INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Seven proposals have been submitted for a new state grant program aimed at encouraging Indiana counties and cities to collaborate on regional development projects.

The Indiana Economic Development Corp. said Tuesday it has received proposals for projects in and around the cities of Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Evansville, South Bend, Muncie and Terre Haute and for northwestern Indiana.

The state budget directs up to $84 million over the next two years to the Regional Cities program that was pushed by Gov. Mike Pence. The program allows grants or loans to regional groups for infrastructure or amenity projects that could help attract businesses and people to those areas.

A committee established by the state economic development board is to recommend funding for the projects late this year.