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Refrigerated Warehouse Company Expanding in Johnson County

2012-02-10T12:11:00.000+01:00

FRANKLIN, Ind. (Feb. 9, 2012) - Interstate Warehousing, Inc., a Tippmann Group company, announced plans today to expand its operations here, creating up to 50 new jobs by 2014.

The refrigerated warehouse company will invest $26 million throughout two phases beginning with the expansion of the company's current 428,000 square-foot facility by 140,000 square feet. The expanded portion of the cold storage facility is slated to be fully-operational by July.

"At the heart of the nation, Indiana's extensive infrastructure serves 80 percent of the nation's population within a day's drive," said Dan Hasler, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. "Innovative and adaptive logistics companies like Interstate Warehousing recognize the advantage of being in the best location and the Hoosier State provides precisely that."

Interstate Warehousing, which currently has 175 full-time employees in Indiana, plans to begin hiring additional warehouse associates this summer.

"Over the past few years, we have seen solid growth from the customers that we service out of our Franklin facility," said Chuck Tippmann, president of Tippmann Group. "In order to keep up with that customer growth, we are continuing to expand our operations in Franklin. We anticipate future growth in the coming years and have a master site plan in place that will allow this facility to expand even further as our customers continue to grow their respective business."

Founded in 1972, the Fort Wayne-based company operates additional cold-storage facilities in Ohio, Michigan, Colorado, Illinois, Virginia and Tennessee. Interstate Warehousing is among the top-ten public refrigerated warehouse companies in North America with more than 80,000,000 cubic-feet of refrigerated and frozen storage space throughout the country.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Interstate Warehousing, Inc. up to $200,000 in conditional tax credits and up to $100,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. The city of Franklin approved additional property tax abatement and tax-increment financing at the request of the Johnson County Development Corporation.

"It is a privilege to have a company like Interstate Warehousing located in Franklin," said Franklin Mayor Joe McGuiness. "I am extremely excited for their expansion and improvements in our community. They are an asset to our city, county and state. In the future, I look forward to assisting in their continued growth."

Interstate Warehousing's expansion comes just two weeks after Sunshine Manufacturing, a producer of tanning products and lotions, announced plans to relocate a manufacturing facility from Tempe, Ariz. to nearby Indianapolis, creating up to 180 new jobs through 2015.

About Interstate Warehousing
Interstate Warehousing, Inc., a Tippmann Group company, offers more than 50 years of experience in the refrigeration industry, specializing in management and construction of refrigerated and frozen distribution centers. Interstate Warehousing has 8 facilities located throughout the U.S. and offers customized distribution programs. Tippmann Group is also a design and build construction company for new builds, expansions or renovations.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

IEDC Board Passes Resolution in Support of Right-To-Work Laws

2012-02-09T10:44:00.002+01:00

INDIANAPOLIS - The board of directors of the Indiana Economic Development Corp. (IEDC) voted today to approve a resolution in support of right-to-work laws for the state of Indiana.

"The last seven years of IEDC experience tell us that Indiana is blocked from too many job opportunities because we do not provide right-to-work protection to our workers," said John Mutz, former president of PSI Energy and member of the IEDC board of directors and chairman of the policy committee. "Especially in this tough national economy, it's a handicap."

"I know 'right to work' is not a cure-all, but given the call of the General Assembly to create a business-friendly tax and regulation environment, Hoosiers cannot continue to eliminate ourselves from opportunity based on our adherence to compulsory unionism," said Bob Taylor, president and chief executive officer of Do it Best Corp. and member of the IEDC board of directors and policy committee. "I believe Indiana should be a right-to-work state so that we can maximize our opportunities for economic development."

As IEDC board chairman, Governor Mitch Daniels does not vote on motions and did not vote on today's resolution.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Toyota to Consolidate Highlander Production to Princeton Plant, Add More Than 400 Jobs

2012-02-09T10:31:00.001+01:00

PRINCETON, Ind. (Feb. 8, 2012) - Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana, Inc. (TMMI) announced plans today to expand its operations here, creating approximately 400 new jobs by 2013.

The company will invest $400 million total with $131 million going directly to its Princeton plant to consolidate its Highlander mid-size SUV production to this location, including both hybrid and export versions. Production is expected to begin in late-2013 with annual Highlander production volume expected to increase by approximately 50,000 units at TMMI.

"The Hoosier State has made great strides towards providing the best possible business climate in the nation and having a multi-national company like Toyota consolidate operations to Indiana and produce one of our state's first hybrid vehicles is evidence to the success we've achieved," said Governor Mitch Daniels.

Established in Gibson County in 1996, Toyota's Princeton plant was the second recognized wholly-owned Toyota plant in North America. TMMI currently employs 4,800 associates, of which 4,000 are Hoosiers, and builds the Highlander, Sequoia full-size SUV and Sienna minivan at its Princeton facility. The hiring of new manufacturing associates will coincide with facility and machinery upgrades.

"This project allows for better utilization of the Indiana plant, and will help Toyota capitalize on the improving North American and global auto market," said Steve St. Angelo, executive vice president of Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. "In addition to new jobs at the Indiana plant, this project will increase opportunities and jobs for our North American supply base."

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana, Inc. up to $2.7 million in conditional tax credits and up to $200,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. Gibson County will consider additional incentives at the request of the Gibson County Economic Development Corporation.

"Toyota has been an integral part of the Princeton community, not only with the employment of our residents but also with the infusion of millions of dollars into the local community," said Princeton Mayor Robert Hurst. "The company's charitable donations have also been significant with more than $13 million given to local charities and schools and for that we are very grateful."

About Toyota
Toyota (NYSE:TM) established operations in North America in 1957 and currently operates 14 manufacturing plants here. There are more than 1,800 Toyota, Lexus and Scion dealerships in North America which sold nearly 2 million vehicles in 2011. Toyota directly employs more than 35,000 in North America and its investment here is currently valued at more than $23 billion, including sales and manufacturing operations, research and development, financial services and design. Toyota's annual purchasing of parts, materials, goods and services from North American suppliers totals nearly $25 billion. Toyota currently produces 12 vehicles in North America, including the Avalon, Camry, Corolla, Highlander, Matrix, RAV4, Sienna, Sequoia, Tacoma, Tundra, Venza and the Lexus RX 350. For more information about Toyota, visit www.toyota.com or www.toyotanewsroom.com.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Lotion Manufacturer to Move Facility from Arizona to Indianapolis

2012-02-02T14:53:00.000+01:00

INDIANAPOLIS (Jan. 27, 2012) - Sunshine Manufacturing, LLC, a subsidiary of New Sunshine, LLC, announced plans today to relocate a manufacturing facility from Tempe, Ariz. to here, creating up to 180 new jobs through 2015.

The company, which produces tanning products and lotions, plans to occupy a 105,000 square-foot facility located at 4760 Kentucky Ave. in Indianapolis to serve as the company's primary manufacturing facility in North America. The facility is expected to be operational this spring.

"Our manufacturing sector continues to see significant growth and Sunshine's announcement is another boost to this important segment of our economy," said Governor Mitch Daniels. "While the company could have moved its operations to just about any state, our business-friendly economy and highly-skilled workforce ensured Indiana was at the top of their list."

New Sunshine, which employs more than 220 full-time employees across three locations nationwide, plans to begin hiring new manufacturing and administrative associates in Indianapolis this spring.

"Indiana's competitive business climate and skilled workforce were the driving forces behind our decision to relocate our manufacturing operations to Indianapolis," said Eric Weber, president of New Sunshine. "We appreciate the commitment of the city of Indianapolis and the state of Indiana for their support of our continued growth."

Founded in 1987, New Sunshine has grown to be the leading supplier of tanning lotions to the more than 12,000 indoor tanning salons across the nation. Its portfolio of brands, which include Australian Gold, Designer Skin, Swedish Beauty and California Tan, are sold around the world. Additionally, Australian Gold's sun care products are the fastest growing brand in the $1.5 billion sun care category and can be found in more than 27,000 retail outlets nationwide as well as internationally.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Sunshine Manufacturing, LLC up to $900,000 in conditional tax credits and up to $75,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. The city of Indianapolis will consider additional property tax abatement at the request of Develop Indy.

"Indianapolis is catching the attention of companies from across the nation, thanks to our central location and low cost of doing business," said Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard. "Sunshine's investment in our city and the addition of quality jobs for our workforce prove that our stable, affordable and pro-growth economic environment makes for a great place in which to do business."

About Sunshine Manufacturing
Sunshine Manufacturing, LLC is the manufacturing subsidiary of New Sunshine, LLC which is headquartered in Indianapolis. Sunshine Manufacturing produces the leading family of indoor tanning lotion brands including Australian Gold, Designer Skin, California Tan and Swedish Beauty.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

TeleServices Direct Opens Call Center in Madison County

2012-01-26T09:32:00.001+01:00

ANDERSON, Ind. (Jan. 25, 2012) - Career Horizons, Inc. d/b/a TeleServices Direct announced plans today to locate a new call center here, creating up to 180 new jobs by 2015.

The Indianapolis-headquartered company is a global provider of outsourced inbound and outbound call center services. It will invest $1 million to lease and equip a 15,000 square-foot facility at 2903 Enterprise Dr. in Anderson's Flagship Business Park. The new call center, which opened its doors yesterday, will handle services for the company's U.S. customers relating to wireless communications and internet connectivity.

"It's encouraging to see a Hoosier home-grown company with an international presence like TeleServices Direct continue to invest in our state," said Governor Mitch Daniels. "Companies like TeleServices continue to show that Indiana has the most attractive business climate in the country."

TeleServices Direct, which currently has 900 employees in Indiana and more than 1,200 employees globally, plans to begin hiring telephone sales representatives and administrative associates this month. Interested applicants should apply in-person, call 765.221.7455 or view more information at www.teleservicesdirect.com.

"We like to keep our U.S. call centers in Indiana, where possible, because of the proximity to our corporate offices," said Patricia Totton, chief executive officer of TeleServices Direct. "Anderson was picked specifically because of its solid labor force and the existing infrastructure we found at the site to support the growth of our business."

Established in 1989 as a direct marking company, TeleServices Direct has since evolved into an international provider of call center services with facilities in the U.S., Philippines and Jamaica. The company has an established history with many Fortune 500 companies and has been consistently recognized in Customer Interaction Solutions magazine's annual industry report as one of the top call center operations in the world.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Career Horizons, Inc. up to $1,000,000 in conditional tax credits and up to $100,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. The city of Anderson will consider additional property tax abatement.

"We welcome TeleServices Direct to Anderson," said Anderson Mayor Kevin Smith. "Anderson is a strong community for business and job growth and with the addition of TeleServices we add an additional IT services operation to our community. We look forward to the success of TeleServices in Anderson and their additional job and investment growth in the days to come."

TeleServices Direct joins the growing list of home-grown Hoosier firms expanding their operations in Indiana. Last month, Daniels joined executives from Fishers-headquartered Stratosphere Quality and Indianapolis-based Archway Technologies to announce the companies' new investments in Indiana expected to create a combined 365 new jobs over the next four years.

About TeleServices Direct
TeleServices Direct commenced operations in Indianapolis more than 20 years ago. Today, it has a worldwide presence with each call center featuring state-of-the-art predictive outbound, inbound and call blending technology. The company has comprehensive agent training and quality control programs, meticulously managed compliance procedures and an established history with many Fortune 500 companies.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.
The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Global Aluminum Producer to Expand in Tippecanoe County

2012-01-26T09:31:00.000+01:00

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (Jan. 25, 2012) - Alcoa, Inc. (NYSE:AA), a fully integrated producer of aluminum used in beverage cans, aircraft and window frames, announced plans today to expand its operations here, creating up to 75 new jobs by 2013.

The company will invest more than $90 million to expand its aluminum lithium capacity and capabilities and construct an approximately 115,000 square-foot facility adjacent to the company's Lafayette plant to meet growing demand in the aerospace market for its newest alloys. Initial facility construction has already begun with plant production expected to begin by the end of 2014. When completed, the facility will produce more than 20,000 metric tons of aluminum lithium and be capable of casting round and rectangular ingot for rolled, extruded and forged aerospace applications.

"Alcoa's expansion strengthens Indiana's reputation of manufacturing excellence," said Governor Mitch Daniels. "We are grateful that this global manufacturing leader continues to find the Hoosier State the most advantageous state for growth."

Founded more than 120 years ago, Alcoa employs approximately 61,000 people in more than 200 locations in 31 countries. In Indiana alone, the company employs more than 3,200 associates at four locations across the state. In 2011, the company had overall sales of $25 billion with its aerospace businesses producing approximately $3 billion in revenue.

"The demand we are seeing for aluminum lithium is an excellent example of the Alcoa technical advantage in action and is the result of our continued leadership in aerospace alloy development across our Alcoa aerospace businesses," said Eric Roegner, president of Alcoa Forged and Extruded Products. "When completed, our Lafayette aluminum lithium facility will be the premier operation in the world, capable of making the widest breadth of products in the most efficient manner - there will be nothing like it anywhere."

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Alcoa, Inc. up to $650,000 in conditional tax credits and up to $200,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. The city of Lafayette will consider additional property tax abatement at the request of the Greater Lafayette Commerce.

"This is a milestone announcement for Lafayette, a significant investment, not only in new construction and capital expenditures, but, even more important, in our people, our workforce," said Lafayette Mayor Tony Roswarski. "Jobs-good jobs-are the heartbeat of a community. With this news, Lafayette's heart is indeed strong and healthy, with Alcoa a contributor to that since it first began manufacturing in our community in 1938."

About Alcoa
Alcoa is the world's leading producer of primary and fabricated aluminum, as well as the world's largest miner of bauxite and refiner of alumina. In addition to inventing the modern-day aluminum industry, Alcoa innovation has been behind major milestones in the aerospace, automotive, packaging, building and construction, commercial transportation, consumer electronics and industrial markets over the past 120 years. Among the solutions Alcoa markets are flat-rolled products, hard alloy extrusions and forgings, as well as Alcoa® wheels, fastening systems, precision and investment castings and building systems in addition to its expertise in other light metals such as titanium and nickel-based super alloys. Sustainability is an integral part of Alcoa's operating practices and the product design and engineering it provides to customers. Alcoa has been a member of the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for 10 consecutive years and approximately 75 percent of all of the aluminum ever produced since 1888 is still in active use today. Alcoa employs approximately 61,000 people in 31 countries across the world. More information can be found at www.alcoa.com.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Pet Supplies Plus to Relocate Operations to Seymour from Michigan

2012-01-26T09:30:00.000+01:00

SEYMOUR, Ind. (Jan. 24, 2012) - Pet Supplies Plus (PSP) announced plans today to relocate its warehousing operations from southeastern Michigan to here, creating up to 135 new jobs by 2016.

The pet specialty retailer plans to lease and equip a 763,000 square-foot facility at 1510 E. Fourth St. in Seymour. The consolidation and expansion will more than double the company's capacity to support its existing and planned retail store customer-base. PSP plans to begin shipping to customers in August from its Seymour location.

"Indiana's business climate is a magnet for growing companies across the country," said Governor Mitch Daniels. "We are happy that PSP, like many businesses before, has discovered that our unparalleled infrastructure and first-rate workforce make Indiana the premier place to expand their business."

Founded in 1988 in Farmington Hills, Mich., PSP was originally designed according to the grocery store-model and was the first pet shop with wide aisles and organized, well-stocked display shelves. Today, there are approximately 10 PSP stores throughout Indiana employing approximately 200 Hoosiers.

"This investment supports our customers who can expect substantial service improvements, a broader range of products and the highest level of availability in the industry," said Todd Pankey, PSP senior vice president of supply chain. "We appreciate the commitment from Indiana and Seymour who have supported the company with incentives to relocate to the area."

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Pet Supplies Plus up to $850,000 in conditional tax credits and up to $75,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. The city of Seymour approved additional property tax abatement at the request of the Jackson County Industrial Development Corporation.

"With our location along Interstate 65, we are well-positioned to attract major logistics companies and we are thrilled PSP selected Seymour for its new distribution center," said Seymour Mayor Craig Luedeman. "Our area has seen solid growth over the past year and PSP's decision gets 2012 off to a great start for us."

About Pet Supplies Plus
Pet Supplies Plus is the third-largest pet specialty retailer in the United States with 258 stores in 22 states. PSP operates a unique combination of company-owned and franchised stores in convenient neighborhood locations and offers a broad assortment of pet food and supplies at competitive prices. PSP was acquired by Irving Place Capital in September 2010 and is headquartered in Farmington Hills, Mich. More information about PSP is available at www.petsuppliesplus.com.

About Irving Place Capital
Irving Place Capital is a middle-market private equity firm that invests in compelling buyouts, recapitalizations and growth capital opportunities. The firm focuses on making control or entrepreneur-driven investments in companies where it can apply its substantial operating and strategic resources and expertise to enhance value. Irving Place Capital is proactively targeting the pet sector for additional investment opportunities. Since its formation in 1997, Irving Place Capital has been an investor in more than 55 companies and has raised over $4 billion of equity capital, including its current $2.7 billion institutional fund. More information about Irving Place Capital is available at www.irvingplacecapital.com.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

ConAgra Foods Growing in Jasper County

2012-01-23T09:24:00.001+01:00

RENSSELAER, Ind. (Jan. 20, 2012) - ConAgra Foods, Inc. (NYSE:CAG), one of North America's leading food companies, announced plans today to expand its Orville Redenbacher's microwave popcorn operations here, creating up to 24 new jobs by 2014.

The Fortune 500 company plans to invest $15.6 million to upgrade its manufacturing capabilities at its Rensselaer plant. ConAgra Foods plans to remodel its quality assurance laboratory, redesign its corn, slurry and salt systems and add four microwave popcorn packaging lines.

