Build-vs-Buy Training Costing
For each feeder pool: what closing the skill gap costs versus the wage premium of hiring ready-made, with OJT and WOTC subsidies netted in.
Built from Feeder-pool wage gaps against the ready-made hire, with Indiana OJT reimbursement and federal WOTC netted in
Answers build-versus-buy in dollars rather than in principle. Subsidies are netted at the point of comparison, which is where most build-versus-buy analyses quietly overstate the cost of training.
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Programs that fit this work
Add roles to your set and these rank to your own hiring. Eligibility is set by each program, not by us.
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Power Up Indiana DWD State
Reimburses companies up to $5,000 per trainee ($50,000 max per company) for employee training that results in industry-recognized credentials, cross-training/reskilling, leadership development, or registered apprenticeships. Minimum starting wage: $23.50/hr.
Who qualifies: Indiana employers registered with Secretary of State, with physical IN location, current DWD unemployment tax account. Nonprofits NOT eligible.
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Skills Enhancement Fund (SEF) IEDC State
Reimburses businesses (typically 50%) for eligible training costs over 2 years. Training must lead to postsecondary credentials, industry credentials, or specialized training resulting in wage increases. Tied to new capital investment.
Who qualifies: Indiana businesses supporting training tied to new capital investment. Training must lead to credentials or specialized skills resulting in wage increases.
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Employer Training Grant (Next Level Jobs) DWD State
Reimburses Indiana employers up to $5,000 per employee ($50,000 max) for training that results in industry-recognized credentials. Covers 6 priority sectors plus early childhood education.
Who qualifies: Indiana employers registered with Secretary of State, with physical Indiana location, current DWD unemployment tax account. Must train in priority sectors: adva…
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Section 127 Employer Educational Assistance IRS Federal
Employers can provide up to $5,250/year tax-free per employee for tuition, fees, books, and student loan repayment. Made permanent by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (July 2025). Indexed for inflation starting 2026.
Who qualifies: Any employer with a written Section 127 educational assistance plan. Employees receiving the benefit. Cannot discriminate in favor of highly compensated employe…
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Indiana R&D Tax Credit DOR State
State tax credit of 15% on the first $1 million in qualified research expenses plus 10% above $1 million for companies conducting R&D in Indiana.
Who qualifies: Indiana businesses with qualified research expenses (QREs) in Indiana. Generally follows federal IRC Section 41 definitions.