Indiana's READI Program Creates $675M Economic Impact

Indiana just proved that investing in local communities pays off in a big way.

A comprehensive evaluation by Purdue University and Indiana University found that the first round of the Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI) generated more than $675 million in economic impact across Indiana. The program, launched in 2021 with $500 million in state funding, has already created an estimated 3,523 jobs while improving quality of life in communities statewide.

Governor Mike Braun announced the results Thursday, highlighting how state, regional, and local leaders worked together to multiply the program's reach. Private investors, development groups, and municipalities contributed matching funds that amplified the original investment far beyond its initial scope.

The initiative funded 416 projects across Indiana's 92 counties, focusing on three core areas: quality of life, quality of place, and quality of opportunity. These weren't just economic development boxes to check. The projects sparked real improvements in talent attraction, tourism, and community pride that families can see and feel every day.

In Southeast Indiana alone, the impact tells a compelling story. The region spent 78 percent of its allocated funding by January 2026, generating over $15 million in total economic output. That included $5 million in labor income and 97 regional jobs, with 74 direct positions and 23 additional jobs created through ripple effects.

The Ripple Effect

What makes READI special isn't just the dollar amounts. It's how the program strengthens the foundation of Indiana communities for years to come.

When local governments, nonprofits, and businesses work together on shared goals, the benefits compound. A tourism project creates jobs, which attracts talent, which builds community pride, which draws more investment. The report measured spending through January 6, 2026, covering nearly $400 million in grant awards, but the full impact will unfold over the coming years.

Indiana families now have more job opportunities closer to home. Communities have better infrastructure and amenities that make them places where people want to stay and raise families. The matching funds from private partners show that businesses believe in these communities' futures enough to invest their own resources.

The state has already launched the next wave of funding, ready to build on these proven results and create even more opportunities for Hoosiers across all 17 regions.