"As the birthplace of Orville Redenbacher's popcorn, our state's rich heritage coupled with ConAgra Foods' continued commitment to growth in Indiana has put the Hoosier state on the map as the popcorn capital of the world," said Dan Hasler, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.

ConAgra Foods, which currently has more than 200 full-time employees in Indiana, has already begun hiring new production line associates.

"ConAgra Foods and the Rensselaer facility are excited to continue the enduring partnership between Orville Redenbacher popcorn and the state of Indiana," said Ken Dobin, manager of the Rensselaer plant. "Rensselaer's centralized location and quality workforce, along with the state's current business climate and economic development record, provide a fantastic opportunity for ConAgra Foods, the state of Indiana and the Rensselaer community."

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered ConAgra Foods, Inc. up to $175,000 in conditional tax credits based on the company's job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. The city of Rensselaer approved additional property tax abatement at the request of the Jasper County Economic Development Organization.

"ConAgra Foods has been an industry leader in the Rensselaer community for many years and we are very, very proud of their successful record of growth and profitability," said Rensselaer Mayor Herbert Arihood. "In tough economic times, it is pleasing that ConAgra Foods is adding production capacity and employment at their Rensselaer facility and we're honored to support their efforts."

ConAgra Foods' expansion comes on the heels of the IEDC's recent announcement that it secured job commitments from 219 companies from across the country and around the world in 2011. Non-automotive manufacturing represented the largest sector for new job commitments last year with 5,223 new jobs projected.

About ConAgra Foods
ConAgra Foods, Inc., (NYSE: CAG), is one of North America's leading food companies, with brands in 97 percent of America's households. Consumers find Banquet, Chef Boyardee, Egg Beaters, Hebrew National, Hunt's, Marie Callender's, Orville Redenbacher's, PAM, Peter Pan, Reddi-wip, Slim Jim, Snack Pack and many other ConAgra Foods brands in grocery, convenience, mass merchandise and club stores. ConAgra Foods also has a strong business-to-business presence, supplying frozen potato and sweet potato products as well as other vegetable, spice and grain products to a variety of well-known restaurants, foodservice operators and commercial customers. For more information, please visit us at www.conagrafoods.com.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

NantWorks to Invest $85.5 Million in New Vigo County Facility

2012-01-23T09:23:00.000+01:00

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (Jan. 10, 2012) - California-based NantWorks, LLC, announced plans today to locate a new pharmaceutical manufacturing plant here, creating up to 234 new jobs by 2016.

The pharmaceutical company plans to invest $85.5 million to redevelop the former Pfizer facility on approximately 210 acres on the south side of Terre Haute. The new manufacturing plant, which is expected to be operational in 2015, will produce critical care injectable and oncological drugs.

"With the strength of our life sciences industry and a first-class work force, it's no surprise that innovative companies from high-tax, business-hostile states continue to choose Indiana as the home for new investment," said Governor Mitch Daniels. "With its established executive leadership and groundbreaking pharmaceutical research, NantWorks has all the right ingredients to flourish in the Hoosier State."

Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, chairman and chief executive officer of NantWorks, has previously developed two pharmaceutical companies addressing the unmet needs of critically ill patients. His injectable drug company APP was the nation's only safe source of heparin during a supply crisis in 2008 and his biopharmaceutical company Abraxis Bioscience developed the world's first protein nanoparticle cancer drug for breast cancer. Soon-Shiong sold these companies in 2008 and 2010, raising several billion dollars to pursue his vision of personalized medicine.

"As a country, we need to develop and enhance our capabilities to manufacture injectable and next generation drugs in America," said Soon-Shiong. "This plant is a sign of NantWorks' commitment to that objective. I am delighted to share in the vision of Governor Daniels and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation and I am excited to be getting back into the injectable biopharmaceutical industry."

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered NantWorks, LLC up to $2,000,000 in conditional tax credits and up to $100,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. Vigo County will consider additional property tax abatement at the request of the Terre Haute Economic Development Corporation.

"NantWorks' proposed acquisition and subsequent redevelopment of the former Pfizer property exceeds our greatest expectations for the property," said Mike Ciolli, president of the Vigo County Board of Commissioners. "We couldn't be more thrilled."

About NantWorks
NantWorks, LLC is a company founded and led by Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong. Its core mission is to converge a wide range of technologies to transform scientific research and healthcare. It is building an integrated evidence-based, genomically-informed, personalized approach to the delivery of care and the development of next generation diagnostics and therapeutics. For more information, see www.nantworks.com.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Automotive Engineering Firm Adding High-Wage Jobs in Northern Indiana

2012-01-09T10:34:00.001+01:00

ALBION, Ind. (Jan. 6, 2012) - Vehicle Control Solutions, Inc. (VCS), an automotive engineering company, announced plans today to expand its operations here, creating up to 70 high-wage jobs by 2014.

The company, which provides embedded electronics hardware and software for vehicle systems, will invest $712,000 to lease 9,900 square-feet of space and remodel into office and lab space at 71 E. 400 S. in Albion. VCS will also upgrade and purchase computers and software systems.

"We're not surprised that a high-tech company like VCS has chosen to expand in Indiana and reaffirm the confidence companies have in our business climate," said Governor Mitch Daniels. "Through our world-class universities and talented workforce, Indiana has become a hub for technical and engineering innovation."

VCS, which currently has 18 full-time employees in Indiana, has already begun hiring additional hardware, software, components and computer-aided-design engineers. The highly-skilled positions will earn an average salary of $85,000. Interested candidates should apply at www.v-c-s-inc.com.

"Northeast Indiana provides a workforce with a diverse skill set, attractive cost of living, great schools and recreational opportunities along with the business environment and location to grow and sustain an engineering services business," said Mark Bryant, co-founder and director of VCS. "This provides the fuel we need to grow. We have opportunities for significant growth throughout the coming years."

VCS was formed five years ago by Mark Bryant and Russell Smith, two veterans in the software, electronic hardware design and product development industry. A member of the Freescale Design Alliance, the company also provides specific circuit design, software module development and testing services for its customers.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Vehicle Control Solutions, Inc. up to $1 million in conditional tax credits and up to $62,500 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. The Noble County Council approved additional property tax abatement.

"The County Council and all of Noble County are very excited to see the expansion of VCS," said Don Moore, president of the Noble County Council. "They will not only be bringing higher paying jobs to Noble County, but employees that will be looking to relocate to the County. We thank VCS for their investment in Noble County and look forward to working with them in future endeavors."

The Hoosier State is home to some of the nation's top ranked engineering programs, including Purdue's number one ranked biological and agricultural engineering program and Rose-Hulman's number one ranked undergraduate engineering program. Last year, Indiana's institutions of higher education produced more than 5,400 new engineering graduates.

About Vehicle Control Solutions
VCS provides electronic hardware and embedded software engineering services with the agility of a small company and the experience of a large corporation. Customer-specific or industry standard design, process, engineering and manufacturing practices are followed to produce a high-value product. For more information about Vehicle Control Services, visit www.v-c-s-inc.com.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Granite Memorial Company Expanding in Scottsburg

2012-01-09T10:33:00.003+01:00

SCOTTSBURG, Ind. (Jan. 5, 2012) - Buchanan Group Services, LLC, owners and operators of Flanner and Buchanan Funeral Centers, announced plans today to expand its operations here, creating up to 24 new jobs by 2015.

The Indianapolis-based company will invest $2.3 million to construct a new 17,500 square-foot building for granite memorial production. Construction of this new facility is slated to begin this spring.

"We're always excited to see an Indiana-headquartered company with a rich history like Buchanan Group continue to expand and call Indiana home," said Dan Hasler, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. "Creating an environment that encourages growth in companies like these is essential to our state's economic success."

Buchanan Group, which currently has 300 full-time employees in Indiana, plans to begin hiring additional production, delivery and installation associates this spring.

"We appreciate the business friendly climate in Indiana and are pleased to stay and grow new business in our home state," said Bruce W. Buchanan, principal of Buchanan Group. "Our acquisition, Fewell Monument Company, pioneered monument laser technology years ago and their library of designs is the envy of the industry. We will capitalize on this fact while creating jobs and constructing a better building in Scottsburg. As personalized funerals have become the norm, we see tremendous potential to grow our Indiana-based business nationally."

Founded more than 130 years ago, Buchanan Group and its associated companies are owned and operated by Bruce and Brian Buchanan, who represent the fourth generation of family-ownership. In 1999, Buchanan Group became the manager of the cemeteries belonging to the Archdiocese of Indianapolis. In 2008, the company's Washington Park Cemetery built and dedicated the state's first memorial to the Indiana National Guard.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Buchanan Group Services, LLC up to $100,000 in conditional tax credits and up to $32,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. The city of Scottsburg will consider additional property tax abatement.

"Buchanan Group has been a very good community partner and we appreciate their continued support and investment in our city," said Scottsburg Mayor Bill Graham. "We're very excited about these expansions plans and the addition of more jobs in Scottsburg. In a time when the national economy is underperforming, this news is a bright light."

Buchanan Group's announcement comes just one month after Rivera Consulting Group, a technical services firm specializing in U.S. Department of Defense software applications, announced plans to expand its operations and construct a new headquarters in nearby Clark County. As part of the project, the company will invest $5.6 million and create up to 85 new high-wage jobs by 2015.

About Buchanan Group
Buchanan Group, and its premier business, Flanner and Buchanan Funeral Centers, was established in 1881. It is one of Indiana's oldest companies that has been continuously run by the same family. Based in Indianapolis, Buchanan Group services Indiana communities with the broadest network of funeral homes (14) and cemeteries (15). More than the sale of funeral and cemetery services, Buchanan Group works with and empowers its clients to create meaningful end-of-life memorials for their loved ones. More recently, the company has expanded through diversification into complimentary products such as granite memorials and a national casket distribution business.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Machining Company to Locate Facility in Whitley County

2012-01-09T10:33:00.001+01:00

COLUMBIA CITY, Ind. (Jan. 4, 2012) - Impact CNC, LLC, a production machining company, announced plans today to establish a new facility here, creating up to 106 new jobs by 2014.

The company will invest $12.87 million to purchase and equip a 30,000 square-foot facility at the Gateway Park in Whitley County. The new facility, which plans to be operational in February, will offer computer numerical control (CNC) services for customers in the automotive, heavy-truck and agricultural industries.

"Indiana's manufacturing sector is continuing to see healthy growth and Impact CNC's announcement only reinforces that," said Governor Mitch Daniels. "We've been able to create an environment that promotes sustainable business practices through our low-tax policies and nationally-ranked business climate."

Impact CNC plans to begin hiring CNC operators, supervisors and support staff in the coming months. Interested applicants should apply at www.impactcnc.net.

"I look forward to establishing Impact CNC in Whitley County," said Jerry Busche, founder and president of Impact CNC. "For this project I considered a number of sites in the Midwest, but once again found that Indiana provided the right location to grow the company in the years ahead."

Impact CNC is the second venture started by Jerry Busche to locate in Whitley County in as many years, joining PDQ Workholding, a manufacturer of hydraulic fixtures and workholding solutions for the CNC machining industry. In 2010, PDQ Workholding announced plans to invest more than $3.8 million to lease and equip a neighboring facility in Gateway Park.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Impact CNC, LLC up to $550,000 in conditional tax credits an up to $80,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. The Whitley County Council approved additional property tax abatement at the request of the Whitley County Economic Development Corporation.

"On behalf of the Whitley County Commissioners, we greatly appreciate that Mr. Busche has again decided to launch a business venture in our community," said Don Amber, president of the Whitley County Board of Commissioners. "It is very meaningful to see business owners like Jerry continue to stay, invest and create jobs in our community."

Impact CNC's announcement comes just two weeks after Poly-Wood, a manufacturer of outdoor furniture, announced plans to expand its operations in nearby Kosciusko County. As part of the project, the company will invest $2.78 million and create up to 50 new jobs by 2015.

About Impact CNC
Impact CNC, LLC possesses a broad range of production machining capabilities. The company is headquartered in Columbia City, Ind. and is led by several industry veterans including Jerry Busche, Warren Cole and Aaron Schoon.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

219 Companies Choose Indiana in 2011

2012-01-09T10:31:00.002+01:00

INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Economic Development Corporation announced today that in 2011 it secured job commitments from 219 companies from across the country and around the world, an increase from 200 companies in 2010 and more than any other year on record.

"With our low-cost, fiscally sound business climate, Indiana continues to catch the attention and win the investment of more and more companies," said Dan Hasler, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.

Driven by companies like Angie's List, Canadian National Railway, R3 Composites and SS&C Technologies, Indiana welcomed commitments for 19,080 new jobs and $2.7 billion in capital investment in 2011. The new jobs, many of which have already been created and others companies expect to create over the next five years, pay an average hourly wage of $21.22, above the state's current hourly wage of $19.17.

"This year's results are a testament to the dedication and collaboration of people throughout the state," said Hasler. "But there's more hard work ahead in 2012 as Indiana continues to make job creating efforts our top priority."

Non-automotive manufacturing represented the largest sector for new job commitments in 2011 with 5,223 new jobs projected. With 4,650 job commitments, the automotive-related manufacturing industry represented the second largest sector of new growth followed by the logistics sector with nearly 2,000 projected new jobs. Job commitments for other sectors include: business services (1,729), information technology (1,261) and life sciences (838).

Business consolidations were a trend in 2011 with 34 companies planning to move all or a portion of their operations to Indiana. Collectively, these projects accounted for 3,325 new job commitments and $165.6 million in capital investment.

This year the state's economy continued to garner national accolades. Area Development magazine noted in September that Indiana is the best state for business in the Midwest and fifth best in the country and Chief Executive magazine rated Indiana sixth in its annual "Best & Worst States" survey. Site Selection magazine ranked the state sixth in the nation for its business climate and Indiana is one of only nine states to have triple-A credit ratings from all three reporting agencies: Standard & Poor's, Fitch and Moody's.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Advertising Agency Growing in Downtown Indianapolis

2012-01-09T10:31:00.001+01:00

INDIANAPOLIS - TrendyMinds Incorporated, an advertising and public relations agency, announced plans today to expand its operations here, creating up to 20 high-wage jobs by 2014.

The company, which specializes in website design and development, public relations, branding and video production, will invest $964,000 to purchase and renovate an 8,300 square-foot facility at 531 E. Market St. The facility is expected to be operational early next year.

"Building a healthy and sustainable business environment that encourages small businesses like TrendyMinds to grow is our priority," said Dan Hasler, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. "We're excited the company has chosen Indiana as a fixture in its long-term business plans and look forward to watching them continue to expand in the future."

TrendyMinds, which currently has 16 full-time employees in Indianapolis, has already begun hiring new account executives, graphic designers and website coders.

"We feel very fortunate to be able to grow our company in Indiana," said Trevor Yager, president and chief executive officer of TrendyMinds. "This expansion will help us to meet our growing needs and continue to recruit top talent and forge stronger relationships with our clients."

Yager founded TrendyMinds in 1995 as a screen print and embroidery shop. Steadily, the firm added services, including web design, branding and public relations, to become a full-service strategic communications firm. Today, TrendyMinds has a client portfolio that includes some of the largest companies in Indiana including the largest hospital network, the largest credit union, international pharmaceutical and health insurance companies, government agencies and a multi-national telecom software provider.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered TrendyMinds Incorporated up to $240,000 in conditional tax credits based on the company's job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. The city of Indianapolis has approved additional property tax abatement at the request of Develop Indy.

"The expansion of existing businesses here in Indianapolis is vital to the economic success of our city," said Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard. "We are pleased to have been a part of this project and congratulate TrendyMinds on this new chapter of their growing company."

This announcement is the latest in a succession of jobs announcements in Central Indiana. Just last week, Fishers-based Stratosphere Quality, a quality inspection service provider, and Indianapolis-based Archway Technology Partners, a financial service provider, announced plans to invest a combined $4.3 million and create up to 365 new jobs by 2015.

About TrendyMinds
TrendyMinds is a highly creative, full-service advertising and public relations agency. Our three service lines - creative, strategic and interactive - allow us to provide comprehensive, smart solutions for our clients. Founded in 1995, TrendyMinds prides itself on exceeding expectations, creating lasting and meaningful relationships with clients and hiring only the best and brightest in the industry. We don't just create ad campaigns, press releases or websites - we create identity. For more information, please visit www.TrendyMinds.com or call 317.926.1727. Follow TrendyMinds on Twitter @TrendyMinds or join our Facebook Fan Page at www.facebook.com/trendyminds.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Recreational Vehicle Manufacturer Adding Jobs in LaGrange County

2012-01-09T10:30:00.001+01:00

TOPEKA, Ind. - DS Corp d/b/a Crossroads RV, a manufacturer of fifth-wheel and towable recreational vehicles, announced plans today to expand its operations here, creating up to 250 new jobs by 2014.

Topeka-headquartered Crossroads RV, a division of Thor Motor Coach, will invest $3.9 million to purchase land and construct a new 93,000 square-foot facility adjacent to the company's existing 45.3-acre campus in Topeka. The new facility will house the company's Cruiser product line and is expected to be operational in June.

"Indiana entered the recession making about half of all RVs, now we're making more than four out of five," said Governor Mitch Daniels. "That's what happens when businesses in a tough economy look hard to see which state has the best economic climate. Thanks to Crossroads RV for these jobs and their confidence in Indiana."

Crossroads RV currently employs more than 600 Hoosiers at its six plants in Topeka and Syracuse. The company plans to begin hiring additional administrative, manufacturing and maintenance associates early next year.

