GOSHEN, Ind. – Horizon Education Alliance (HEA) has been awarded a $745,000 Career Coaching Grant from the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE), marking the second consecutive year the organization has received this statewide recognition and funding. HEA is among 21 organizations selected to share in $15 million in total funding that will expand access to comprehensive career coaching and navigation services for Indiana students.

“Receiving this grant two years in a row reaffirms the impact of our work in helping young people discover meaningful career pathways and prepare for life after high school,” said Sarah Metzler, President and CEO of HEA. “We’re proud to represent northern Indiana in aligning education and workforce opportunities that help students succeed and strengthen our local economy.”

Gov. Mike Braun announced the awards, noting that “Indiana’s Career Coaching Grant reflects our commitment to helping students explore future career options and consider what makes the most sense for their future after high school graduation. This investment empowers students to grow their skills and talents, fill the gap in high-demand, good‑paying jobs, and step into a future where they can thrive, and our state can prosper.”

The Career Coaching Grant was established under Senate Enrolled Act 365 – 2025, which allocates $15 million to expand individualized career exploration across the state. Despite tighter funding this legislative session and a 37% increase in applicants, HEA’s continued selection underscores its proven results in reaching students with innovative and effective career readiness programs.

“Our primary purpose in K-12 education is to ensure every student graduates prepared for what’s next,” said Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana Secretary of Education. “This includes ensuring students have the knowledge and skills necessary for future success, and also, helping students to see the range of possibilities that exist for their future.”

Grantees were chosen for their ability to deliver high-quality, measurable career coaching services not currently available in the schools they serve. The current grant period runs through June 30, 2027.

Other recipients include organizations such as Junior Achievement of Northern Indiana, the Northern Indiana Educational Service Center, and the Center of Workforce Innovations.