News Summary
The state of Indiana has introduced the ‘Power Up Indiana’ program, a $10 million initiative to enhance workforce skills and boost wages. Aimed at encouraging employer investment in employee training, the initiative allows businesses to receive significant financial incentives for training that leads to wage increases. With a focus on various types of training, the program seeks to promote long-term economic growth and development within the state.
Indianapolis Announces $10 Million ‘Power Up Indiana’ Initiative to Upskill Workforce and Increase Wages
Indianapolis, Indiana — The state of Indiana has launched a new workforce development program named Power Up Indiana, with a funding pool of $10 million, aimed at encouraging employers to invest in employee training and development. The initiative seeks to boost wages, improve employee skills, and support long-term economic growth across the state.
Program Highlights and Financial Incentives
The Power Up Indiana program offers qualifying businesses up to $5,000 reimbursement per trained employee. The maximum reimbursement per business is capped at $50,000 annually. To be eligible for the incentives, training must meet specific criteria and result in significant wage increases for employees.
Eligible training includes technical training, cross-training, leadership development, and registered apprenticeships that lead to industry-recognized credentials. After completing the training, employees must see their wages increase by at least 25% and exceed the regional median wages for the respective industry to qualify for reimbursement.
Eligibility and Application Process
The program is open to all Indiana businesses that are registered with the Secretary of State’s office and maintain an active unemployment tax account. Employers interested in participating can submit an online interest form along with a training plan, which includes job descriptions and salary ranges for approval.
Reimbursements cover training activities conducted from the beginning of 2025.
Program Oversight and Implementation
The Indiana Department of Commerce will oversee the overall administration of the program. Local workforce development boards will handle field implementation, approval processes, and reimbursement qualifications, ensuring that the program aligns with regional workforce needs.
Long-Term Strategy and Related Programs
Governor Mike Braun characterized the initiative as part of a long-term growth strategy, emphasizing its role in strengthening the state’s economic base. The program builds upon existing initiatives such as the Employer Training Grant, but with fewer restrictions regarding industry and wage requirements.
Supported Success Stories and Economic Impact
Adams highlighted a successful two-year rotation program at Keystone Cooperative called SEED, showcasing positive outcomes of structured employee development.
Overall, the program aims to cultivate a more skilled workforce, stimulate wage increases, and support economic growth—especially important amid drought conditions in parts of the state. Higher wages resulting from this training are expected to contribute to increased consumer spending and broader economic stability.
Summary
The Power Up Indiana initiative represents a targeted effort to improve workforce skills and wages across the state with a $10 million investment. The program encourages various forms of training, offers significant financial incentives, and is overseen by state and local agencies aimed at fostering sustainable economic development.
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The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
