Duke Energy Supports Economic Development in Southern Indiana with Partnership Program Grants

Three local organizations were among the grant recipients.

(Plainfield, Ind.) – Duke Energy has selected seven economic development organizations in southern Indiana for inclusion in its 2024 Partnership Program.

The program funds marketing and strategic efforts to attract new jobs and investment in communities the company serves.

Among the grant recipients are:

The City of Batesville ($5,000)

• The City of Batesville recently approved an ordinance creating a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) district within city limits. DORA districts can provide an economic boost and serve as a tourism draw for communities. Grant funds will be used to support the creation of a website, signage and advertising to increase foot traffic to retail and restaurants in the vicinity of the new DORA district.

I-74 Business Corridor ($5,000)

• Grant funds will support the presence of several I-74 Business Corridor member organizations at various trade shows and conferences throughout the year to market and promote the region and network with site consultants and business prospects.

One Dearborn ($5,000)

• Grant funds will support the complete redesign of One Dearborn’s website to improve user engagement, functionality and search engine optimization.

To qualify for program consideration, each applicant submitted a plan that would have a direct impact on their community’s economic growth. Grant amounts varied depending on the size and scope of the project.

“Economic development plays a vital role in the long-term growth and prosperity of the state,” said Erin Schneider, managing director of business development at Duke Energy. “Through these grant funds, we’re proud to support our local economic development partners as they work in new and creative ways to market their communities to site selectors and businesses across the world.”