As average temperatures rise across Indiana, local governments face growing challenges related to heat-related illness, emergency response, and community resilience.
Beat the Heat is a statewide capacity-building program that supports Hoosier communities in preparing for, responding to, and reducing the health risks associated with extreme heat. The program equips communities with the tools, data, and expertise needed to safeguard residents and strengthen long-term resilience.
Developed in partnership with ERI, the IU Health Cities Lab, and the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs, Beat the Heat provides participating communities with tailored heat-mapping data, planning support, and guidance in designing evidence-based heat resilience strategies.
Beat The Heat Round 2: Now accepting applications
Indiana local governments interested in strengthening their community’s resilience to extreme heat are invited to apply to participate in Beat the Heat Round 2.
The program will support two Indiana local governments in building capacity to adapt to heat emergencies and their public health impacts associated with heat. Non-entitlement cities or towns with a population under 50,000 are invited to apply for the program. Applications are being accepted through Monday, Jan. 19, 2026.
Non-entitlement communities seeking to build local capacity for heat emergency preparedness
Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to community engagement, public health, and resilience planning.
To apply, communities must complete the following:
Letter of Intent (LOI) Submit an LOI through the Beat the Heat application portal by the posted deadline. The LOI notifies the program of your community’s interest and begins the review process.
Application Form After submitting the LOI, applicants complete a full application describing current heat-related challenges, community priorities, and potential sites or strategies for heat resilience projects.
Supporting Information Communities may be asked to provide relevant demographic data, existing emergency management plans, or other documentation demonstrating local need and capacity.
There are several resources available to communities to answer questions and provide guidance on the application process:
Informational Webinar A recorded webinar explains program goals, expectations, and required application materials.
Office Hours with Indiana University Applicants can attend virtual office hours on December 10, 2025, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. to ask questions, receive feedback, and clarify program requirements for interested applicants.
OCRA Community Liaisons Each region has a designated liaison available to answer questions and assist with the application process.
Beat the Heat Pilot Program
2021-23
Clarksville and Richmond became the first Indiana communities to develop heat management plans and identify stratgies and actions to protect residents' health.
According to the Indiana Climate Impacts Assessment, the number of extreme heat events are projected to increase significantly throughout Indiana by 2050 due to climate change.
Developing short- and long-term solutions to protect residents from the health impacts of hot days and nights is necessary for communities throughout the state.