"The new plant will give us the needed flexibility to expand our Cruiser line of RVs," said Don Emahiser, president of Crossroads RV. "The workforce in Topeka is top-notch in our industry, and we are glad that we are able to expand at our home in this area."

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered DS Corp d/b/a Crossroads RV up to $2.25 million in conditional tax credits and up to $200,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. The town of Topeka will consider additional tax abatement at the request of the LaGrange County Economic Development Corporation.

"We are grateful for the investment by Crossroads RV into building a new facility in the town of Topeka," said Yvonne Eash, president of the Topeka Town Council. "Crossroads RV is a valued employer in our community and we are happy to support them in their growth."

Crossroads RV joins the growing list of RV manufacturers expanding their operations in the Hoosier State. Earlier this year, Lippert Components Manufacturing and Kinro Manufacturing announced plans to expand their RV production lines at their Goshen and Middlebury locations, creating up to 330 new jobs by 2012. Also, Cruiser RV announced it would grow its operations in LaGrange, adding up to 200 new jobs by 2014.

About Crossroads RV
Topeka-based Crossroads RV manufactures a wide variety of travel trailers, fifth wheels and park models at five plant locations. Its products are distributed through dealers throughout the United States, Canada, France, Japan and Australia. Crossroads RV is a division of Thor Industries, Inc. More information on the company can be obtained online at www.crossroadsrv.com.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Farbest Foods to Invest $69 million in New Knox County Plant

2012-01-09T10:29:00.001+01:00

VINCENNES, Ind. - Governor Mitch Daniels announced today that Farbest Foods, Inc., one of the nation's largest turkey companies, will locate a new plant here, creating up to 600 new jobs over the next few years.

The Huntingburg-based company will invest $69.2 million to build a 220,000 square-foot processing plant on 100 acres of land in the U.S. Highway 41 Industrial Park in Vincennes. The new facility is expected to open its doors in January 2014.

"Farbest's decision to locate another facility in Indiana reaffirms the confidence that flourishing companies have in our prosperous business climate," said Daniels. "Thanks to our expansive infrastructure combined with the ability to reach 80 percent of the nation's population within a day's drive, Indiana is continually winning opportunities to bring more jobs to hardworking Hoosiers."

Farbest currently employs approximately 850 Hoosiers at its two Indiana locations in Huntingburg and Dubois. The company has already begun hiring engineering, administrative and maintenance associates for the new Vincennes plant and plans to begin hiring manufacturing associates in 2013. Once operational, the plant will initially employ 360 associates and will later grow to up to 600 employees with the anticipated addition of a second shift.

"Our current facilities for turkey processing, feeding and growing are near full utilization after completing the second shift of operations started in 2007," said Ted Seger, president of Farbest. "We have been investigating alternatives for our planned growth for more than a year in an effort to meet growing global customer demand for our products. Indiana is the perfect home for growth due to its abundant supply of grain, proactive stance on development of agriculture and our ability to leverage the strengths of our current turkey grower base and employees."

A family-owned operation since 1982, Farbest supplies more than a million pounds of raw, fresh and frozen turkey products per day to food processors who prepare and package their own brand-name foods. The company currently oversees the production of more than 10 million turkeys per year through approximately 170 contract growers in Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky. With customers in more than 20 countries, Farbest exports 20 percent of its products internationally.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Farbest Foods, Inc. up to $2.8 million in conditional tax credits and up to $200,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. Knox County has approved additional tax abatement at the request of the Knox County Development Corporation.

"We are very pleased that Farbest has chosen Vincennes," said Vincennes Mayor Al Baldwin. "We are equally confident that Farbest will prosper with the continued efforts of the state of Indiana, Knox County and Vincennes to support our business communities in the best ways possible."

Farbest's decision to locate in Knox County comes on the heels of Stens, LLC's announcement last week to invest $2.28 million to expand its headquarters in nearby Dubois County. As part of the project, the global outdoor equipment parts supplier projects to create up to 98 new jobs by 2015.

About Farbest Foods
Farbest Foods, Inc., a family owned company since 1982, is one of the nation's largest turkey companies with operations in Huntingburg, Ind. and Dubois, Ind. Current operations include turkey growing, feed production and turkey processing. More than 10 million turkeys per year are grown through 170 contract turkey growers in Indiana, Kentucky and Illinois. The processing plant in Huntingburg, Ind. employs more than 800 associates who process the turkey into products that are supplied to food processors that prepare and package their own brand name foods in the U.S. Nearly 20 percent of the turkey production is marketed to International customers.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov

Expansion Plans, Job Growth Unveiled for Two Indiana-Headquartered Companies

2012-01-09T10:28:00.000+01:00

INDIANAPOLIS - Governor Mitch Daniels and executives from two home-grown Hoosier firms today announced new investments in Central Indiana expected to create a combined 365 new jobs over the next four years.

Quality inspection service provider, Stratosphere Quality, LLC, and financial software provider, Archway Technology Partners, Inc., will invest a combined $4.3 million to expand their individual headquarters in Central Indiana. Stratosphere plans to create up to 225 new jobs by 2015 and Archway plans to add up to 140 new jobs by 2015.

As part of the rapidly growing quality-assurance industry, Stratosphere provides sorting and inspection services to manufacturers of parts and components in the automotive, medical device, appliance, construction and recreational vehicle industries. The company, which has more than 800 associates in North America, plans to invest $2.6 million to expand and upgrade its Fishers headquarters and has already begun hiring additional accounting, human resource and finance positions. It also plans to hire new quality inspectors and project managers across the state to interact directly with customers on site.

"We are pleased to see that the careful planning and work being done by Governor Daniels' team is paying off with such a positive business environment," said Tom Gray, Stratosphere chief operating officer. "We continually invest in our employees, technology, equipment and facilities in order to maintain our competitive edge and are excited to have the opportunity to continue to grow and provide more jobs and training in our home state of Indiana."

Archway supports and integrates back office operations for firms in the investment management industry. Its systems support business functions required for the management of more than $120 billion in market assets. To accommodate its expanding global client base, the company will invest $1.7 million to nearly double its current 6,000 square-foot headquarters on the north side of Indianapolis. Archway has already begun the hiring process for the additional associates. The new high-wage positions will be across the company, including software engineering, business development and professional and client services.

"We have been fortunate to find a significant pool of talent from which to build our team, and we greatly value the Central Indiana business community," said Jason Brown, president and chief executive officer of Archway. "In addition, we aspire to build a great partnership with both the city of Indianapolis and state of Indiana. We are excited to make a long term commitment to growth in the state."

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Stratosphere Quality, LLC up to $1.5 million in conditional tax credits and up to $200,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. In addition, Archway Technology Partners, Inc. was offered up to $2.4 million in conditional tax credits and up to $100,000 in training grants based on its job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. The city of Indianapolis will support Archway with grant funds at the request of Develop Indy.

"Companies are eager to invest in Indianapolis, thanks to our stable tax climate and business-friendly, pro-growth economic environment," said Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard. "As we continue our aggressive pursuit of new jobs, we are pleased to welcome this investment and expansion of businesses in Central Indiana and eager to build upon our efforts to grow our local economy, bringing quality jobs to Hoosier workers."

Stratosphere and Archway join 33 other companies that committed to locating or growing their headquarters in the Hoosier State this year, creating more than 4,100 projected new headquarters and operations jobs. In 2011, the IEDC secured job commitments from a total of 219 companies from across the country and around the world, an increase from 200 companies in 2010 and more than any other year on record. These 219 companies project to create more than 19,000 new jobs and invest more than $2.7 billion in their Indiana operations.

About Stratosphere Quality
Stratosphere Quality is a leading provider of quality assurance and outsourcing solutions, including sorting and inspection services, to manufacturers of parts and components in the automotive, medical device, electronics, home appliance and recreational vehicle industries. As a partner in quality, Stratosphere Quality helps suppliers and OEMs identify the root cause of quality problems, minimize defects, improve quality, increase efficiency and reduce costs associated with quality issues. Headquartered just northeast of Indianapolis, Indiana, Stratosphere Quality services manufacturers across the US and Ontario.

About Archway Technology
Archway Technology Partners is a global software company supporting the financial operations of single family offices, multi-family offices, hedge funds, fund administrators, fund of funds and investment advisors. Archway's flagship platform, ATWeb, is a web deployed enterprise software solution for the investment industry. An investment accounting software platform, ATWeb successfully integrates a full G/L with investor relations, portfolio accounting, fund accounting and partnership accounting. ATWeb also manages accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash management and budgeting & forecasting - a true standard in one solution.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Outdoor Furniture Manufacturer to Grow in Kosciusko County

2012-01-09T10:27:00.000+01:00

SYRACUSE, Ind. - Poly-Wood, Inc., a manufacturer of outdoor furniture, announced plans today to expand its operations here, creating up to 50 new jobs by 2015.

The company will invest $2.78 million to expand production operations and purchase a 25,000 square-foot facility and add a 35,000 square-foot addition on the company's current Kosciusko County campus. The new production operations, which include plastic lumber extrusions and furniture manufacturing, are slated to be operational later next year.

"We're pleased to have a high-growth company like Poly-Wood continue to invest and grow in Indiana," said Dan Hasler, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. "Our state is leading the nation with our top-rated business climate and low-tax policies to help secure the growth of these up-and-coming businesses."

Poly-Wood, which currently has 87 full-time employees in Indiana, plans to begin hiring additional production associates in March.

"We are very grateful to the state of Indiana, the Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation and town of Syracuse, all of whom were influential in helping to secure this expansion," said Doug Rassi, president and co-founder of Poly-Wood. "The support of these important players and the continued growth of our organization have helped us increase our production capabilities while cementing our company as a Hoosier business."

In 1990, Poly-Wood founders Doug Rassi and Mark Phillabaum established the company to refurbish recycled milk jugs into plastic lumber to be used in outdoor furniture. Recently, the company acquired Syracuse-based Image Group, a provider of graphic creation and production services, to enhance the company's marketing and media services.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Poly-Wood, Inc. up to $100,000 in conditional tax credits based on the company's job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. Up to $200,000 from the state's Industrial Development Grant Fund will be made available to Kosciusko County for rail improvements at the site. The town of Syracuse will consider additional financial support for the project at the request of the Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation.

"It's very important to take care of existing businesses and maintain an environment conducive to expansion," said Henry DeJulia, Syracuse town manager. "We're very excited to have this innovative, green company bring 21st century jobs to Syracuse."

Poly-Wood's announcement comes just four days after Stens, a global supplier of replacement parts for the outdoor power equipment industry, announced plans to expand its headquarters in Jasper. As part of the project, the company will invest $2.28 million and create up to 98 new jobs by 2015.

About Poly-Wood
For over 20 years, Poly-Wood, Inc. has been the leader in developing casual outdoor furniture with plastic lumber. Today Poly-Wood occupies over 200,000 square-feet of manufacturing space. Our plastic lumber extrusion process is modern and efficient. We utilize 3D design, CNC fabrication and lean manufacturing techniques. Poly-Wood now offers thousands of SKUs and ships a majority of its furniture next day.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Entrepreneur Says Indiana Has 'Phenomenal' Talent

2011-12-19T09:55:00.002+01:00

(Dec. 16, 2011) The co-founder of an organization to support Indiana startups believes there is phenomenal talent in the state's entrepreneur community. Verge's Matt Hunckler says his group has increased from 400 members to more than 1,400 within one year. He says a Verge event last January helped launch financial information startup MyJibe, which has since been purchased by a Utah-based company. In a recent interview on Inside INdiana Business Television, Hunckler says there are several signs that the state's startup sector is alive and well.

Hunckler says Indiana is benefiting from a "new class of millennials" that is becoming entrepreneurs. He says the state has great talent and a strong higher education system that combine to create a strong startup landscape.

ChaCha founder Scott Jones has said Indiana needs more direct flights to and from traditional business hotbeds such as Silicon Valley, and Hunkler says he agrees.

Hunckler and other members of Indiana's startup community are currently on a western tour to promote Hoosier entrepreneurship.

Global Outdoor Equipment Parts Supplier to Expand Headquarters in Dubois County

2011-12-19T09:53:00.000+01:00

JASPER, Ind. (Dec. 16, 2011) - Stens, LLC, a global supplier of replacement parts for the outdoor power equipment industry, announced today that it will expand its headquarters here, creating up to 98 new jobs by 2015.

Stens, a division of Ariens Company, will invest $2.28 million to purchase, renovate and equip a 208,400 square-foot building at 1220 Power Dr. on the city's south side. Renovations on the facility, which will house the company's headquarters and distribution center, will begin next month. Operations will transfer to the new site in August when facility upgrades are expected to be complete.

"Stens is a true Hoosier success story and their continued expansion and global presence further establish Indiana as an international leader for business," said Governor Mitch Daniels. "Our low-tax policies and skilled workforce continue to attract jobs to all corners of our state and give global leaders like Stens the opportunity to succeed."

Stens launched in 1970 out of a one-room garage in Jasper as a seller and repairer of outdoor power equipment. The company has since expanded to more than 300 associates globally with distribution centers in six states and five countries. Stens, which currently has 180 employees in Indiana, will begin hiring new headquarter and distribution associates in Jasper within the next three months.

"Stens continues to expand our global market share with highly skilled associates and a leveraged infrastructure to grow in a very competitive global marketplace," said Peter Ariens, global aftermarket president of Stens. "We believe the state of Indiana is investing wisely in a strong business environment. Stens has thrived in Indiana over the past 40 years and we want to continue to be a part of that local, regional and state momentum."

Stens is an international supplier of replacement parts for the outdoor power equipment, landscape, rental, golf and construction industries. With 50,000 customers worldwide, the company exports goods to more than 50 countries, including Australia, Brazil, New Zealand and Ireland.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Stens, LLC up to $750,000 in conditional tax credits based on the company's job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. The city of Jasper has approved additional tax abatement at the request of the Dubois County Area Development Corporation.

"I am delighted that Stens is staying in Jasper and that they are growing," said Jasper Mayor Bill Schmitt. "I think that the excellent workforce in southwest Indiana helped play a large part in the company's decision to expand here. I would encourage other businesses looking to expand or to relocate to consider Jasper and Dubois County."

Stens' announcement to expand its Dubois County headquarters comes just over a month after AFCO Racing Products, a division of Speedway Motors, announced plans to expand in nearby Warrick County. The company will invest $3.7 million to purchase and equip a new retail facility in Boonville, adding up to 61 new jobs by 2014.

About Stens
Stens is an international supplier of original and replacement parts for most major brands of outdoor power equipment. Stens is a respected member of the Outdoor Power Equipment Aftermarket Association, the American Rental Association, Golf Course Superintendents Association, STAFTDA, and other local and regional associations. Through its international businesses, Bynorm, Sovde, and Countax, Stens continues to build a global replacement parts brand. Stens, LLC is a subsidiary of Ariens Company, a manufacturer of premier lawn and garden equipment. For more about Stens and its products, visit www.stens.com.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Indiana Benefits From 'Very Favorable' Tax Structure

2011-12-16T10:40:00.002+01:00

(Dec. 15, 2011) How Indiana stacks up in a changing taxation landscape is one of the topics being explored this afternoon at the Bingham McHale Legislative Conference in Indianapolis. Indiana Fiscal Policy Institute President John Ketzenberger believes the state's tax structure is "in pretty good shape" compared to the rest of the country. He says income taxes are relatively low and business taxes are coming down. Ketzenberger adds even though the sales tax is higher than most areas of the country, it is offset by a "very favorable property tax situation."

Ketzenberger also says there is room for improvement and points to the areas of tax equity and neutrality.

He believes a system needs to be in place that doesn't prompt "outrageous decisions" based on taxes. Ketzenberger says an example is the recent scramble by Illinois to keep CME Group Inc. in Chciago after lawamkers increased income taxes.

Ketzenberger will explore taxation issues further this afternoon during a panel discussion including State Senator Luke Kenley (R-) and Indiana Retail Council President Grant Monahan.

High-tech Defense Firm to Expand Headquarters in Clark County

2011-12-06T10:17:00.001+01:00

CLARKSVILLE, Ind. (Dec. 5, 2011) - Rivera Consulting Group, Inc., a technical services firm specializing in U.S. Department of Defense software applications, announced today that it will expand its operations and construct a new headquarters here, creating up to 85 new high-wage jobs by 2015.

Founded in 2002, Rivera Group is a veteran-owned, information technology company that provides software development services, defense-related applications and enterprise system consulting to private sector companies and government agencies. It plans to invest $5.6 million to construct and furnish a 25,000 square-foot facility to house new and existing operations in Clarksville. The new facility will enhance the company's capabilities, enabling them to increase their support of both private and federal sector contracts.

"Indiana has a well-deserved reputation as a state where high-tech companies can succeed," said Governor Mitch Daniels. "We're excited about the technology that Rivera Group is developing and are proud that Hoosiers will contribute to the important work of protecting the brave men and women of our armed forces."

Rivera Group, which was recognized as a 2011 "Company to Watch" recipient in July, plans ongoing hiring of information technology professionals. The highly-skilled positions will earn an average salary of $85,000. Interested candidates should apply at www.riverainc.com.

"We are very excited about building our corporate headquarters in southern Indiana. The talent pool from the state of Indiana is second to none and the future at Rivera Group couldn't be any brighter," said Dr. Joey Rivera, president of Rivera Group. "We are also pleased with the support we have received from One Southern Indiana, the town of Clarksville and the state of Indiana."

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Rivera Consulting Group, Inc. up to $1.1 million in conditional tax credits based on the company's job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives.The town of Clarksville will consider additional financial support for the project at the request of One Southern Indiana.

