Gaps in high-skilled talent have become inhibitive for the growth of businesses in the South Bend region.
High Skill Immigration Fund aims:
- To fill critical gaps in high-demand jobs locally and to boost the regional economy
- To attract and retain high skilled talent in the South Bend region
- To educate and build capacity of local businesses to enable international talent sourcing
High Skill Immigration Fund Application 2025
Review the questions in the Application Preview (PDF) to prepare any information or materials you may need while filling out the application.
Please note: Applications must be submitted through the online application form. You may save your progress and return to the application later in the online form.
Frequently Asked Questions
General Program Info:
What is the High Skill Immigration Fund (HSIF)?
What is the High Skill Immigration Fund (HSIF)?
HSIF is a City of South Bend program offering partial reimbursement (up to $4,000 per person) to employers who have submitted H-1B petitions in 2025. It also includes support and training to help companies attract and retain international talent.
Who can apply for HSIF?
Who can apply for HSIF?
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Are subject to the H-1B visa lottery (not cap-exempt).
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Are incorporated in Indiana.
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Have an office in South Bend.
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Filed at least one H-1B petition in 2025 for the FY 2026 cycle.
What’s the deadline to apply?
What’s the deadline to apply?
May 30, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. ET.
When will award decisions be made?
When will award decisions be made?
By July 1, 2025.
Reimbursements:
How much funding can an organization receive?
How much funding can an organization receive?
Up to $4,000 per H-1B applicant, for a maximum of five (5) individuals.
Can I apply for reimbursement if the H-1B petition was denied or not selected?
Can I apply for reimbursement if the H-1B petition was denied or not selected?
Yes. You can apply for reimbursement regardless of petition outcome.
Who decides the reimbursement amount?
Who decides the reimbursement amount?
The City of South Bend review team, based on volume of applications and available funding.
Application Requirements:
What documents do I need to submit with the application?
What documents do I need to submit with the application?
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Certificate of incorporation (Indiana-based).
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Petition receipt number (screenshot acceptable) for each sponsored individual.
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Labor Condition Application (LCA) Form ETA-9035 & 9035E.
What is the maximum number of employees I can include?
What is the maximum number of employees I can include?
Five (5) H-1B candidates per organization.
Upcoming Events
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Resources
In the Media
Webinar Videos and Presentations Archive
Lunch and Learn Presentation from Mike Durham on February 18, 2025
Presentation Slides from Lunch and Learn on February 18, 2025
Webinar and Presentation from “HSIF Year 2 Webinar #1 : Hiring International Talent Through H-1B Visa Sponsorship”
Webinar recording of “Retaining International Talent”
Webinar recording from “How to Prepare for a Career in the United States.”
Webinar recording and presentation from “Attracting International Talent to your Business.”
Download the PowerPoint from the first webinar in the Talent Attraction and Retention series, “How to Hire International Talent Through H-1B Visa Sponsorship”:
Contact Us
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April Canahuati
acanahuati@southbendin.gov