Local and regional leaders in the Wabash River region today announced the allocation of READI 2.0 funding to support the development of the Goodwill Excel Center in Terre Haute, supporting the development of the region’s tuition-free, public charter high school for adults.
Governor Eric J. Holcomb established the now $1.25 billion READI program in 2021, and it has since been nationally recognized for its success. READI 2.0, which was part of the governor’s 2023 Next Level Agenda and approved by the Indiana General Assembly, allocates another $500 million to regions across the state to accelerate shovel-ready projects and programs that are expected to transform Indiana communities, attract talent and improve quality of life for Hoosiers in the short and long term. READI 2.0 funding allocations were awarded in April to 15 regions representing all 92 Indiana counties.
“Indiana’s economic momentum continues to build, and thanks to initiatives like the Goodwill Excel Center, we’re cultivating a robust and skilled talent pipeline to lead tomorrow’s in-demand careers,” said Indiana Secretary of Commerce David Rosenberg. “Through READI, we’re seeing government, industry and community organizations collaborate like never before to lift Hoosiers up and create more opportunities for all residents to prosper.”
In Terre Haute, the $3.39 million Goodwill Excel Center of West Central Indiana (including a $950,000 READI 2.0 allocation) will advance the region’s talent pipeline, serving the more than 26,000 Hoosiers who have not received a high school diploma. The Excel Center will serve these adults, eliminating barriers to earning industry-recognized certifications and high school diplomas while setting them up for success post-graduation. The center, which began accepting students this fall, provides wraparound support services, such as life coaches, college and career readiness counselors, high quality instructors and flexible scheduling, free tuition, childcare and transportation assistance.
READI 2.0 funding will be used to support infrastructure for the facility, which will be located at the Meadows Shopping Center. The Excel Center moved into a temporary location in the basement of the shopping center in August, and construction on the permanent location is expected to be complete in early spring.
“The READI 2.0 funding allocation for the Excel Center in Terre Haute represents a pivotal step in strengthening our region’s workforce and advancing educational opportunities for adults,” said Jon Ford, board president of the Wabash River Regional Development Authority (RDA). “By eliminating barriers to high school diplomas and industry certifications, the center is equipping individuals with the tools they need to succeed in the modern economy. This investment aligns with our mission to create long-term, sustainable growth in West Central Indiana, and we are proud to partner with the state to build a brighter future for our community.”
READI 1.0 has awarded $487 million to 353 unique projects and programs across the state, yielding $12.6 billion invested (26:1 investment leverage ratio) in quality of life, quality of place and quality of opportunity initiatives. READI 2.0, which secured additional funding awarded by the Lilly Endowment Inc., is allocating another $750 million to accelerate community development investments statewide. This funding is expected to attract a minimum 4:1 match of local public and private funding, yielding at least $3 billion invested to increase the vibrancy and prosperity of Hoosier communities.
Terre Haute is part of the West Central Indiana region – led by the Wabash River RDA – that was awarded $30 million in READI 1.0 and 2.0 matching funds to accelerate quality of place, quality of life and quality of opportunity initiatives. The region is prioritizing increases in population growth and retention, per capita income and educational attainment rates by investing in early childhood education; innovation, education and workforce training; housing availability; and destination and recreational development.
Learn more at IndianaREADI.com.
About the Wabash River Regional Development Authority (RDA)
The Wabash River Regional Development Authority (RDA) is dedicated to driving economic growth, enhancing quality of life, and fostering regional collaboration across the Wabash Valley. By prioritizing strategic projects that have the potential to transform communities, the RDA aims to leverage regional assets, attract new investments, and create a thriving environment for businesses and residents alike. The RDA works closely with local governments, businesses, and educational institutions to support initiatives that promote innovation, sustainability, and long-term economic vitality.
About IEDC
The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) is charged with growing the State economy, driving economic development, and helping businesses launch, grow and locate in the state. Governed by a 14-member board chaired by Governor Eric J. Holcomb, the IEDC manages many initiatives, including performance-based tax credits, workforce training grants, innovation and entrepreneurship resources, public infrastructure assistance, and talent attraction and retention efforts. For more information about the IEDC, visit iedc.in.gov.
Media Contacts:
Danielle Isbell
Wabash River RDA
812.239.0498
disbell@rjlsolutions.com
Nathan Brown
IEDC
317.586.1096
nabrown1@iedc.in.gov