"Rivera Group's expansion is a welcome addition to Clarksville's economic base," said Greg Isgrigg, town council president.

According to a report recently released by the Indiana Business Research Center at Indiana University's Kelley School of Business, more than 1,100 Hoosier companies were successful in attracting $4.4 billion in contracts from the U.S. Department of Defense and Homeland Security in 2010, supporting an estimated 38,600 Indiana jobs. Just last August, Next Wave Systems, a defense technology and engineering firm, announced plans to expand its operations in Bloomington, creating up to 60 new jobs by 2014. The company supports the U.S. Department of Defense, including operations at the Naval Surface Warfare Center at Crane.

About Rivera Group

Rivera Consulting Group, Inc. is a Veteran-Owned Small Business that specializes in Department of Defense software solutions. Rivera Group has three specialized software products that accompany their consulting services, and have contracts in multiple government agencies ranging from the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol to the Department of the Army. The company is owned by Dr. Joey Rivera, who is a Veteran of the U.S. Army. To learn more, please visit www.riverainc.com.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Furniture Manufacturer to Expand Operations in Dubois County

2011-12-01T09:25:00.000+01:00

JASPER, Ind. (Nov. 28, 2011) - Indiana Furniture Industries, Inc., a manufacturer and distributor of office furniture, announced plans today to expand its operations here, crehttp://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=4034731054095788053ating up to 10 new high-wage jobs by 2015. The company will add a 30,000 square-foot addition to one of its existing manufacturing facilities as part of the project. The new addition is slated to be operational by the end of 2012.

"With more than a hundred years of experience in the Hoosier State, Indiana Furniture is continually setting the standard for sustained growth in an ever-changing market," said Dan Hasler, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. "Our nationally-ranked business climate and expansive infrastructure are helping local businesses establish a successful foundation to bring more jobs to Indiana."

Indiana Furniture, which currently has 287 full-time employees in Indiana, plans to begin hiring additional technical machine operators and engineers to coincide with facility construction. Interested candidates should apply at www.indianafurniture.com.

"With our long heritage in the Jasper community, coupled with our Midwest values, it's easy to call Dubois County our home," said Bret Ackerman, president and chief executive officer of Indiana Furniture. "To gain a competitive advantage in this industry, we've recognized that we need to embrace innovation in technology and processes. Therefore we plan on considerable capital expenditures over the next several years."

Founded in 1905, the company was established as Jasper Novelty Works in part as a response to the efforts of the Jasper Business Men's Association's initiative to provide local employment opportunities. Indiana Furniture's ultraviolet finishing technology was awarded the GREENGUARD certification for indoor air quality in 2008 by the Greenguard Environmental Institute for the company's non-toxic curing process.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Indiana Furniture Industries, Inc. up to $100,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. The city of Jasper approved additional property tax abatement.

"It's particularly gratifying that our new property tax abatement program's first recipient is an existing company," said Jim Dinkle, president of the Dubois County Area Development Corporation. "Indiana Furniture is a century-old company with deep roots in Dubois County."

Indiana Furniture's announcement comes one month after AFCO Racing Products, a manufacturer of parts for the racing industry, announced plans to grow its operations in nearby Warrick County. The company will invest $3.7 million to purchase and equip a new retail facility in Boonville, creating up to 61 new jobs by 2014.

About Indiana Furniture
Indiana Furniture, headquartered in Jasper, Ind. for over a century is committed to providing its customers with office furnishings of the highest standards in quality and craftsmanship. Through advance information systems and state of the art technology we deliver a wide range of environmentally conscious products, styles, and sizes at competitive prices.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Thirteen Indiana Sites Score State Designation for Speedier Development

2011-11-24T11:27:00.002+01:00

INDIANAPOLIS (Nov. 21, 2011) - Thirteen sites across Indiana earned the title of 'shovel ready' today, paving the way for businesses to quickly locate new operations on property ready for development.

The thirteen new sites located in Dubois, Fulton, Gibson, Greene, Johnson, Monroe, Shelby, Steuben, Vanderburgh, Wabash, Wayne, White and Whitley counties join the list of 80 other 'shovel ready' sites identified by the state since 2006 that have undergone extensive title work, proof of ownership, legal and environmental review and qualify for expedited permitting with state regulatory agencies.

"More and more companies are increasingly looking for sites where they can have a shovel in the ground as quickly as possible," said Dan Hasler, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. "We know that time is valuable and this program is a vital tool in giving Indiana the advantage of attracting competitive investment."

This summer, North American Lighting announced it would build a new injection molds facility in Warrick County's 'shovel ready' North Warrick Industrial Park, creating more than 40 new jobs, and Naturally Recycled Proteins announced it would build two new facilities at the Montpelier Industrial Park 'shovel ready' site in Blackford County, creating up to 68 new jobs. Also, earlier this year, Nanshan America announced it would establish an aluminum extrusions manufacturing facility in Park 350, a 'shovel ready' site in Lafayette, creating up to 150 new jobs.

Passed in the 2005 legislative session as part of Governor Daniels' jobs agenda, 'shovel ready' sites are certified by the state's Fast Access Site Team that consists of representatives from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, governor's office, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Indiana Department of Environmental Management, Indiana Department of Transportation, Indiana State Department of Health, Indiana State Department of Agriculture and the Indiana State Department of Homeland Security.

Certified sites have been eligible for matching grants to assist with eligible costs associated with applying for the shovel ready program. These sites are listed on the Indiana Economic Development Corporation's Site and Building Database at at http://statein.zoomprospector.com/. This online resource allows site selection consultants and businesses to research available commercial and industrial properties that are available for quick development and investment.

The most recent shovel ready sites receiving certification are:

LOCATION. Dubois County(Huntingburg)
SITE NAME. Huntingburg Airport Technology Park (196 acres)
APPLICANT. Dubois County Area Development Corporation and Dubois County Airport Authority
CONTACT. Travis McQueen 812.683.5454

LOCATION. Fulton County(Rochester)
SITE NAME. Blacketor Industrial Expansion Park (74 acres)
APPLICANT. Fulton Economic Development Corporation
CONTACT. Wm. Terry Lee 574.223.3326

LOCATION. Gibson County(Princeton)
SITE NAME. Southern Indiana Tire 44 Site (44 acres)
APPLICANT. Gibson County Economic Development Corporation
CONTACT. B. Todd Mosby 812.386.1320

LOCATION. Greene County(Bloomfield)
SITE NAME. Scotland Meadows Business & Technology Park(50 acres)
APPLICANT. Greene County Commissioners
CONTACT. Steve Lindsey 812.384.8658

LOCATION. Johnson County(Franklin)
SITE NAME. Franklin Business Park(206 acres)
APPLICANT. Johnson County Development Corporation
CONTACT. Cheryl Morphew 317.736.4300

LOCATION. Monroe County (Bloomington)
SITE NAME. 300 North Curry Park(69 acres)
APPLICANT. Bloomington Economic Development Corporation
CONTACT. Ron Walker 812.335.7346

LOCATION. Shelby County(Shelbyville)
SITE NAME. Shelby Materials Edinburgh Farm Site (324 acres)
APPLICANT. Shelby County Development Corporation
CONTACT. Dan Theobald 317.398.8903

LOCATION. Steuben County(Hudson)
SITE NAME. Hudson West Industrial Park (48 acres)
APPLICANT. Town of Hudson
CONTACT. Ward Odom 260.587.3500

LOCATION. Vanderburgh County (Evansville)
SITE NAME. 15400 Highway 41 Site(58 acres)
APPLICANT. The Growth Alliance For Greater Evansville
CONTACT. Donna Crooks 812.401.4243

LOCATION. Wabash County(Wabash)
SITE NAME. North Manchester Industrial Park (106 acres)
APPLICANT. Town of North Manchester
CONTACT. Bill Konya 260.563.5258

LOCATION. Wayne County(Richmond)
SITE NAME. Phase II Midwest Industrial Park (167 acres)
APPLICANT. Economic Development Corporation of Wayne County
CONTACT. Valerie Shaffer 765.983.4769

LOCATION. White County(Monticello)
SITE NAME. Monticello Business Park(90 acres)
APPLICANT. White County Local Economic Development Organization
CONTACT. Connie Neininger 574.583.6557

LOCATION. Whitley County(South Whitley)
SITE NAME. South Whitley Industrial Park (42 acres)
APPLICANT. Whitley County Economic Development Corporation
CONTACT. Alan Tio 260.244.5506

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Toronto-based Packaging Company to Locate in Southern Indiana

2011-11-24T10:27:00.001+01:00

LAWRENCEBURG, Ind. (Nov. 18, 2011) - IntraPac Group, a specialty packaging manufacturer for the personal care and pharmaceutical markets, announced today that it will locate a new facility here, creating up to 63 new jobs by 2012.

The company will relocate its operations from New Jersey to Lawrenceburg and build an 80,000 square-foot facility on approximately seven acres of land. Construction on the new manufacturing plant began in September and is expected to be operational in February.

"IntraPac's decision is further proof that Indiana has the best business climate in the country," said Governor Mitch Daniels. "This decision will bring important new jobs to Dearborn County and continues a national trend of companies relocating to Indiana and reaping the benefits of our low-tax economy and highly-skilled workforce."

Headquartered in Toronto, IntraPac has more than 250 employees in North America. It plans to begin hiring new manufacturing, clerical and sales associates in Lawrenceburg this December.

"The IntraPac Group initiated a search for a new location for our laminate tubes business with the goal of providing a new first class facility to satisfy the growing needs of our pharmaceutical and personal care customers," said Gary Ullman, chief executive officer of IntraPac. "We considered a number of sites across four states before deciding upon Lawrenceburg. The outstanding assistance and support we have received throughout this process from the state of Indiana, Dearborn County and the city has contributed greatly to making this exciting new plant for IntraPac a reality."

Founded in 2003, IntraPac designs and produces a vast array of packaging products including plastic bottles, closures, laminate and tin tubes, deodorant sticks, droppers and specialty coating services. Its seven production facilities span North and Central America, including locations in Virginia, New York and Costa Rica.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered IntraPac up to $415,000 in conditional tax credits and up to $150,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. The city of Lawrenceburg awarded a grant to the company to aid in its relocation efforts with the help of the Dearborn County Economic Development Initiative.

"We are excited at the opportunity to bring 63 jobs to the city of Lawrenceburg and Dearborn County," said Michael Rozow, Jr., executive director of the Dearborn County Economic Development Initiative. "The company and developer have worked very hard to build a facility the community can be proud of."

IntraPac's announcement comes just a few days after Daniels joined executives from Exegistics, a veteran-owned, logistics service provider, to announce the company's decision to open its first Indiana facility in nearby Jennings County. The Illinois-based company will invest approximately $9 million to build and equip a rail-sided, distribution facility on a ten-acre campus in North Vernon. The project is expected to create up to 315 new jobs by 2014.

About IntraPac
The IntraPac Group is a specialty packaging company that provides personal care and pharmaceutical packaging solutions. With seven production facilities that span North and Central America, our services include extrusion, injection and injection stretch blow molding, through injection molding, laminate & tin tube production and specialty coating equipment, customized decorating and assembly. We work with a wide array of materials including PET, HDPE, LDPE, polypropylene, aluminum barrier and plastic laminates, metals and specialty fluoropolymer coatings. For more information, visit www.intrapacgroup.com.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Illinois-Based Logistics Company to Locate in Jennings County, Add 315 New Jobs

2011-11-16T12:53:00.001+01:00

NORTH VERNON, Ind. (Nov. 14, 2011) - Governor Mitch Daniels joined executives from Exegistics, a veteran-owned, logistics service provider, today to announce the company's plans to open its first Indiana facility here, creating up to 315 new jobs by the end of 2014.

Headquartered in Wheeling, Ill., Exegistics will invest approximately $9 million to build and equip a rail-sided, distribution facility on a ten-acre campus in Jennings County. The existing structure on the property, which has been vacant for 15 years, will be demolished and construction of the company's new facility is expected to begin in January. Exegistics will establish a temporary regional office at the North Vernon Education Training Center this month until facility construction is complete.

"The Exegistics decision, right on top of the Windstream opening, marks North Vernon as a great place for business," Daniels said. "Indiana is proud to welcome another innovative, growing business to our best-in-America logistics industry."

Established in 2008 by former Marine Corps Officer Stephen Olds, Exegistics provides warehousing, light assembly, packaging and value-added resourcing to government agencies and medium-sized to Fortune 50 companies. Olds has spent his career working with well-known companies like General Electric, Honda, Newell Rubbermaid and United Technologies Corp. as well as major government branches including the Defense Logistics Agency. Today, the company handles more than $100 million of production distribution materials annually.

"We are excited about locating our new distribution and fulfillment operation in North Vernon. While we evaluated other locations, Indiana and the city of North Vernon offered the best pro-growth partnership and access to a highly qualified and values-based labor market," said Olds. "In our third party logistics, service-based industry, we pride ourselves on developing and delivering innovation to our customers. We look forward to hiring in this area with employees that can help us continue to deliver exceptional value to our customers and prospects. Our new state of the art, rail-sided facility is the first phase of planned expansion in the region."

As part of Exegistics' project in Jennings County, a spur off the short line rail in North Vernon will be rehabilitated creating a lower cost and environmentally friendly logistics system that will support the company's regional customers and the National Guard at the Muscatatuck Urban Training Center. Exegistics, which has operations nationwide, plans to begin hiring distribution, assembly and packaging operators to coincide with facility construction completion.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Exegistics up to $1,800,000 in conditional tax credits and up to $100,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. In addition, the IEDC will provide Jennings County with up to $125,000 in infrastructure assistance from the state's Industrial Development Grant Fund. The city of North Vernon will provide additional incentives at the request of the Jennings County Economic Development Commission.

"I am extremely pleased to welcome Exegistics to North Vernon," said Mayor Harold Campbell. "I believe that this project will directly drive job creation to not only Jennings County but to the entire southeastern region of Indiana."

Earlier this month, WindStream Technologies, one of Exegistics' current customers, celebrated the opening of its new production facility in North Vernon. The manufacturer of wind energy technology recently teamed up with the Buffalo Bills to install micro-wind turbines at Ralph Wilson Stadium, marking the first deployment of micro-wind technology in an NFL stadium. In 2009, WindStream announced that it will create more than 260 new jobs by 2014 in southeast Indiana.

About Exegistics
Exegistics is a veteran-owned 3PL (third party logistics) company that provides distribution, packaging, assembly, lead logistics management, and value-add resourcing solution (staffing) services. As the premier provider of outsourced supply chain and operations focused solutions, we work with our clients to design and deliver results that drive innovation to improve cost and service performance. Our client relationships, associates, and performance results are grounded in our core values of open communication, unwavering accountability, committed ingenuity, and strong leadership. For more information, visit www.exegistics.com or email innovations@exegistics.com.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC.

The IEDC oversees programs enacted by the General Assembly including tax credits, workforce training grants and public infrastructure assistance. All tax credits are performance-based. Therefore, companies must first invest in Indiana through job creation or capital investment before incentives are paid. A company who does not meet its full projections only receives a percentage of the incentives proportional to its actual investment. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Logistics Company Expands Headquarters in Indianapolis

2011-11-14T09:40:00.000+01:00

INDIANAPOLIS (Nov. 9, 2011) - Spot Freight, Inc., a third party logistics provider, announced plans today to expand its headquarters here, creating up to 73 new jobs by 2015.

Spot Freight, which provides truckload, less than truckload, intermodal and freight management services, will invest more than $500,000 to lease and equip space in downtown Indianapolis. The company will also upgrade its technology infrastructure to streamline processes, ensure accuracy and strengthen customer satisfaction.

"Spot Freight has been in business for a short time, but their growth has already been remarkable," said Governor Mitch Daniels. "Indiana is the best state for new business and Spot Freight is a prime example that our pro-business policies and talented workforce can lead to rapid success."

Spot Freight currently employs 13 full-time Hoosiers in Indiana. It plans to begin hiring additional dispatchers and customer service and freight sales representatives this year. Interested candidates should apply at www.spotmyfreight.com.

"Spot Freight attributes much of its early stage success to the high quality of its dedicated employees, as well as its reliable carriers and a loyal customer base," said Andrew Elsener, co-owner of Spot Freight. "We have been fortunate enough to find those valuable team members right here in Central Indiana. With the support of the state of Indiana and city of Indianapolis, we are able to make this commitment to grow and prosper in Indiana for many years to come."

Established in 2009 by Elsener and co-owner Andy Schenk, Spot Freight aims to provide better values to customers by taking a more modern and organized approach to their logistics needs. Since 2009, the company has more than doubled its revenue growth each year and projects revenues of more than $30 million in 2012.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Spot Freight, Inc., up to $650,000 in performance-based tax credits and up to $20,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. The city of Indianapolis will consider additional property tax abatement at the request of Develop Indy.

"Indianapolis is a city where young companies thrive. As a logistics provider, Spot Freight has benefitted from our central location, superior infrastructure, low costs and quality labor, all of which have allowed them to grow quickly. We are happy they have chosen to continue their expansion here," said Mayor Greg Ballard.

According to the 2011 Conexus: Indiana Manufacturing and Logistics Report Card, Indiana's logistics industry earned an overall 'A' grade and ranked ninth in the country for logistics employment. As the Crossroads of America, Indiana has more than 11,000 total highway miles and is intersected by eight interstate highways, more than any other state in the nation.

