Indian River County Local Jobs Grant Program

Sep. 29, 2026

Indian River County offers a business environment that combines growth opportunity, workforce quality, and exceptional livability. To support business expansion and job creation, the County has established the Local Jobs Grant Program (LJGP), a performance-based incentive that rewards companies for creating new high-quality jobs. The program is designed to attract new businesses, support expansions by existing companies, and encourage long-term investment in Indian River County.

Program Highlights

  • Up to $1.5 million in total grant funding per project
  • Up to $500,000 in reimbursements annually
  • Up to a three-year job creation period
  • Performance-based reimbursement after jobs are verified
  • Available to both new and expanding businesses

Eligible Applicants

New Businesses

  • Companies establishing operations in Indian River County and creating new full-time jobs

Expanding Businesses

  • Existing Florida businesses expanding in Indian River County and creating additional employment opportunities

Minimum Requirements

  • Create at least 5 new full-time jobs during the first year
  • Jobs must be located at the Indian River County facility identified in the application
  • Company must remain current on taxes and free of outstanding liens, judgments, or code violations
  • Incentives must be approved before eligible jobs are created
 

 

Incentives That Reward High-Wage Jobs

The Local Jobs Grant Program is specifically designed to encourage the creation of higher-paying careers.

Wage Level

Incentive

100% to under 150% of County Average Wage

One-time grant equal to 20% of the County Average Wage for each eligible new job

150%+ of County Average Wage

One-time grant equal to 25% of 150% of the County Average Wage for each eligible new job

 

Target Industries

Indian River County encourages companies that support strategic economic growth and workforce opportunities. Target industries include:

  • Aviation & Aerospace
  • Advanced Manufacturing
  • Life Sciences
  • Healthcare & Medical Technology
  • Marine & Ocean Technologies
  • Corporate & Regional Headquarters
  • Logistics & Distribution
  • Information Technology
  • Professional & Technical Services
  • Research & Development Operations

Industry eligibility is evaluated based on County strategic priorities, the County Comprehensive Plan, and FloridaCommerce targeted industry classifications.

 

How the Program Works

1. Initial Consultation

Meet with the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce Economic Development, and/or Indian River County Economic Development staff to discuss the project and determine eligibility.

2. Application Submission

Provide information regarding operations, employment projections, wages, and investment plans.

3. Due Diligence & Impact Analysis

County staff and Chamber economic development professionals review the project and evaluate economic impact.

4. Economic Development Council Review

Qualified projects are reviewed and considered for recommendation.

5. County Commission Approval

The Indian River County Board of County Commissioners has final authority to approve, modify, or deny grant applications.

6. Job Creation & Reimbursement

After approval:

  • Jobs are created
  • Annual reports are submitted
  • Employment and wage levels are verified
  • Eligible grant reimbursements are paid to the business

 

Why Companies Choose Indian River County

Commerce: A business-friendly environment supported by leaders committed to economic development and responsible growth.

Culture: A nationally recognized arts, education, and nonprofit community that helps attract and retain talent.

Coast: Beautiful beaches, outdoor recreation, and an exceptional quality of life for employees and families.

Without the Crowds: Indian River County provides Florida's advantages while avoiding many of the congestion, overdevelopment, and quality-of-life challenges facing larger metropolitan areas. Businesses can expand operations, recruit talent, and invest confidently in a community that continues to grow strategically and sustainably.

 

Business Investment. Community Impact.

The Local Jobs Grant Program is more than a financial incentive. It is a partnership that supports:

  • High-quality employment opportunities
  • Private-sector investment
  • Economic diversification
  • Workforce development
  • Long-term community prosperity

Every grant dollar is tied directly to verified job creation and measurable economic outcomes.

 

Let's Talk About Your Project

Indian River County Chamber of Commerce
1216 21st Street
Vero Beach, FL 32960

772-567-3491 Ext. 121
brian@indianrivered.com

Commerce. Culture. Coast...Without the Crowds.

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