Grant expands access to Advanced Manufacturing and Digital Technology CTE programs
(INDIANAPOLIS) – The Indiana Commission for Higher Education (Commission) has awarded 11 Career and Technical Education (CTE) districts or high schools with an Education Readiness Grant. This grant provides funding to implement CTE programs in high-demand career fields. The grant is administered through the Commission’s CTE team and aims to
strengthen partnerships between industry and local schools, while increasing student access to opportunities in these career fields.
The Commission awarded $685,000 in advanced manufacturing and $415,000 in digital technology awards for a total of $1.1 million. Grant recipients will either expand or start an eligible program that has a direct connection with local employers in advanced manufacturing or digital technology industries. This includes providing students with work-based
learning experience that complements the CTE pathways coursework.
The recipients of the 2025 Education Readiness Grants are listed below:
Advanced Manufacturing
- MSD of Steuben County: $125,000
- SW Dubois County School Corp: $115,000
- Anderson Community/District 26: $45,000
- NE Dubois Jr/Sr. HS: $40,000
- Adams Central HS: $115,000
- Eastbrook Community School Corp: $120,000
- New Castle HS: $125,000
Digital Technology
- Mt. Vernon Community School Corp: $125,000
- Indianapolis Public Schools: $120,000
- Hamilton Southeastern Schools: $70,000
- Franklin Central Community School Corp: $100,000
This is the fourth year of the Education Readiness Grant program. The grant was initially designed in partnership with Conexus Indiana as a student-focused component to the employer-targeted Manufacturing Readiness Grants program.
TechPoint joined as a partner in year two and the program expanded to also include the technology sector. Recent research of past grant recipients from Conexus indicates the grant increases enrollments and certifications in these high-demand programs, supports skill development, and improves partner collaboration.
Grant applications were reviewed by advisory committees organized by TechPoint and Conexus, which make funding recommendations for the Commission’s consideration. The committees are comprised of postsecondary, industry, and state leadership partners who represent various industry sectors and technology competencies. Grant funding is
provided through Indiana’s annual federal allocation from the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century (Perkins V) Act.
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About the Indiana Commission for Higher Education
Created in 1971, the Indiana Commission for Higher Education (CHE, Commission) is the State’s coordinating agency, driven to improve economic and social mobility for fellow Hoosiers through higher education. The Commission’s HOPE (Hoosier Opportunities & Possibilities through Education) Agenda serves as the agency’s strategic plan and mission through 2030, providing seven goals around enrollment, completion, and graduate retention efforts. The Commission also administers Indiana’s state financial aid programs, including 21st Century Scholars, which celebrates 35 years in 2025.
About Conexus Indiana
Conexus Indiana, a branded initiative of the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership (CICP), is dedicated to advancing the Hoosier State’s position as a global leader in advanced manufacturing and logistics. Working closely with industry, academia, and government partners, Conexus Indiana drives workforce development, economic growth, and innovation across the state.
About TechPoint
TechPoint is the CICP industry-led growth initiative for Indiana’s digital innovation economy and overall tech ecosystem. The team is focused on working with public, private and industry partners to expand tech talent pipeline, enhance resource connectivity for enterprise organizations and startups alike, and elevate the industry by activating the community and amplifying stories of success.