About Spot Freight
Founded in 2009, Spot Freight specializes in bringing thousands of shippers and carriers together to meet the interests of the cargo and provide the specialized equipment needed to meet the demands of evolving supply chains. By utilizing state of the art technology, Spot Freight provides solutions to save its customers time and money. For more information, visit www.spotmyfreight.com.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Global Automotive Supplier Bringing More Jobs to Cass County

2011-11-14T09:37:00.001+01:00

LOGANSPORT, Ind. (Nov. 7, 2011) - Federal-Mogul Corporation (NASDAQ: FDML), a supplier of powertrain and safety technology, announced plans today to expand its operations here, creating approximately 100 new jobs by 2012.

The company, which manufactures fuel systems for the automotive, commercial, aerospace and agricultural industries, will invest $2.7 million to purchase new machinery and equipment for its 170,000 square-foot manufacturing plant and adjacent 15,000 square-foot technical center. Installation of the machinery is expected to begin this month.

"When a corporation with an extensive global background like Federal-Mogul continues to invest in Indiana, it shows the confidence companies have in our thriving business climate," said Governor Mitch Daniels. "Hoosiers across Indiana are reaping the benefits of a sound economic policy that promotes healthy growth and provides more jobs."

Headquartered in Southfield, Mich., Federal-Mogul employs 300 Hoosiers in Indiana. The company plans to begin hiring additional assembly and manufacturing associates in early 2012.

"This is great news for Federal-Mogul employees and for the Logansport community," said Brad Angle, plant manager at Federal-Mogul Logansport. "We are pleased to have this supportive decision and welcome the opportunity to invest in new technologies to enhance the plant's product and customer portfolio. We will add new fuel pump production lines in support of Federal-Mogul's leading position as a respected, high quality supplier of automotive fuel pumps to North American customers."

In 1899, Federal-Mogul was founded by Howard Muzzy and Edward Lyon as the Muzzy-Lyon Company and sold mill supplies and rubber goods. Today, with 45,000 employees operating in 35 countries, the company supplies $6.2 billion of products annually.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Federal-Mogul Corporation up to $450,000 in performance-based tax credits and up to $76,400 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. The city of Logansport approved additional property tax abatement.

"Federal-Mogul has been a long-term fixture in our community and I am excited that they will be expanding their workforce here in Cass County," said Nolan "Skip" Kuker, president of the Logansport-Cass County Economic Development Foundation. "They have been wonderful to work with on this project and we would look forward to working with them again on any possible further growth. These partnerships help not only help Federal-Mogul but also Logansport and the state of Indiana."

Federal-Mogul's announcement is the latest in a succession of jobs announcements in Indiana's automotive industry. Just last week, AFCO Racing Products, a division of Speedway Motors, announced plans to grow its operations in Boonville, creating up to 61 new jobs by 2014. Also, Aisin Drivetrain recently announced that it will add a new manufacturing line for six-speed automatic transmissions for the commercial truck market, creating approximately 40 new jobs by 2014 in Crothersville.

About Federal-Mogul
Federal-Mogul Corporation is a leading global supplier of powertrain and safety solutions to the world's foremost original equipment manufacturers of automotive, commercial, aerospace, marine, rail and off-road vehicles; industrial, agricultural and power generation equipment; as well as the worldwide aftermarket. Federal-Mogul's leading technology and innovation, lean manufacturing expertise, and global distribution network deliver world-class products, brands and services at a competitive cost. The company's sustainable global profitable growth strategy creates value for its employees, customers and shareholders. Federal-Mogul was founded in Detroit in 1899. The company is headquartered in Southfield, Michigan, and employs approximately 45,000 people in 35 countries.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

International Wire Expands with Two Additional Production Facilities

2011-11-13T14:47:00.001+01:00

International Wire Group Holdings, Inc. today announced that it has expanded its operations in the southwestern U.S. and in Eastern Europe.

The Company has completed its purchase of the machinery and equipment of Ffhoenix Cuivre, LLC located in Santa Teresa, New Mexico and assumed the related building lease. The purchase will expand the Company's manufacturing capacity in the southwestern U.S. In addition, the Company has begun manufacturing product at its new plant in Dabrowa Gornicza, Poland. This new plant will enable the Company to better serve its growing customer base located in Eastern Europe. Initial investment for these two expansions total approximately $14.5 million.

Electric Vehicle Racing Could Boost Emerging Sector

2011-11-08T09:33:00.000+01:00

Electric vehicle (EV) proponents are envisioning a completely new racing experience—where batteries are recharged at pit stops instead of refueling, races are sponsored by electric companies instead of oil conglomerates and fans get real-time car stats or video via their iPad. Hoosier leaders are laying the groundwork for such an electric vehicle racing series in Indianapolis. While an EV league would spark excitement for racing enthusiasts, supporters believe it would also benefit a broad spectrum of Hoosier companies, including advanced vehicle manufacturers and battery developers.

"EV racing is going to happen somewhere in the world—it's being discussed in Europe, Asia and other parts of the U.S. If it's going to happen, better to have it happen here first than for us be a follower," says Paul Mitchell, president and chief executive officer of Energy Systems Network (ESN), the state's clean energy initiative. "In Indiana, we have a long history with EVs, and we have an equally long and rich history with motorsports, so it just seems like a natural fit to have this project happen in Indy."

To help build momentum for the project, ESN spearheaded an EV racing summit in early October at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS). Called "Motorsports 2.0," the event brought together leaders from racing teams, engineering and design firms and other EV pioneers to develop a roadmap for launching an EV racing series. Listen

"Indianapolis is the racing capital of the world; we have some really outstanding companies in the motorsports industry, and we have the IMS," says Mitchell. "In parallel, you have a similar mix of companies and institutions working in the EV space; Bright Automotive, EnerDel, Altairnano, Cummins, Allison Transmission, Delphi, Remy—it's a natural synergy to have this happen in Indiana."

Supporters of EV racing believe such a league would take motorsports "back to its roots" as a "proving ground" for the automotive industry, giving companies a place to showcase and test new technologies for the emerging EV sector.

"EVs traveling at 200 mph plus on a race track—even beating out internal combustion engine vehicles for world records—is a way of proving out the technology, so it can be moved more quickly into the commercial realm," says Mitchell, who also spearheads ESN's Project Plug-IN, an Indiana-based deployment project for EVs and smart grid technologies. "When people think about EVs, they think about go-carts and having to compromise on speed, torque and horsepower. [EV racing] is an opportunity to show consumers that EVs are performance vehicles." Listen

Beyond showcasing EVs, Mitchell says a series would also fine tune the mechanisms that power the vehicles. Supporters envision sponsors of the recent summit—such as Duke Energy and electrical engineering powerhouse Siemens—as the type of companies that would be potential sponsors of racing events.

"You think about charging an EV in the pits, or swapping batteries in the pit—those types of energy exchanges in the race may become the future fueling stations for EVs in your communities," says Mitchell. "That provides a whole new area of technology development and marketing in EV motorsports that doesn't exist today in traditional motorsports."

Likening the evolvement of the race car to the transition from analog to digital, Mitchell believes the spectators' experience could be greatly enhanced in EV racing.

"These cars become extensions of high performance computing," says Mitchell. "Fans could see the car's performance or video in real time on their iPad. Maybe fans could be voting or interacting with the race directly to impact the amount of boost a car has through the battery system, or even change the color of the car through LED lighting."

Mitchell believes fans will also help build a base of consumers ready to make the leap to electric for their own car, accelerating the rate of EV adoption and boosting profits for Hoosier companies involved in the emerging sector.

ESN is now working with potential technology partners and sponsors to establish a time frame for getting the first EV on a race track, with the goal of launching an EV racing series in two to three years. Listen

"Through the collaborative work that was done at the summit," says Mitchell, "I think people believe there's a real opportunity in the next year or two to break some speed records with EVs and begin the drumbeat toward an EV series."

Turkish Manufacturer Chooses Muncie for U.S. Headquarters

2011-11-07T09:33:00.001+01:00

MUNCIE, Ind. (Nov. 4, 2011) - Kermit USA, LLC, a manufacturer and distributor of resin composite roofing systems, announced plans today to establish its U.S. headquarters here, creating up to 70 new jobs by 2016.

Based in Turkey, the company will invest $12.5 million to equip 44,000 square feet of space at the newly-created Turkish Business Center in Muncie for its U.S. headquarters and first facility in North America. The facility, which will also serve as a manufacturing and distribution center, will be focused on producing 100 percent recyclable composite slate tiles for the Midwestern home market.

"Indiana has established itself on the global stage as the location of choice for international companies like Kermit to invest and create jobs," said Governor Mitch Daniels. "As one of the most highly-rated business climates in the nation, Indiana is able to secure more jobs for Hoosiers through our innovative pro-growth policies and outstanding workforce."

Kermit, which employs 120 associates globally, plans to begin hiring administrative, production, insulation experts, warehouse and logistics positions next summer.

"After the recent trip to Turkey by city leaders, we were convinced that Muncie was our new home," said Erdal Cakici, president of Kermit. "Indiana's friendly business atmosphere and the accommodating nature of these officials helped make our decision."

Founded in 2004 in Istanbul by Kermit-USA's Investment Group, the company operates internationally in France, Libya, Moldova and Iran. The company has won numerous environmental accolades throughout Turkey and Europe for its production of recyclable manufactured goods.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Kermit USA, LLC up to $300,000 in performance-based tax credits and up to $50,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. The city of Muncie will consider tax-increment financing.

"This is the first of what we hope will be many businesses from Turkey to locate in Muncie-Delaware County," said Todd Donati, president of the Delaware County Commissioners. "The TBC played an integral role in the attraction of Kermit USA and the associated jobs and capital investment. We believe it will play a substantial role in attracting additional investment from Turkey."

Kermit's decision to locate its first North American facility in the Hoosier State comes shortly after Site Selection magazine named Indiana the top state in the Midwest and sixth best in the nation for business, up two spots from eighth in 2010.

About Kermit
Kermit-USA is privately owned by a consortium of Turkish investors, led by Erdal Çakici, President and General Manager. Kermit-USA is in the process of gaining U.S. and state-by-state building code compliance acceptance for its construction products so that it can begin manufacturing and distribution of its products for installation in the U.S. Kermit's principal investors include Mr. Erdal Çakici, Mr. Ali Osman Akat and Mr. Erkan Selah. For more information on products manufactured by Kermit, visit www.kermit.com.tr.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Motorsports Parts Manufacturer Adding Jobs in Warrick County

2011-11-07T09:29:00.001+01:00

BOONVILLE, Ind. (Nov. 3, 2011) - AFCO Racing Products, a division of Speedway Motors, announced plans today to grow its operations here, creating up to 61 new jobs by 2014.

The company, a manufacturer of parts for the racing industry, will invest $3.7 million to purchase and equip a new retail facility in Boonville. The retail facility will include memorabilia from the Museum of American Speed in Lincoln, Neb. which is dedicated to the chronology of the racing industry. The company will also connect two existing buildings to create a single 120,000 square-foot facility on its ten-acre campus in Warrick County.

"Indiana is known as the racing capitol of the world and companies like AFCO are part of the reason why," said Governor Mitch Daniels. "We've created the best business climate in the country and our skilled workforce and low-tax policies will help AFCO achieve further success. Companies know Indiana proudly waves the green flag when it comes to the race for new jobs."

AFCO, which produces racing suspension parts, shock absorbers, radiators and exhaust systems, plans to begin hiring new design engineers, machinists, welders, assembly workers and sales associates next year.

"Our business continues to experience rapid sales growth in all of our core product lines. We're looking forward to expanding our engineering, manufacturing, and distribution capabilities," said Jeff Scales, chief operating officer and executive vice president of AFCO. "This project was competitively sought after by several states and we are pleased with the effort put forth by Warrick County and the state of Indiana officials. They were instrumental in helping move this project forward quickly and efficiently."

Established in Boonville by Jim Scales, the company has grown from two employees in 1983 to more than 75 full-time employees in Indiana today. The family-owned and operated business' international award-winning shock absorbers are used in nearly every race track in the country.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Speedway Motors up to $200,000 in performance-based tax credits and up to $170,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. Warrick County approved additional property tax phase-in and offered funds using revenues generated from tax increment financing (TIF).

"We are very excited to help expand and develop a present company in Warrick County," said Don Williams, president of the Warrick County Commissioners. "This is an outstanding opportunity for both the company and Warrick County as they look to grow into the future."

According to a 2011 study by the Indiana Motorsports Association, more than 1,600 motorsports companies call Indiana home. These include racing teams, manufacturers, service companies as well as a representation of every area of motorsports. The industry provides jobs for more than 12,000 Hoosiers.

About AFCO
AFCO Racing Products is a manufacturer of suspension, engine cooling, and exhaust products for the automotive racing and high performance markets. AFCO's combination of technical innovation, price and quality has made it the preferred choice for professional racers and car builders since 1983. Originally founded as a small, family owned business, it now distributes products throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, Great Britain, the Middle East, Australia and New Zealand.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Online Distributor to Expand in Ripley County

2011-11-07T09:27:00.002+01:00

SUNMAN, Ind. (Nov. 2, 2011) - Concepts Industrial Asset Disposal, Inc., a distribution and asset disposal company, announced plans today to grow its operations here, creating up to 25 new jobs by 2014. The company will invest $1.77 million to purchase and equip a 108,000 square-foot facility.

"Innovative companies like Concepts Industrial continue to reinforce that Indiana is the right place for entrepreneurial businesses to invest and grow," said Dan Hasler, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. "The tremendous growth this company has experienced in a short time span illustrates the success of our talented workforce and pro-growth tax policies."

Concepts Industrial, which buys and sells heavy industrial machinery through online auction websites, currently employees 16 full-time Indiana workers. The company plans to begin hiring additional shipping clerks, sales and research associates next month.

"Deciding to stay in Indiana was our best choice," said Mike Farrell, president of Concepts Industrial. "Both IEDC and the town of Sunman were open to working with a growing company like ours. We look forward to future expansion and partnerships within the community."

Founded in 2005 and operated out of the owner's garage, the company has since grown to facilitate sales nationwide and internationally with more than $3,000,000 in revenue in 2010. The company, on average, operates between 6,000 and 8,000 online listings at any given time.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Concepts Industrial Asset Disposal, Inc. up to $130,000 in performance-based tax credits and up to $17,250 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. The town of Sunman will consider additional property tax abatement.

"The town of Sunman is proud to be the new home of an innovative and forward thinking company such as Concepts Industrial," said Wayne Jenner, president of the Sunman town council. "We know they will be a great asset to the town as well as Ripley County."

Concepts Industrial's announced expansion is the latest in a string of jobs announcements in southeast Indiana. Yesterday, Aisin Drivetrain, Inc. (ADI), a manufacturer of components and materials for the automotive industry, announced that it will expand its operations in nearby Jackson County, investing $14 million and creating approximately 40 new jobs by 2014.

About Concepts
Concepts Industrial Inc. is a distribution and asset disposal company that deals primarily with large automotive component manufacturers including General Motors, Ford and Chrysler Corporation. As a manufacturer adds new machinery and equipment lines or closes existing plants, Concepts may purchase the property being removed, and assist in the removal of the existing components. Concepts will then breakdown & refurbish electrical components, robotics, processors, sensors, motors, etc, and resell as replacement parts. Patrick M. Farrell started the company in his garage in 2005 and has grown it to a $3,000,000+ business in 2010. Approximately 70% of Concepts' sales are domestic with approximately 30% international sales.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Japanese Automotive Supplier Growing in Jackson County

2011-11-07T09:25:00.001+01:00

CROTHERSVILLE, Ind. (Nov. 1, 2011) - Aisin Drivetrain, Inc. (ADI), a manufacturer of components and materials for the automotive industry, announced today that it will expand its operations here, creating approximately 40 new jobs by 2014.

ADI, a business unit of Japan-based Aisin Seiki Company, LTD, which manufactures transmissions and torque converters, will invest $14 million to equip its current 350,000 square-foot manufacturing facility with machinery for a new manufacturing line for six-speed automatic transmissions for the light and medium-duty commercial truck market. The new line will be fully operational in December 2012.

"We are pleased to continue this long-term partnership between Indiana and ADI as the company makes yet another jobs announcement in our state," said Dan Hasler, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. "We've worked very hard to create an environment that promotes growth and creates more opportunities for Hoosiers."

ADI, which currently has 146 employees in Indiana, has already begun hiring additional manufacturing, engineering, material handling and administrative team members.

"We are excited to add this six-speed automatic transmission to our product group here at ADI," said Scott Turpin, president of ADI. "We'll be investing approximately $14 million for new equipment and facility upgrades, and will be adding approximately 40 new jobs in our initial phase of the program."

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Aisin Drivetrain, Inc. up to $150,000 in performance-based tax credits and up to $100,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. The town of Crothersville will consider additional property tax abatement at the request of the Jackson County Industrial Development Corporation.

"This is great news for Crothersville," said Ardell Mitchell, president of the Crothersville Town Council. "We are pleased that ADI once again has shown confidence in our area to expand here."

ADI joins the growing list of Japan-based companies investing their business in the Hoosier state. In October, Sunright America, a Japanese manufacturer of automotive fasteners, announced plans to grow its operations in Columbus, creating up to 100 new jobs by 2014.

About ADI
Founded in 1996, ADI is a global supplier of industrial transmissions for the forklift industry and steering columns for the automotive industry. ADI currently employs 146 team members with projected annual sales of over $65 million for 2011. ADI's parent company in Japan, Aisin Seiki Co. Ltd., is a global leader in the manufacture and supply of automotive components such as brakes, transmissions, drive train, chassis, body and information-related systems and components, and engine-related parts. Worldwide, Aisin has 165 consolidated companies and employs 73,000 people. In North and South America, the Aisin Group has 32 manufacturing plants, R & D and sales centers, and logistics operations, with approximately 8,000 employees.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Indiana Ranks High For Business Climate

2011-11-07T09:22:00.000+01:00

A prominent national publication has ranked Indiana's business climate in the top 10 for the fourth consecutive year. Site Selection says the annual list is based on economic data including tax policy and business expansion as well as a survey of business executives.

