IDO!

Our History

In 2002, community leaders who were concerned with the decline in the number and types of businesses along Washington Street established Irvington Development Organization, a membership-based nonprofit aimed at preserving the neighborhood’s stability and charm while also encouraging measured economic growth.

Meet the Board
The IDO board includes representatives from Irvington Community Council, Irvington Historical Society, Irvington Business Association, and Irvington Garden Club. Having the participation of these groups on the board helps IDO approach development issues from a broad-based and collaborative perspective.

Interested in learning more about IDO? Contact us, and we will help you.

Join IDO
Support Irvington’s positive growth by becoming a member of IDO. Join now!

Would you like to lend your time and talents to the team of volunteers that make IDO’s success possible? Connect with us!

Our Funders

IDO is funded from individual donations, memberships, grants, fundraisers, and project administration monies. We would like to thank CICF, Citizens Energy Group, Community Hospital East, and LISC Indianapolis for their generous donations.