FARMERSBURG, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV)— Duke Energy has awarded five economic development organizations across the Wabash Valley with grant money in an effort to boost growth and job creation.
All of the organizations chosen were in western Indiana, and those organizations have been included in the 2025 Partnership Program through Duke Energy. This program funds marketing and strategic efforts to attract new jobs and investment to the state.
“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 funding can be used for a multitude of marketing initiatives, including trade show attendance, website redesign, promotional materials, and presentations or tours to introduce prospective companies and site selectors to a community. Each organization that was selected submitted a plan to Duke Energy on something that would have a direct impact on their community’s economic growth. The grant money awarded to the organizations was reflected by the size and scope of their plan.
The organizations who received the grants were:
- Accelerate West Central Indiana Economic Development – $5,000
- Grant funds will support the development and execution of marketing and public relations activities.
- Daviess County Economic Development Corporation – $5,000
- Grant funds will support updated videography and photography showcasing the WestGate@Crane Technology Park, its tenants, and the strategic advantages it offers to investors.
- Greene County Economic Development Corporation – $5,000
- Grant funds will support the revitalization of the organization’s website, which includes incorporating a more modern design and adding higher-quality photography.
- Knox County Indiana Economic Development – $5,000
- Grant funds will support artificial intelligence (AI) training for Knox County Indiana Economic Development staff and local business executives. The training will enable the organization’s leadership to more effectively engage in high-level dialogues with potential investors, articulate the community’s tech-ready vision, and implement modern practices to attract new industries.
- Martin County Alliance for Economic Growth – $5,000
- Grant funds will support the production of promotional video and photography featuring local residents, business owners and community leaders, as well as recreational activities and economic opportunities. The imagery will be used in marketing materials aimed at attracting new residents, tourists and businesses to Martin County.