The publication's top ten business climates for 2011 are below:

1. Texas
2. Georgia
3. North Carolina
4. Virginia
5. South Carolina
6. Indiana
7. Louisiana
8. Tennessee
9. Ohio
10. Florida

Site Selection ranked Indiana in the top ten in all categories used to compile the list. Last year, Indiana was ranked eighth, up one spot from 2009.

Northwest Indiana Maps Economic Future

2011-11-07T09:20:00.000+01:00

Research from the newly-formed Regional Council of Economic Advisors estimates the value of the northwest Indiana economy is nearly $30 billion. The organization is releasing a report today focusing on several economic indicators, including employee wages, education and private sector sales. The research also shows only 12 percent of the region's work force has a Bachelor's Degree and 14 percent did not finish high school.

The report shows primary metal manufacturing continues to be the region's largest industry, while ambulatory health care services was the sector with the highest growth between 2001 and 2009.

The sectors showing the most decline during that period include construction, real estate and retail areas like gas stations.

Interactive Media Company to Locate Headquarters in Indianapolis, Creating More Than 1,000 Jobs

2011-10-28T14:14:00.001+02:00

INDIANAPOLIS - Governor Mitch Daniels and Mayor Greg Ballard joined executives from LiTEBOX, Inc. today to announce the company's plans to locate its content production studio and manufacturing facility in Indianapolis and establish its headquarters here, creating up to 1,100 new jobs by 2014.

The company, a designer and manufacturer of mobile event centers that use Panasonic and Bose Corp. technology, will invest $21 million to move its content production functions from Los Angeles, Calif. to a 12,000 square-foot space at 146 Washington St. in downtown Indianapolis. LiTEBOX will also build a manufacturing plant on 51.6 acres located on the city's north side. The content production studio is expected to open its doors in December and the manufacturing facility will be operational in the spring.

"The influx of exciting companies like LiTEBOX from high-tax, business-hostile states is accelerating across Indiana," said Daniels. "The worse the national economy gets, the more actively businesses seek out friendly, low-cost environments with highly productive workers. No place fits that description better than we do."

LiTEBOX will begin hiring new associates to coincide with facility construction and improvements. The roles will be across the company, including media, marketing, engineering, support and manufacturing.

"LiTEBOX chose to headquarter its operation in Indiana because we felt its recent economic growth has tremendous promise and benefit for our vision to provide affordable mobile family entertainment," said Bob Yanagihara, founder and chief executive officer of LiTEBOX. "Investing in Indianapolis and providing new job opportunities is also in alignment with the LiTEBOX mission, which is to develop mutually beneficial partnerships wherever we go. We are grateful to partner with such a dynamic city and state and look forward to the mutually beneficial growth that lies ahead."

Inspired by the American drive-in movie theater experience, the California-based company was founded in 2010 to provide affordable, entertaining mobile media around the country. A LiTEBOX is a 20 feet by 33 feet Panasonic LED screen housed inside a custom trailer-truck that rises above the trailer when featuring a variety of entertainment selections including movies, live concerts and sporting events.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered LiTEBOX, Inc. up to $9.8 million in performance-based tax credits and up to $200,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. The city of Indianapolis will consider additional property tax abatement at the request of Develop Indy.

"LiTEBOX could have located anywhere in the country and we are happy to welcome them to Indianapolis," said Ballard. "The decision of LiTEBOX to locate up to 1,100 manufacturing and headquarters jobs in our city reinforces the benefits of a stable, low-cost business climate and great workforce."

LiTEBOX's decision to establish its headquarters in Indianapolis comes on the heels of another high-tech company's announcement earlier this month to also locate in the city's downtown area. Kronos, Inc., a global leader in workforce management solutions, will invest $5.1 million to open its new technology center at PNC Tower, creating up to 250 new jobs by 2015.

About LiTEBOX
LiTEBOX is a new media entertainment company, which creates affordable atmospheric entertainment experiences. Using Panasonic's High Definition LED technology, LiTEBOX has created a mobile entertainment network for the distribution of various content. LiTEBOX, with its Screen Fleet of specially designed trucks, will literally drive the arts, sports, entertainment and news to all communities and demographics. The LiTEBOX business model also strives to reignite social connectivity and cooperation to deliver the affordable experiential entertainment.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Lippert Components and Kinro Expand in Elkhart County

2011-10-28T14:13:00.001+02:00

GOSHEN, Ind. - Lippert Components Manufacturing, Inc. and Kinro Manufacturing, Inc., subsidiaries of Drew Industries Incorporated (NYSE: DW), announced plans today that Goshen and Middlebury have been chosen as the sites for an expansion of operations by both companies. The expansions will create up to 330 new jobs by 2012.

The decision by the companies to locate these expansions in Elkhart County came after consideration of locations in other states. The positions are a result of continuing company growth through previously announced strategic acquisitions. A portion of the operations being expanded are a result of the relocation of operations from another state.

"Today's announcement by Lippert Components and Kinro Manufacturing further solidifies Indiana's position as the top manufacturing state in the country," said Governor Mitch Daniels. "Elkhart County's history of success in the RV industry will give these companies a leg-up on their out-of-state competition."

Lippert Components, a manufacturer of recreational vehicle and manufactured housing components, plans to invest approximately $650,000 in new machinery and equipment as part of the expansion. Kinro, a manufacturer of windows and doors for the recreational vehicle, manufactured housing and other industries, plans to invest approximately $3.5 million for the lease of a facility, and the purchase of machinery and equipment for the expanded production line.

"We are extremely pleased to continue to expand the operations of both Lippert Components and Kinro in Indiana. The state of Indiana, Elkhart County and the cities of Goshen and Middlebury have shown a strong commitment to partnering with companies like ours in the recreational vehicle industry so that our industry can not only rebound from the economic downturn but also thrive in the future. We appreciate the support we have received from state, county and local officials. These expanded operations will increase our market share and expand our customer base." said Jason Lippert, chairman and chief executive officer of Lippert Components and Kinro.

With approximately 4,000 employees nationally, Lippert Components and Kinro currently employ more than 2,800 full-time workers at locations throughout northern Indiana. The company plans to begin filling the new manufacturing and administrative positions this fall. Lippert Components and Kinro currently operate 31 facilities in 12 states.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Lippert Components Manufacturing, Inc. up to $1.55 million in performance-based tax credits and up to $165,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. Elkhart County and the city of Goshen will consider additional property tax abatement at the request of the Economic Development Corporation of Elkhart County.

"We are proud that Lippert Components and Kinro have decided to continue their commitment to Goshen and Elkhart County with these new investments in capital and jobs," said Goshen Mayor Allan Kauffman. "As a Goshen-based company, Lippert Components has become one of our largest and most valued employers. This announcement is further evidence that our local economy is experiencing strong growth, thanks largely to the rebound in durable goods manufacturing."

RV production in the Hoosier state continues to increase during the national economic recession. According to the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association, the RV industry produced 242,000 units nationally in 2010, a 46 percent increase from the year before. More than 83 percent of all American-made RVs built during this time period were produced in Indiana.

About Lippert Components and Kinro
Lippert Components and Kinro supply a broad array of components for RVs and manufactured homes, including chassis, chassis parts, RV slide-out mechanisms, axles, upholstered furniture, mattresses, windows, doors, and thermoformed products. Additional information about Lippert Components and Kinro can be found at www.lci1.com and www.kinro.com.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Lift Truck Manufacturer to Grow Production in Henry County

2011-10-28T14:12:00.001+02:00

NEW CASTLE, Ind. - Lt. Governor Becky Skillman joined executives from Crown Equipment Corporation, a manufacturer of materials handling equipment, today to announce that the company will expand its operations here, creating up to 150 new jobs by 2013.

The company, which makes a variety of lift trucks and hand pallet trucks for manufacturers and retailers, will invest more than $15 million to purchase and renovate the 982,000 square-foot former Metaldyne building and purchase new machinery to increase capacity in support of current operations.

"Crown is a large, nationally-recognized company with many options to expand," said Skillman. "These new jobs could have landed somewhere else, but Indiana's low cost of doing business and Crown's continuing commitment to our state is once again creating opportunities for east central Indiana workers."

The company currently has more than 580 employees throughout its seven locations in Indiana. It plans to begin hiring additional manufacturing, maintenance and service personnel this fall to coincide with facility improvements and expanded manufacturing capacity.

"The New Castle facility gives Crown the needed floor space to support our expanding product line. In addition, the location is centrally located to our other facilities, which affords us some logistics benefits. We have had great success with our other operations in Indiana and we look forward to continuing that success," said Jim Dicke III, president of Crown.

Founded in 1945, the company originally manufactured temperature controls for coal burning furnaces. Entering the materials handling industry in 1957, Crown is now among the world's largest manufacturers of lift trucks. Crown operates 11 manufacturing facilities in North America, Europe, Asia and Australia.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Crown Equipment Corporation up to $1.2 million in performance-based tax credits based on the company's job creation plans. The city of New Caste will consider additional property tax abatement at the request of the Henry County Development Center Inc.

"The city of New Castle is very appreciative of Crown's decision to select New Castle as a location for their new manufacturing facility," said Mayor Jim Small. "Crown is well known for their quality and innovation and is a great match for our community's highly skilled manufacturing workforce."

Crown's announced expansion is the latest in a series of manufacturing announcements in Central Indiana. Just last week, LEP Special Fasteners, a manufacturer of specialty steel fasteners, announced plans to relocate parts of its operations from Illinois to Frankfort, creating up to 160 new jobs by 2015. Also, Böttcher America Corporation, a manufacturer of printing and industrial materials, recently announced plans to expand its operations in Tipton, creating up to 35 new jobs by 2014.

About Crown Equipment Corporation
Crown is one of the world's largest lift truck manufacturers. Crown's award-winning line of lift trucks maintains a reputation for exceptional product design, engineering and manufacturing. From the smallest hand pallet truck to the highest lifting turret truck, Crown seeks to provide users with safe, efficient and ergonomic lift trucks that lower total cost of ownership and maximize uptime. Headquartered in New Bremen, Ohio, Crown manufactures lift trucks that are sold throughout the world.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Kronos to Open New Technology Center of Excellence in Indianapolis

2011-10-28T14:11:00.002+02:00

INDIANAPOLIS - Lt. Governor Becky Skillman and Mayor Greg Ballard joined executives from Kronos Incorporated today to announce that the company will open a new office in Indianapolis, creating up to 250 new jobs by 2015.

Headquartered in Chelmsford, Mass., Kronos is a global leader in workforce management solutions that enable organizations to control labor costs, minimize compliance risk and improve workforce productivity. The company plans to invest more than $5.1 million on its new technology center at PNC Tower in downtown Indianapolis. The Indianapolis technology center, which will open its doors in January, will be focused on providing customer implementation services and will complement other Kronos technology centers in Chelmsford, Mass.; Montreal, Canada; and Noida, India.
"Kronos' decision to open its new technology center here is proof that Indiana is an ideal place for growth-oriented, high-tech companies to do business," said Skillman. "We welcome Kronos to the Indianapolis community and are excited that the types of jobs this up-and-coming company will be creating are the ones that our bright Hoosiers are looking for."

Founded in 1977, Kronos produced the world's first microprocessor-based time clock in 1979. Today, organizations in more than 60 countries around the world, including more than half of the Fortune 1000®, use the company's time and attendance, scheduling, absence management, HR and payroll, hiring and labor analytics applications. Kronos has a number of customers based in Indianapolis including Ball State University, Indiana University Health, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and St. Vincent Heart Center of Indiana.

"Kronos is excited to be expanding into the vibrant city of Indianapolis and looks forward to contributing to the business landscape and providing high-quality jobs for the talented graduates of top-notch local universities," said Chris Todd, Kronos senior vice president of services. "Kronos is committed to innovation and providing the best products and services to customers around the world, and we look forward to bringing our culture of innovation to Indianapolis."

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Kronos Incorporated up to $2.5 million in performance-based tax credits and up to $300,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. The city of Indianapolis and Develop Indy will support Kronos with a training grant and parking assistance, as well as a property tax abatement, pending approval from the Metropolitan Development Commission. The Indy Partnership provided site selection assistance and data analysis.

"Indianapolis is a leader in information technology with firms that are recognized globally for their expertise and specialized software. We are pleased to add Kronos to our growing list of innovation leaders," said Ballard. "These high-tech companies benefit from our skilled workforce, attractive business climate and a tremendous quality of life that makes it possible to attract and retain the best and brightest workers. We are thrilled Kronos has chosen to expand in Indianapolis."

According to TechAmerica Foundation's Cyberstates 2011 report released last week, Indiana is the 23rd largest cyberstate employing more than 70,000 people in 2010, with a total payroll of $4.3 billion. Last year, the largest employment gains in the Hoosier state's high-tech industry came from the computer systems design and related services sector and the engineering services sector.

About Kronos Incorporated
Kronos is the global leader in workforce management solutions that enable organizations to control labor costs, minimize compliance risk, and improve workforce productivity. Tens of thousands of organizations in 60 countries - including more than half of the Fortune 1000® - use Kronos time and attendance, scheduling, absence management, HR and payroll, hiring, and labor analytics applications. To learn how Kronos uniquely delivers complete automation and high-quality information in an easy-to-use solution, visit www.kronos.com.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Global Manufacturer to Expand in Frankfort

2011-10-28T14:10:00.002+02:00

FRANKFORT, Ind. - Lt. Governor Becky Skillman joined executives from LEP Special Fasteners, Inc., a manufacturer of specialty steel fasteners, today to announce the company's plans to relocate parts of its operations from Illinois to here, creating up to 160 new jobs by 2015.

The company, a subsidiary of Italian-based Fontana Fasteners Group, will relocate parts of its management, sales and distribution functions of Fontana America, Inc. and Fontana USA, Inc. from Elgin, Ill. to Frankfort and expand and equip its current facility by 250,000 square feet. This expansion will more than double the existing capacity at the manufacturing plant.

"We're thrilled to have an international company like LEP choose to invest its key operations in Indiana and further establish a home away from home in our state," said Skillman. "Because of our talented workforce and competitive low-tax policies, we're able to bring more jobs to Hoosiers and solidify Indiana's reputation as a leader in manufacturing."

LEP, which currently employs 190 full-time employees in Indiana, plans to begin the initial hiring process for new administrative, management, sales and distribution associates next month.

"Indiana was selected for the expansion and the investment because of the strong support of the state of Indiana and Clinton County for the project, the company's excellent employee base with its current workforce, the pro-business climate of the state of Indiana, and the advantageous geographic location for servicing its customer base," said Giuseppe Zichella, chief executive officer of LEP. "Being a family business, we are committed to success in the long run. The Fontana family businesses are based on strong, mutually beneficial relationships between employer, employee, the community and the environment. We believe LEP's core value of teamwork, responsibility and trust will ensure success."

LEP specializes in manufacturing standard and to-print fasteners for the agricultural, transportation, construction and automotive markets. The company's products can be found in famous structures including Chicago O'Hare Airport's United Airlines Terminal, Philadelphia's One Liberty Place Center and Cleveland's Progressive Field. LEP serves a broad manufacturing customer base including Caterpillar, Paccar, John Deere, Cummins, Chrysler and Volkswagen.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered LEP Special Fasteners, Inc. up to $3,000,000 in performance-based tax credits and up to $200,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. Clinton County has approved additional tax abatement.

"Clinton County is a better place with LEP being here. Their dedication to being the best in their business creates an attitude of excellence that benefits our entire community," said Shan Sheridan, economic development director at the Clinton County Chamber of Commerce. "Although this expansion and investment is vital to economic growth, it is the commitment and conviction LEP has to its core values that makes them a great partner."

About LEP Special Fasteners
LEP Special Fasteners specializes in manufacturing standard and to-print fasteners for the agricultural, transportation, construction and automotive markets. Its manufacturing, distribution and company offices are located in Frankfort, Ind. For more information about LEP Special Fasteners, please visit www.lepinc.com.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Global Materials Manufacturer Expanding in Tipton

2011-10-28T14:08:00.001+02:00

TIPTON, Ind. - Böttcher America Corporation, a manufacturer of printing and industrial materials, announced plans today to expand its operations here, creating up to 35 new jobs by 2014.

The company, which produces rollers, press room chemicals and printing blankets for the graphic arts, packaging and converting industries, will invest $2.1 million to purchase new equipment and expand its manufacturing capabilities with a 30,000 square-foot addition to its current facility.

"It's not surprising to see a company with a rich history like Böttcher find Indiana as a great place to do business," said Dan Hasler, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. "As a leader in manufacturing, more jobs are being created for Hoosiers thanks to our state's competitive low-tax policies and pro-business climate."

Böttcher, which currently has 40 full-time employees in Indiana, plans to begin hiring machine operators, warehouse, technical and supervisory associates next year.

"As our packaging and industrial roller business continues to grow, it has become necessary to expand our offering of compounds and add new equipment capable of handling larger sized rollers," said David Dinsmore, president of Böttcher America. "We looked at various options and decided to expand our existing facility because of its proximity to our Midwest customer base and because of the support we get from the town and county of Tipton."

Böttcher was founded in 1878 in Leipzig, Germany and began manufacturing gelatin printing rollers. In 1983, Böttcher established Böttcher America near Baltimore, Md. and in 1997, added a second manufacturing facility in Tipton, Ind. The company also has international facilities in Eastern Europe, Southeast Asia and South America.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Böttcher America Corporation up to $180,000 in performance-based tax credits and up to $24,500 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. The city of Tipton initially approved additional property tax abatement and a $100,000 loan from the city's revolving loan program.

