Zone Residents

Our scholarship application can be found at https://civiform.bloomington.in.gov/programs. 

Please email buea@bloomington.in.gov with any questions about the following items.

Resident Economic Independence Scholarship                   

For residents who have lived in the Zone for at least 12 months. Up to $750/semester for two semesters.

• This is a biannual grant cycle. A maximum of ten grants will be awarded in both the spring and fall.
• The spring submission window is open from Feb 15 to July 15. The fall submission window is open from July 15 to December 15.
• Residents who have lived in the Zone for at least 12 months may apply for a scholarship to attend post-secondary classes to further their economic independence. Check your address here - Link to check address.
• The scholarship can be applied to any course (college, trade school, or other special training) that advances the applicant's skills as a workforce member.
• The BUEA will pay for two classes, including textbooks, or up to $750.00 a semester, whichever is less, up to a lifetime maximum of $1,500.00 in educational assistance.
• Funds are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Applications must be received at least one month before the start of the class(es) being paid for with the scholarship.    

The Mill Day Pass Program

For residents who live in the Zone. Up to 1-day pass per month through December 31, 2025, to work at the Mill—Bloomington's Center for Coworking and Entrepreneurship, located at 642 N. Madison St. (Just north of City Hall and across from Upland Brewing). 

Reserve your work area here - link to the calendar!

Employee Income Tax Deduction (IC 6-3-2-8)

Employees who live and work in an enterprise zone may qualify for an income tax deduction. To qualify, the employee must:

• Work for a business, nonprofit, or government entity in the enterprise zone.
• Spend at least 90% of their work time on tasks related to the business in the zone.
• Perform at least 50% of their work in the zone during the year.
• Live in the enterprise zone.

The tax deduction is the smaller amount of:

• 50% of their income earned in the zone, or
• $7,500.

Qualified Employee Deduction Certificate (IT-40QEC) Form