Purdue University Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) and Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation (KEDCO) are collaborating to provide manufacturers in Kosciusko County with access to a grant discovery program.
Working with Purdue MEP, KEDCO members can pay a small fee for a subsidized membership to explore a comprehensive database of over 1,000 tax incentives, grants and other funding opportunities including federal, state and local programs, according to a news release from KEDCO.
"Through this program, manufacturers have access to a personalized report that matches their needs with available incentives at either the local or federal level. It takes the burden off busy manufacturers who would spend hours searching for this information," stated Ranae Stewart, senior executive director of Purdue MEP. "We’ve already seen success with several of our clients, and we appreciate KEDCO’s efforts to help us offer it to manufacturers in Kosciusko County."
"We’re thrilled to collaborate with Purdue MEP to help promote and connect our community to this opportunity," said KEDCO CEO Peggy Friday. "The grant discovery program is an invaluable tool for connecting our local businesses and municipalities to new resources to help them grow and prosper."
Par-Kan Company, a steel fabricator in Silver Lake, is leveraging the grant discovery program to secure funding for key initiatives. Through sources found in the grant discovery program, they are pursuing $200,000 for a capital investment project to bring advanced manufacturing technologies to their shop, including a high-performance laser fiber cutting machine with automation options to enhance efficiency and ergonomics. Additionally, they are exploring a free U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) energy assessment, which could unlock up to $300,000 in funding to implement recommended energy-saving projects.
"With the new laser, Par-Kan can create a better future for its employees through ergonomic improvements, improved efficiency, productivity, and quality of manufactured parts," stated Randy Kinsey, vice president of operations at Par-Kan.
Purdue MEP is dedicated to supporting small to medium-sized manufacturers across the state by providing access to high-quality training and consulting services. Offerings range from on-site workforce development to bridge the skills gap, to enhancing productivity and operational efficiencies and integrating advanced technologies into manufacturing processes. Purdue MEP and KEDCO are launching a series of leadership training workshops in the Warsaw area, see schedule and additional information at https://purdue.ws/WarsawWorkshops.
Kosciusko County members interested in learning more about the grant discovery program should contact KEDCO at [email protected] or 574-306-4119 to discuss the program.