RCCF Awards $25,000 Grant to Support Exhibit Design at Kids Discovery Factory

Tuesday, July 28, 2026 at 11:29 AM

By Travis Thayer @eagle993

The funding supports three custom-designed exhibit experiences that will become centerpiece attractions

Photo provided

(Batesville, Ind.) - Kids Discovery Factory has received a $25,000 grant from the Ripley County Community Foundation to support the design and fabrication of key exhibits in the region's future children's museum.

The grant will fund the creation of detailed construction and fabrication plans for three custom-designed exhibit experiences that will become centerpiece attractions within the museum.

Supported projects include the Pollinator Tree House and the two-story Bee Hotel in the Honey Factory gallery, along with the Wood Workshop in the Assembly Floor gallery.

The Honey Factory gallery introduces young learners to the fascinating world of bees and pollinators while exploring themes of teamwork, manufacturing, and our connection to the natural world. A giant Pollinator Tree House will help youth discover the important role native pollinators play in our ecosystem, and explore a towering two-story Bee Hotel inspired by habitats that support solitary bee.

In the Assembly Floor gallery, the Wood Workshop will give children opportunities to design, build, and create using real tools and hands-on construction materials. The exhibit encourages problem-solving, creativity, perseverance, and confidence while introducing families to the craftsmanship and woodworking traditions that have helped shape southeastern Indiana's manufacturing and hardwood lumber industries.

“This grant allows us to move from vision to reality by creating the detailed fabrication plans that local builders can use to bring these one-of-a-kind learning experiences to life. We are incredibly grateful to the Ripley County Community Foundation for investing in the future of playful learning in our region," said Executive Director, Emili Uden.

The museum is expected to welcome approximately 40,000 visitors annually and become an educational resource for schools, families, and community organizations throughout the region.

Construction of the museum is nearing completion. The anticipated opening is first half of 2027.

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