INDIANA—Duke Energy has selected five economic development organizations in south central Indiana for inclusion in its 2025 Partnership Program. The program funds marketing and strategic efforts to attract new jobs and investment to Indiana.
“This program gives our local economic development partners the tools they need to showcase the strengths of their communities – both at home and on the national stage,” said Erin Schneider, managing director of economic development at Duke Energy. “It’s just one of the many ways we’re helping influence growth in the state to build competitive, thriving communities.”
Partnership Program grant funds can support various marketing initiatives, including trade show attendance, website redesign, promotional materials, and presentations or tours to introduce prospective companies and site selectors to a community.
To qualify for program consideration, each applicant submitted a plan that would directly impact their community’s economic growth. Grant amounts varied depending on the size and scope of the project.
This year, grants were awarded to the following south central Indiana organizations:
Lawrence County Economic Growth Council – $5,000
Grant funds will support the development of a new website that aligns with the organization’s work to promote new investment through business retention and expansion, business attraction, and quality-of-place enhancement.
Bloomington Economic Development Corporation – $5,000
Grant funds will support the creation of high-quality marketing materials designed to attract new business investment, highlight Monroe County’s competitive advantages, and accelerate the region’s job growth and economic development.
Jackson County Industrial Development Corporation – $5,000
Grant funds will support the organization’s attendance at several site consultant events in 2025.
Owen County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Corporation and Brown County Redevelopment Commission – $10,000
Owen County and Brown County will each receive $5,000 to support the counties’ regional efforts, alongside Monroe County, for their work with the Regional Opportunity Initiatives to submit an application to the U.S. Economic Development Administration for an Economic Development District designation.
