INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC), in partnership with Conexus Indiana, has awarded grants totaling $2 million to 20 Indiana-based businesses.

 

Part of the Economic Activity Stabilization and Enhancement (EASE) program, the grants should should position the state's manufacturing sector for future growth and prosperity. 

 

“The response we received from Indiana businesses to the Manufacturing Readiness Grant program was incredible, as manufacturers across the state have been enduring the pandemic and are moving forward with positive momentum despite shared challenges,” said Indiana Secretary of Commerce Jim Schellinger. “We couldn’t be more grateful to these companies for contributing to Indiana’s bright economic future.” 

 

The 20 manufacturing businesses cover a wide range of industries. Several wood product companies made the cut:

 

Advanced Cabinet Systems, a furniture manufacturer serving the health care, educational, industrial and retail industries, received $83,000. The company is investing in equipment to modernize production.

 

Indiana Furniture Industries Inc., a contract furniture manufacturer providing customers with desk, chair and other office furnishings, received $90,879. The company is investing in technology to increase speed, reduce waste, enhance design capabilities and expand product offering within their seating operation.

 

Pike Lumber Company, a primary manufacturer of kiln dried hardwood lumber, received $95,320. Pike says its Indiana's largest manufacturer and distributor of kiln dried lumber. The company will invest in machining technology.