$675 million impact reported from initial Regional Economic Development funding

Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at 4:06 PM

By Staff report

Governor Mike Braun announced that the first round of funding from the Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI) created an estimated economic impact across Indiana of more than $675 million.

Those results come from a program evaluation conducted by Purdue University Center for Regional Development and Indiana University Public Policy Institute, providing a comprehensive account of the influence the first funding round of READI investments made on Indiana income, job growth, cultural enrichment, taxes and more.

“The success of Indiana’s landmark regional economic development initiative showcases what is possible when state, regional and local leaders across government, nonprofits and the private sector work in tandem with one another,” said Governor Mike Braun. “These investments in our local communities are essential to maintaining a strong economy, workforce and overall infrastructure. The impact of this initiative will be felt for years to come, and I look forward to seeing how our communities take advantage of the next wave of funding.”

Highlights of the report include insight into the magnitude of matching funds contributed by private investors, local and regional development groups, and municipalities, multiplying the impact and reach of READI dollars across Indiana. The economic development initiative also had a measurable impact on employment; to date, READI’s first round has funded the creation of an estimated 3,523 jobs.

The report includes summaries of READI impacts for each of Indiana’s regions. This wide array of projects has helped to spur talent attraction, tourism, and cultural and community pride — improving Hoosiers’ quality of life and opportunity while strengthening families and communities.

The report’s estimates reflect state-funded project spending prior to January 6, 2026 — which includes 405 projects representing nearly $400 million in READI grant awards. The impact from these projects won’t end here – it is expected to grow as projects progress and expenditures increase. The results listed in the report also only represent one-time impacts, and do not account for effects from ongoing operations or visitor expenditures at local attractions and amenities.