KDF to begin $5.4M expansion project in Batesville

(BATESVILLE, Ind.) – Construction is expected to begin soon on a major renovation project at Kids Discovery Factory in Batesville. 

The goal of the project is to bring a world-class children’s museum to Southeast Indiana. 

The 10,000-square-foot facility will provide a hands-on learning environment for children to play, innovate and discover. 

“The new Kids Discovery Factory will be a regional destination that brings families, schools, and visitors to downtown Batesville, sparking curiosity and creativity while driving foot traffic to area businesses,” said KDF executive director Emili Uden. 

While construction is expected to begin soon, a formal groundbreaking will be held in October. The project is expected to be complete in mid-2026.

The project is estimated to cost $5.4 million and fundraising is still underway. 

KDF has already received support from the City of Batesville, the Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI) grant, Batesville Tool & Die’s building donation, and generous contributions from individual, foundation, and corporate donors. 

Local banks FCN and the Napoleon State Bank have partnered to provide construction financing as well.

“We’re building more than a museum—we’re building a brighter future for our children,” said Daryl Werner, Board President. “This space will be a place where kids can explore, dream, and develop the skills they need to succeed in an ever-changing world.” 

The KDF facility will remain closed during the construction, however, the organization plans to continue serving children and families during the renovation period. 

Some of those activities include pop-up play events, mobile school and community programs, summer camps, classes and afterschool programs. 

You can get more information about their programming as well as the construction process by clicking here.

A World Of Discovery

When the new museum opens, families will step into a world of discovery—where engineering and manufacturing come to life, exhibits invite kids to explore water, air, light, and dramatic play, and invention, design, and art studios spark creativity while doubling as unique spaces for special celebrations.

The museum will be open six days a week and offer family memberships, year-round educational programs, school visits, community events, and hands-on STEAM experiences for families that will impact tens of thousands of people across southeastern Indiana every year.