Federal funding to boost Hoosier communities
WASHINGTON, D.C. (Inside INdiana Business) — The U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) has awarded two grants totaling more than $4 million to two Indiana communities. U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo says the funding will support workforce training programs in Starke County and promote business growth and job creation in Noble County.
The EDA awarded $2.8 million to Starke County Initiative for Lifelong Learning in Knox to build a 12,000-square-foot workforce training center. The facility will be used for precision welding, automation, robotics and equipment maintenance training programs.
The EDA says the project will be matched with nearly $700,000 in local funds and is expected to generate more than $24 million in private investment and create 640 jobs.
“SCILL is a unique and vital program that provides Hoosiers in Starke County with new opportunities by helping them build the job skills they need to thrive,” said Congresswoman Jackie Walorski (R-02). “This investment in SCILL’s mission will help expand its efforts to strengthen our workforce, ensure local businesses can hire the skilled workers they need, and make a real difference in people’s lives.”
Additionally, the EDA awarded $1.3 million to the Noble County town of Avilla. The funding, along with $1.3 million in local matching funds, will be used for road, water and sewer infrastructure improvements in support of the town’s industrial park.
The EDA says the project will generate $7.8 million in private investment, create 70 jobs and retain more than 360 jobs.