"Böttcher has been a great corporate citizen and we're thankful they've chosen to expand in Tipton," said Mayor Dan Delph. "We will continue to stand alongside them as they look to grow into the future."

Böttcher's announcement is the latest in a series of jobs announcements in the manufacturing industry. Just last week, Wieland Designs, a manufacturer of furniture and transportation interior components, announced that it will expand its operations in Goshen, creating up to 120 new jobs by 2015. Also, Sunright America, a Japanese manufacturer of automotive fasteners, recently announced plans to grow its operations in Columbus, creating up to 100 new jobs by 2014.

About Böttcher
Böttcher, which traces its beginnings back to Cologne, Germany in 1725, is a global manufacturer selling into 80 countries from 21 production facilities. Böttcher America, founded in 1983 with the acquisition of the Harrigan Roller Company, Inc., oversees all North American activities via manufacturing plants and sales offices in Mississauga, Canada and Mexico City, Mexico. For more information about Böttcher, visit www.bottcher.com.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Furniture Manufacturer to Grow in Elkhart County

2011-10-28T14:06:00.000+02:00

GOSHEN, Ind. - Wieland Designs, Inc., a manufacturer of furniture and transportation interior components, announced today that it will expand its operations here, creating up to 120 new jobs by 2015.

Headquartered in Goshen, the company plans to invest $1 million to improve existing facilities and purchase specialized machinery to enhance production capabilities in its 210,000 square-foot facility. These improvements are planned in several phases spanning the next three years.

"Wieland Designs' continued investment and expansion in our state exemplifies the confidence companies have in Indiana's business climate," said Governor Mitch Daniels. "Our low-tax policies and highly-skilled workforce have made Indiana the premier manufacturing state in the country."

Founded in 1976 by Cliff Wieland, Wieland Designs began as a manufacturer of automotive seats for the van-conversion industry. Today, the privately-held company designs, engineers and manufactures furniture and transportation interior components for the healthcare, corporate, residential, automotive and airline industries.

"At Wieland Designs, we're very proud of our world-class design, engineering and manufacturing capabilities. Our customers reaffirm that opinion as we continue to experience strong growth across all of our business segments," said Kip Wieland, chief executive officer of Wieland Designs. "Our success is a testament to our team of Goshen-based associates. With its business-friendly policies, high-quality administrative and engineering talent and strong labor force, it makes sense for us to expand right here at home in Indiana."

The company, which currently has 146 employees in Indiana, will begin hiring additional sewing operators, manufacturing and administrative associates later this month. Wieland Designs will be holding an onsite job fair, Oct. 22 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at its 901 E. Madison headquarters in Goshen, to provide information, accept applications and screen candidates for up to 35 full-time industrial sewing operator. These positions offer competitive wages, a generous, affordable health insurance program, paid vacation and a 401(k) retirement savings plan that includes a company match on associate contributions.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Wieland Designs, Inc. up to $1,300,000 in performance-based tax credits and up to $100,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. The city of Goshen will consider additional property tax abatement.

"Wieland Designs is poised to execute an aggressive growth plan and we are delighted they have selected Goshen for this expansion project," said Mayor Allan Kauffman. "We are pleased to partner with the Indiana Economic Development Corporation in bringing a significant number of new skilled jobs to Goshen."

Just last month, the Bureau of Economic Analysis reported that the Elkhart-Goshen area was one of the third fastest growing metropolitan areas in 2010 with overall real gross domestic product (GDP) growth of 13 percent. These gains put this metro area in third place in the U.S. for highest real GDP growth.

About Wieland Designs
Wieland Designs is a leader in the design, engineering and manufacture of premium furniture, furniture assemblies and seating components to a variety of industries. Its primary business segments include: healthcare furniture; office and hospitality furniture; residential furniture; and, transportation interior components and services. With over 145 associates, Wieland Designs provides some of the world's leading global furniture, aviation and automotive brands with OEM contract manufacturing, and serves the hospitality market through its own proprietary brand, Logic Furniture. The company is privately held and holds ISO 9001, ISO 13485 and FAA Certified 145 Repair Station certifications. Information about Wieland Designs can be found at the company's web sites: www.wielanddesigns.com and www.logicfurniture.com.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Japanese Automotive Parts Manufacturer Expanding in Bartholomew County

2011-10-28T14:05:00.000+02:00

COLUMBUS, Ind. - Sunright America, Inc., a Japanese manufacturer of automotive fasteners, announced plans today to grow its operations here, creating up to 100 new jobs by 2014.

The company will expand its current 170,000 square-foot building in Columbus to 320,000 square feet. It will begin construction and installation of new manufacturing equipment this fall.

"It is especially gratifying to welcome these new jobs to Indiana on the heels of the Lieutenant Governor's successful jobs mission in Japan," said Governor Mitch Daniels. "As the country's top manufacturing state, there is no better place for Sunright to expand its business than Indiana and Columbus will continue to be a great home for this global success story."

Sunright, which currently has 93 full-time employees in Indiana, plans to begin hiring additional manufacturing, quality and production control associates to coincide with facility improvements.

Incorporated in Indiana in 2002, Sunright's parent company, Sugiura Seisakusho Co., Ltd., is located in Aichi, Japan. In 2008, Sunright expanded and moved to its current Columbus location. The company, which primarily manufactures weld nuts and flange nuts, supplies to approximately 80 customers including Toyota and Hino.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Sunright America, Inc. up to $550,000 in performance-based tax credits and up to $200,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. The city of Columbus will consider additional property tax abatement at the request of the Columbus Economic Development Board.

"We are thrilled to have a company like Sunright double its size in Columbus," said Mayor Fred Armstrong. "The 17 Japanese companies that call Columbus home are very important to us, and Sunright has been a model corporate citizen in our community."

Sunright joins the growing list of Japanese companies investing their business in Indiana. So far this year, five Japanese companies have made plans to locate or expand in the Hoosier state for a total of more than 240 projected new jobs and more than $68 million in investment.

About Sunright
Sunright America, Inc. manufactures and sells automobile fasteners. The company takes great care to make sure that every fastener that we produce meets our strict standards of quality and excellence that our customers deserve. For more information, visit www.sunrightamerica.com.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Automotive Technology Company Expanding in Indianapolis

2011-10-28T14:04:00.001+02:00

INDIANAPOLIS - Bishop Steering Technology, Inc., a designer of steering gear technologies for the automotive and racing industries, announced plans today to expand its operations here, creating up to 25 new jobs by 2014.

The company will invest $10.4 million to lease and equip a 13,000 square-foot facility. Production will begin at the new facility at the end of the month.

"Having an innovative company like Bishop growing in Indiana is further evidence of our state's successful pro-business climate," said Dan Hasler, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. "This expansion adds to Indiana's already cutting edge automotive industry and further enhances our position as the motorsports capital of the world."

Bishop, which currently has 26 full-time employees in Indiana, plans to begin hiring production engineers, operators and logistics associates next year.

"Bishop is proud to call Indiana home," said John G. Naidus, president and director of Bishop Steering Technology. "The cooperation and assistance from both Indiana state officials and representatives from the city of Indianapolis have helped Bishop obtain a competitive edge in the market place, both financially and with the assistance to develop quality staff. As a long-time resident of Indiana, I know Indiana is a great place for employees to live and raise their families. Choosing Indiana was an easy decision."

The company's founder, Arthur Bishop, invented VR steering for aircraft nose wheels and motor vehicles and was granted the first variable ratio rack and pinion patent for cars. In January 2011, Bishop was acquired by GMH Stahlverarbeitung GmbH, a subsidiary company of the Steel Processing Unit of Georgesmarienhütte Holding GmbH. Today, Bishop has more than 250 patents and patent applications in 17 countries as well as numerous licensees worldwide.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Bishop Steering Technology, Inc. up to $200,000 in performance-based tax credits based on the company's job creation plans. The city of Indianapolis will consider additional property tax abatement at the request of Develop Indy.

"Businesses across the nation are taking notice of our outstanding fiscal climate and low taxes, and we are aggressively pursuing companies to move or expand to Indianapolis and bring with them new jobs," said Mayor Greg Ballard. "Bishop's addition of 25 new jobs builds upon our growing manufacturing industry and offers great opportunity for our talented workforce. We welcome this addition to the city's northeast side."

Bishop's announcement comes just one week after Project Lead the Way, a national nonprofit that provides education curricular programs for middle and high schools, announced plans to relocate its headquarters from New York to Indianapolis. As part of the project, the company plans to invest $6.37 million and create up to 44 new jobs by 2014.

About Bishop
Bishop Steering Technology, Inc. is a world leader in the development of automotive steering systems, specializing in the design and supply of leading edge rack and pinion steering technologies for automotive and motorsports applications. In addition, Bishop brings its diverse skills to deliver process-engineering solutions to the global manufacturing industry.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Vera Bradley to Open New Distribution Center in Allen County

2011-10-28T13:49:00.000+02:00

ROANOKE, Ind. - Vera Bradley, Inc. (NASDAQ: VRA), designer of handbags, gifts, travel and accessories, announced plans today to expand its operations here, creating up to 124 new jobs by 2015.

The company will invest approximately $22.5 million to expand its current 220,000 square-foot distribution center in Roanoke to 420,000 square feet. This expansion is scheduled to begin this fall and includes additional warehouse space, truck docks and retail store staging areas. The new facility is expected to be operational in Fall 2012.

"Vera Bradley is a standout homegrown success story," said Governor Mitch Daniels. "This highly-successful company continues to recognize Indiana as the destination of choice for new job-creating investment and we couldn't be more proud."

Vera Bradley, which currently employs 840 full-time workers in Indiana, will begin hiring additional administrative and warehouse associates in Roanoke later this year to coincide with facility improvements.

"Northeast Indiana has been incredibly supportive of Vera Bradley over the years, and we are pleased to be investing in our local community," said Michael C. Ray, chief executive officer of Vera Bradley. "This expansion of our distribution center will position the company to achieve our long-term growth objectives."

Headquartered in Fort Wayne, Ind., the company was founded 29 years ago by Barbara Bradley Baekgaard and Patricia R. Miller who were inspired to start the company when they noticed a lack of feminine-looking luggage while waiting at an airport terminal. Today, Vera Bradley has more than 1,800 employees worldwide and reported fiscal 2011 sales as $366 million.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Vera Bradley, Inc. up to $975,000 in performance-based tax credits and up to $100,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. Fort Wayne and Allen County will consider additional incentives at the request of the Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance.

"We are pleased to have a publicly-traded company that is headquartered in Allen County reinvest in the community with this latest expansion," said Nelson Peters, Allen County commissioner. "Vera Bradley is a great example of entrepreneurial success and demonstrates why Allen County is ideal for the warehousing and distribution industry. We value the efforts of this company and all that it does for the community through providing quality jobs and fundraising for breast cancer research."

About Vera Bradley
Friends Barbara Bradley Baekgaard and Patricia R. Miller founded Vera Bradley in 1982. Today, Vera Bradley is sold through 3,300 specialty stores and 50 Vera Bradley stores nationwide. Vera Bradley accessories, handbags and travel, and paper & gift items have recently been spotted on Desperate Housewives, Brothers and Sisters, Entourage and Modern Family, and in more than 20 feature-length films. Vera Bradley's fiscal 2011 sales were $366 million. Visit www.verabradley.com for a store near you or to learn more.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Dan Hasler serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

IBM Likes Indiana Work Force

2011-09-28T09:25:00.000+02:00

Economic development officials in Delaware County believe the expansion of IBM Corp. (NYSE: IBM) operations in Daleville is another indication of the region's strong work force. The global technology company says 175 more employees started working this week at its Daleville operations. Muncie-Delaware County Economic Development Alliance Vice President Terry Murphy says other locations were considered, but the top factor was the quality of an area's work force.

(Daleville, Ind.) IBM Corporation has showcased its new Business Process Center in Daleville. The center is located in the Heartland Business Center and has 175 new fully trained employees supporting the customers of a leading global electronics brand. "IBM opened its first center on Commerce Drive three years ago," said Kent Holcomb, IBM Senior State Executive. "Today's announcement is directly tied to the skill of our employees and superior customer service being delivered in Daleville."

For example, one of IBM's consumer electronics customers in Daleville has been recognized with the Call Center Excellence Award North America, ranking them as one of the top five companies in the country for consumer feedback. The award, sponsored by the International Quality and Productivity Center, is based on consumer satisfaction survey ratings. Since January, IBM’s work for a major health care provider has increased productivity by 38 percent while maintaining quality measurement at 99.6 percent for more than 160,000 clients.

The Muncie-Delaware Economic Development Alliance, Delaware County Commissioners and Delaware County Redevelopment Commission have played key roles in creating the business environment that is central to this expansion. The Redevelopment Commission approved the use tax increment financing funds as an incentive to help bring the new jobs and investment to Daleville. "This announcement is a reflection of the quality of our local workforce," said Terry Murphy, vice president of Muncie-Delaware Economic Development. "With the addition of these jobs, IBM is now one of the largest employers in our area."

According to IBM officials, the centers in Daleville are continually working to secure new business to support added expansion. The motto of the centers is Smart, Helpful and Valuable. Their commitment to customer service, efficiency, accountability and value has created a culture of excellence this has translated into meaningful business results and value for IBM Daleville's customers.

"We are excited to be here today and see the success IBM is having in Delaware County," said Todd Donati, President of the Delaware County Commissioners. "The Commissioners are dedicated to job growth and we are pleased to have played a role in bringing these jobs to our community.

"This is a substantial expansion of an existing business and that is great news for Delaware County," said Jay Julian, President and CEO of the Muncie-Delaware County Chamber of Commerce. "IBM's continued investment in our community shows their confidence that Delaware County is a community that allows the company to continue to grow and prosper."

Source: IBM Corp.

Indiana Among 'Top States For Doing Business'

2011-09-28T09:05:00.001+02:00

A national site selection publication ranks Indiana among the top 5 states in the nation for doing business. Area Development magazine says the rankings are based on a group of location consultants, who are asked to make choices in one dozen categories.

WESTBURY, N.Y. -- Area Development, the leading publication covering site selection and facility planning, has announced the results of its 2011 Top States For Doing Business survey of leading location consultants. According to the results, the top-10 states for doing business are Texas, Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, Indiana, Louisiana, North Carolina, Tennessee, Mississippi, and California in that order.

Area Development asked a select group of highly respected location consultants who work with a nationwide client base to name their top-5 state choices in 12 site selection categories, as follows:

Business environment
1. Overall cost of doing business
2. Incentives programs
3. Business friendliness
4. Corporate tax environment

Labor climate
1. Labor availability
2. Labor costs
3. Work force development programs

Infrastructure/global access
1. Rail & highway accessibility
2. Certified sites & shovel-ready programs
3. Competitive utility rates
4. Access to global markets

Economy
1. Leading in the economic recovery

States were ranked in each of the 12 categories above based on the number of times they were named as a “top-5” choice by the responding consultants. Next, a top-5 state’s ranking in each of the 12 categories was assigned a weight in accordance with its position in these individual categories. Based on these total weighted scores, Texas significantly led all other states as the consultants’ #1 choice for doing business, followed by the states listed above.

The top-5 states based on weighted scores were each mentioned in at least 8 of 12 categories. Three other states — Louisiana, Mississippi, and North Carolina — were mentioned among the top-5 states in 6 of 12 categories, and Tennessee was mentioned in 4 of 12. Several other states made the top-5 listings in the 12 individual categories but were mentioned in fewer categories overall. Nonetheless, these states also are considered among 2011’s top states for doing business according to the consultants responding to our survey.

A full review of this year’s Top States for Doing Business is presented in the Fall 2011 issue of Area Development and is posted online at http://www.areadevelopment.com/top-states.

Area Development (www.areadevelopment.com), published since 1965, is bi-monthly and has 42,000 executive subscribers. It also has produced more than 25 Best Practices Consultants Forums for economic developers since 2006.

Source: Area Development

Global Wind Blade Manufacturer to Locate in Southern Indiana

2011-09-14T09:48:00.000+02:00

EVANSVILLE, Ind. (Sept. 13, 2011) - Governor Mitch Daniels joined executives from GBT USA, Inc., a designer and manufacturer of wind turbine blades, today to announce the company's plans to open a facility here and create up to 400 new jobs by 2014 in southern Indiana.
The clean technology company, a subsidiary of Global Blade Technology, will lease and equip 45,000 square feet of space at Park41. The new office and manufacturing facility will house the company's engineering design and consultancy offices and the production lines of wind blades, molds and tooling. In 2013, the company plans to build an additional facility in southern Indiana to manufacture composite rotor blades for wind turbine generators. The company projects to invest $17.6 million for leasing, construction and equipment costs at the two facilities.
"Indiana has been the nation's fastest-growing wind power state, and it is now being reflected in the arrival of great supplier companies like GBT," said Daniels. "We are thrilled to have earned the business of this outstanding international company."
According to the American Wind Energy Association, Indiana increased its installed wind capacity ten-fold in 2009 and 2010, becoming one of the fastest growing states for wind power. With 2.4 percent of the state's power provided by wind last year, Indiana is ranked 12th in the country for most installed wind power capacity, all of it in the last few years. It is estimated that the wind power industry created up to 2,000 direct and indirect jobs in the Hoosier state in 2010.

