State of Indiana Awards $995,000 Grant to Junior Achievement of Central Indiana

Part of a $15 million investment in education programs across Indiana

Author: Mariah Maier
Corporate Responsibility
Published: Wednesday, 28 Jan 2026

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Image caption: State Awards JA Central Indiana Grant for Investment in Education

Indianapolis, Ind. — Junior Achievement of Central Indiana (JA Central Indiana) is proud to announce it has been awarded $995,000 in state grant funding as part of a $15 million investment in education programs across Indiana. The funding was announced by Governor Mike Braun and is administered through the Indiana Department of Education under legislation passed by the Indiana General Assembly in 2025.

The competitive grant cycle reflected strong statewide demand, with a 37% increase in applications and more than $45 million in funding requests.

Jennifer Burk, President & CEO of JA Central Indiana, expressed gratitude for the state’s investment: “This investment reinforces the critical role education and career readiness play in Indiana’s long-term economic strength,” Burk added. “We are proud to partner with the state in preparing the next generation for continued success.”

During the 2024–2025 school year, JA Central Indiana served more than 71,000 students, providing immersive and experiential learning opportunities focused on work readiness, character building, financial capability, and entrepreneurship. JA programs empower students to connect classroom learning with real-world applications, helping them better understand how to own their future success.

The newly awarded funding will enable JA Central Indiana to expand program reach and continue delivering high-quality educational experiences that prepare young people to thrive in an evolving workforce.

Learn more & contact us! https://indy.ja.org.