The Manufacturing Readiness Grants program is managed by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation in partnership with Conexus Indiana. Originally launched under the Economic Activity Stabilization and Enhancement initiative, this program has been extended through state legislative appropriation. It is designed to accelerate the adoption of smart manufacturing technologies by Indiana-based manufacturers.
These grants provide financial support to manufacturers undertaking transformative investments in technology. Eligible technologies include, but are not limited to, industrial internet of things (IIoT), additive manufacturing, cobots, artificial intelligence, machine learning, digital twins, and advanced data analytics. Projects must demonstrate a significant shift beyond standard automation or operational upgrades, aiming instead to catalyze innovation and long-term modernization of manufacturing processes.
Eligibility is limited to manufacturers operating within Indiana. While all manufacturers are eligible regardless of size, the program places particular emphasis on small- and medium-sized enterprises with fewer than 500 employees. Applicants must show how their project’s scope, feasibility, or timing is directly contingent on receiving grant support. Projects that have already commenced before application submission are ineligible.
Applications are evaluated through a peer review process conducted by a volunteer committee composed of Conexus Smart Manufacturing Fellows. These experts maintain confidentiality and recuse themselves in cases of conflict. Applications must be submitted via the Conexus portal during an active application window. Applicants should prepare a comprehensive project plan and justification as part of the submission.
As of April 21, 2025, the current funding cycle is closed due to full utilization of budgeted funds. However, the program is expected to reopen in early Q3 2025, pending continued state support. Applicants with in-progress submissions have been advised to contact the program administrator, and those who provided contact details will be automatically notified when applications reopen.
Interested parties may contact Jason Rychtarczyk at jrychtarczyk@conexusindiana.com for more information or to request a PDF copy of a pending application. No phone contact was provided. Potential applicants are encouraged to complete an interest form to stay informed on program updates and future openings.
Projects ready to launch with impactful, novel tech are favored