GBT USA plans to hire additional personnel in southern Indiana in phases with 40 new employees by 2012 and up to 400 cumulative positions filled by 2014. The new associates will be across the company, including manufacturing, engineering, logistics and customer service.
"GBT is capitalizing on an underserved segment of the wind energy market," said Dan Oberle, general manager of GBT USA. "Evansville is an ideal location to serve the industry as it is centrally located to the massive wind farms of the Midwest and the flurry of offshore activity to the east and south."
Founded in 2009, Global Blade Technology is headquartered in Wieringerwerf, Netherlands, with operations in India and the United States. GBT USA was incorporated in 2009 in Cincinnati, Ohio, and focuses on designing and producing custom rotor blades for wind turbine generators for customers around the world.
The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered GBT USA, Inc. up to $2,800,000 in performance-based tax credits and up to $200,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. The city of Evansville is receiving a federal Community Development Block Grant from the state's Office of Community and Rural Affairs for purchase of capital equipment for the firm's new Evansville operations. Also, the city of Evansville is offering the company a 10-year Evansville Urban Enterprise Zone Investment Deduction and a loan through the Evansville Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) which is expected to be approved by the Evansville RLF Board later today.
"Once again, our diligence, collaboration, workforce development, and preparation have paid off," said Evansville Mayor Jonathan Weinzapfel. "Evansville had the right facility in the right location with the right infrastructure and amenities - and collaborated with the State to offer the right set of economic incentives - to entice GBT USA to establish its first U.S. manufacturing facility right here in Evansville."
Green jobs account for 1.7 percent of the state's total employment, according to a survey by the Indiana Business Research Center and the Indiana Department of Workforce Development. In June, Fronius, an Austrian clean technology company and fourth-largest solar inverter producer in the world, announced that it will relocate its North American headquarters from Michigan to Portage, creating up to 512 new jobs by 2016.
About GBT
Global Blade Technology (GBT) is an engineering company focused on wind rotor blades, including design, tooling, and manufacturing technology. GBT does fundamental process and materials research, mold production and advanced blade manufacturing systems. GBT was incorporated in the Netherlands in 2009, and boasts over 70 years of collective blade technology experience. The company is headquartered in Wieringerwerf, Netherlands, with operations in Vadodara, India, and Cincinnati, Ohio.

More Infrastructure Improvements Planned For Indy

2011-09-14T09:30:00.000+02:00

Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard has announced $40 million in additional RebuildIndy projects. The work involves street resurfacing along with bridge, curb and sidewalk improvements. Ballard says more than $142 million in previously announced projects have been completed since the initiative was launched one year ago today.

INDIANAPOLIS – Mayor Greg Ballard today announced the fourth round of RebuildIndy improvements of 2011, detailing $40 million in projects that will be bid this year. The work includes street resurfacing improvements and bridge, curb, sidewalk and thoroughfare enhancements in neighborhoods throughout Marion County.

More than $142 million in previously announced RebuildIndy projects have been completed. Since Mayor Ballard launched RebuildIndy on Sept. 9, 2010, the initiative has delivered improvements ranging from road and bridge repair to accessible crosswalks with ramps to enhance our community’s walkability.

“The unprecedented work accomplished in the past year creates jobs, increases quality of life and continues our drive to make Indianapolis a great destination for businesses and families,” said Mayor Ballard. “Adding an additional $40 million in projects will result in even more visible and positive changes that few cities in America can match.”

The projects announced today bring the total value of RebuildIndy investment to more than $182 million. RebuildIndy projects include neighborhood enhancements in all nine Marion County townships. Highlights of the work announced today include:

Bridge rehabilitation:

Emerson Avenue Bridge over Massachusetts Avenue

Resurfacing:
Keystone Avenue from Raymond Street to Prospect Street

Resurfacing:
56th Street from Guion Road to Cooper Road

Curb and sidewalk repair:
Carson Avenue from Sparrow Avenue to Teakwood Drive

RebuildIndy is Mayor Ballard’s initiative to repair crumbling infrastructure throughout Marion County. For more information and a complete project list of the RebuildIndy investment to date, visit www.indy.gov/rebuildindy.

Source: City of Indianapolis

Hill-Rom Acquires European Companies

2011-09-14T09:27:00.001+02:00

Batesville-based Hill-Rom Holdings Inc. (NYSE: HRC) is acquiring distribution companies in Europe. The company says the $20 million deal is another step in its strategy for international expansion and increasing its distribution presence, especially in key European markets.

BATESVILLE, Ind., Sept. 8, 2011 -- Hill-Rom Holdings, Inc., (NYSE: HRC) today announced the approximately $20 million acquisition of Liko France, SAS, Item SA and Liko Care AG, the distribution companies for Hill-Rom's Liko patient mobility products in France and Switzerland. Hill-Rom, the global leader in patient support solutions, expanded its patient mobility product offering with the 2008 acquisition of Liko, A.B., a leading provider of patient lift systems. Last year, Hill-Rom reorganized its regional operations to more directly serve its patients' and customers' needs. Today's acquisition is another step in Hill-Rom's strategy for international expansion, leveraging and increasing its direct channel presence, especially in key European markets.

"We are focused on global expansion and are firmly committed to delivering outstanding patient mobility solutions," said Alejandro Infante, Senior Vice President and President, International for Hill-Rom. "This acquisition furthers those goals, while growing our key channel presence in Europe." Hill-Rom expects the acquisition to add approximately $15 million of annual revenue.

ABOUT HILL-ROM HOLDINGS, INC.

Hill-Rom is a leading worldwide manufacturer and provider of medical technologies and related services for the health care industry, including patient support systems, safe mobility and handling solutions, non-invasive therapeutic products for a variety of acute and chronic medical conditions, medical equipment rentals, and information technology solutions. Hill-Rom's comprehensive product and service offerings are used by health care providers across the health care continuum and around the world in hospitals, extended care facilities and home care settings to enhance the safety and quality of patient care.

Hill-Rom ... enhancing outcomes for patients and their caregivers.

Source: Hill-Rom Holding Inc.

Magazine Names Region's Top Business Leaders

2011-09-14T09:23:00.000+02:00

A 2011 list of northwest Indiana's top business and community leaders has been unveiled. The publisher of Northwest Indiana Business Quarterly says winners were based on leadership success and community involvement.

Seventeen leading Northwest Indiana CEOs, one CFO and community leaders for 2011 have been named according to results of the latest reader survey. Nominations were sought from Northwest Indiana Business Quarterly magazine business readers and peers.

“The region’s best business and community leaders were selected based on their leadership success, business acumen and involvement in the community,” says Glee Renick-May, owner and publisher of May Communications LLC.

The top CEOs were Desila Rosetti of Organizational Development Solutions Inc. of Westville; John Davies of Woodland Communications of Valparaiso; John P. Phair of Holladay Property Services of Portage; Julie Rizzo of U.S. Greenworks LLC of St. John; Laura Smith-Wynn of Indiana Parenting Institute Inc. of Merrillville; Mike Falk of PLI Engineering & Surveying in Portage; Peter Novak of the Greater Northwest Indiana Association of Realtors in Merrillville; Rick Rondinelli of In Touch Pharmaceuticals in Valparaiso; Sarah Oudman of Treasure Homes Inc. in DeMotte; Stewart McMillan of Task Force Tips in Valparaiso; and Thomas F. Prisby of Citizens Financial Bank of Munster.

The top chief financial officer was Robert Lowry of Peoples Bank in Munster.

Community leaders were Sharon Sporman, executive director of Omni 41 Fitness in Schererville; Andrew Fox, president of the Chicago SouthShore and South Bend Freight in Michigan City; Noel Reitmeister, a financial advisor with Wells Fargo Advisors in Merrillville; Heather Ennis, executive director of the Chesterton Chamber of Commerce; and the Rev. May and Willie Thomas of New Life Christian Center in Gary.

Complete details will be published in the October issue of Northwest Indiana Business Quarterly, along with a complete list of 2010 leader recipients and CEOs.

About Northwest Indiana Business Magazine: Established in 1991, Northwest Indiana Business Magazine is celebrating 20 years serving the greater Northwest Indiana Business Community. The magazine is a proud media sponsor for the 2011 NWI Society of Innovators, Indiana Companies to Watch, Northwest Indiana Entrepreneurial Excellence Awards and Speaking of Women’s Health. For more information on the magazine and its content, visit the Web site www.nwibq.com or follow it on Facebook or Twitter.

Source: Northwest Indiana Business Magazine

State Revenues Beat Projections

2011-09-14T09:21:00.001+02:00

The state says August revenues were $12 million ahead of projections and about $40 million higher than the same period last year. The positive report is being tempered by the anticipation of a weaker national economy. State Budget Agency Director Adam Horst says state revenues could fall by several hundred million dollars based on lower national projections.

he state is reporting higher sales tax and income tax collections compared to last year.

It says corporate income tax collections missed projections for August and the riverboat wagering tax collections were also low.

That is a reflection of declining attendance at many venues.
Source: Indiana Department of Revenue

Rankings Place Indiana Schools Among World's Best

2011-09-14T09:17:00.001+02:00

A higher education research company has placed three universities in Indiana among the top 300 in the world. Quacquarelli Symonds has included Purdue University, the University of Notre Dame and Indiana University in this year's QS World University rankings.
The list takes into account academic reputation, global research and teaching standards.

Purdue is the leading school in the state on the list at 85, while IU is ranked 216 and Notre Dame is number 223.

QS has been ranking universities since 2004. It considered more than 2,000 schools this year.

Source: uacquarelli Symonds, www.topuniversities.com

Initiative Aims to Make Indiana Auto Capital

2011-09-14T09:05:00.001+02:00

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation and Conexus Indiana have launched an initiative with the goal of making the state the global leader in the automotive industry. The Indiana Automotive Council held its first meeting Wednesday with corporate leaders, university officials and lawmakers.

Indianapolis, Ind. -- More than one of every ten cars produced in the United States are assembled in Indiana, putting the ‘Crossroads of America’ on the map as an automaking powerhouse. But a new industry-led initiative sponsored by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) and Conexus Indiana has even higher ambitions – making the Hoosier State the recognized leader in automotive innovation, engineering and manufacturing.

The Indiana Automotive Council (IAC) held its first meeting Wednesday afternoon at the Governor’s Residence in Indianapolis, bringing together a broad cross-section of corporate leaders, university officials and policymakers.

“Indiana has a long tradition of leadership in auto manufacturing,” said Mitch Roob, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. “Through the IAC’s initiatives, we will garner input and involvement of industry leaders to ensure that our state continues to offer the most competitive environment for automotive design and production.”

Indiana’s automotive sector consists of more than 600 companies employing 120,000+ Hoosiers, with a collective economic output of nearly $9 billion (in 2009 – ranking second among states). The IAC will focus on strategic issues like building a skilled workforce, tapping into the innovation potential of industry-university-government partnerships, leveraging global connections and advancing pro-growth public policy.

The ultimate goal – making Indiana the global leader in the automotive industry.

"Indiana is a great place to do business, and that is why Cummins continues to have our roots here," said Tom Linebarger, incoming Chairman and CEO of Cummins Inc. "Many of our customers and suppliers probably agree with us, as they also have operations here. I think the Indiana Automotive Council is a great organization to bring corporations, government and universities together to promote innovation, develop a more skilled workforce, and potentially bring in other companies in the automotive industry. Cummins and other companies that are part of this initiative, along with the state government and universities, will both contribute to this collaboration and benefit from it."

In 2008, Conexus formed the Indiana Logistics Council, which brought together and solicited industry feedback on a strategic plan dedicated to strengthening the state’s supply chain dominance. Earlier this week, it launched the Indiana Aerospace and Defense Council to develop strategies for growing those sectors. The IAC will similarly explore issues and challenges specific to the automotive industry, utilizing the feedback to better position the state to take advantage of new business opportunities.

The Automotive Council will be executed by Conexus with major funding from the IEDC, and staffed by Project Director Matt Conrad, a partner with Indianapolis-based Krieg DeVault. Courtney Zaugg, formerly Director of International Economic Development with DevelopIndy, will serve as Director of Industry Research for the Council.

“Conexus was created to identify and address the longer-term strategic issues facing manufacturing and logistics in Indiana,” added Conexus President & CEO Steve Dwyer. “We’ve done that by listening and becoming a recognized voice for industry – we’ll serve the same purpose with the IAC.”

Attendees at the first IAC meeting included David Parish – Allison Transmission; Kevin Rahrig – AM General; Brian Harlow – Chrysler; Teresa Voors – Cummins; Jeff Owens – Delphi; Nicholas Kassanos – General Motors; Bob Nelson – Honda Manufacturing of Indiana; John Weber – Remy International; Tom Easterday – Subaru of Indiana; and Susan Elkington – Toyota Motor Manufacturing of Indiana. Indiana Secretary of Commerce Mitch Roob attended with senior staff from the IEDC, along with representatives from Indiana University, Purdue University, IUPUI, Rose-Human Institute of Technology, Trine University and the University of Notre Dame.

“It’s an exciting time to be engaged in Indiana’s auto industry,” noted Owens, President of Delphi Electronics and Safety. “We’ve established ourselves as a leader in vehicle electrification, the state is attracting record levels of foreign investment, and the domestic auto industry is making a significant comeback as well. An initiative like the IAC will help us capitalize on these trends, strengthening Indiana’s economy while making all of our companies more competitive.”

Conexus Indiana is the state’s advanced manufacturing and logistics initiative, dedicated to making Indiana a global leader in high-growth, high-tech industries. Conexus is focused on strategic priorities like workforce development, creating new industry partnerships and promoting Indiana’s competitive advantages. Learn more at www.ConexusIndiana.com.

Source: Conexus Indiana

Michigan City Manufacturer Expanding

2011-09-14T09:03:00.000+02:00

Air compressor manufacturer Sullair Corp. has announced plans to upgrade its headquarters in Michigan City and create up to 113 jobs by 2015. The company intends to invest up to $12.7 million in the project.

Michigan City, Ind. – Sullair Corporation, a business unit of Hamilton Sundstrand, a United Technologies company (NYSE: UTX), announced today that it will invest in its global headquarters here, creating up to 113 new jobs by 2015.

The company manufactures stationary and portable air compressors, compressed air treatment equipment, vacuum systems and air tools for the mining, construction, industrial, manufacturing and energy sectors.

Sullair expects to invest up to $12.7 million to purchase new equipment and make energy efficiency upgrades at its 410,000 square-foot LaPorte County facility.

“Sullair has called Indiana home for decades and we are pleased that they are continuing to invest in our state,” said Governor Mitch Daniels. “By maintaining one of the best business climates in the nation, Indiana is able to attract and retain companies like Sullair and we look forward to many more years of success from this global leader.”

Established in 1965, Sullair is headquartered in Michigan City with manufacturing facilities in China, Australia and the United States. The company has already begun hiring new production associates.

“We expect to see increasing demand in our developed markets as the worldwide economy shakes off the lingering effects of the recent recession,” said Henry Brooks, president of Sullair. “Investing in our U.S. sites will help us meet that demand while providing resources for technological research.”

Sullair’s parent company, United Technologies, employs thousands of Indiana workers at its operations in Huntington, Bloomington, Indianapolis and Michigan City. The company’s Employee Scholar Program has helped 1,175 Indiana employees, including 144 local Sullair associates, earn college degrees.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Sullair Corporation up to $800,000 in performance-based tax credits and $75,000 in training grants based on the company’s job creation plans. Michigan City is providing enterprise zone investment deductions through the Urban Enterprise Association and developing training programs.

“Sullair is one of Michigan City’s premier employers so we are proud they have selected their headquarters in our community in which to make this investment,” said Michigan City Mayor Chuck Oberlie.

Sullair’s announcement comes just a few days after Stant, a manufacturer of engineered vapor management, fuel delivery and thermal management systems and components, announced it will expand its Connersville headquarters. The company projects to invest $6.35 million and create up to 59 new jobs by 2013 as part of the project.

About Sullair Corporation
Sullair Corp. is recognized globally as a leading stationary air compressor, compressed air treatment equipment, vacuum system, portable compressor and air tool manufacturer. Sullair Corp. is a Hamilton Sundstrand Industrial business. Hamilton Sundstrand is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX).

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Mitch Roob serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Source: Indiana Economic Development Corporation

Inc. 500 List Features Indiana Companies

2011-08-23T18:31:00.000+02:00

Seven Indiana companies have made Inc. magazine's list of the 500 fastest-growing entrepreneurial businesses. Inc. has published that list every year since 1981. This year's rankings appear online and in the September issue. Indianapolis-based Slingshot SEO is one of the Hoosier companies on the list. The firm's new chief executive officer Jay Love and President Kevin Bailey recently joined Gerry Dick to talk about plans for the fast-growing tech company.

The Indiana companies on the list include:

58. Slingshot SEO (Indianapolis)
91. KPaul (Indianapolis)
140. Stonegate Mortgage (Fishers)
219. ChaCha (Carmel)
278. Livin' Lite Recreational Vehicles (Wakarusa)
355. iGoDigital (Indianapolis)
401. Exacq Technologies (Fishers)

Source: Inc. Magazine

Indy Tops Economic List

2011-07-26T17:26:00.000+02:00

Indianapolis tops a list from investopedia.com of cities with good jobs and cheap housing. The site says Indy scored high on every standard it used to compile the rankings.

The site says the median price for a home in Indianapolis is $120,000. It also cites easy commutes and a variety of living options as benefits.

The rankings also highlight an optimistic job outlook for Indianapolis, specifically citing the city's corporate headquarters and tech sector.

You can see the full list by clicking here.

Source: Investopedia.com

Manufacturing Makes 'Dramatic Recovery' in Indiana

2011-07-19T18:37:00.001+02:00

The newly released 2011 Indiana Manufacturing and Logistics Report Card contains largely good news for the state; authors credit the two industries for buoying the state's economic recovery and, looking forward, also predict a "record year" in manufacturing. However, not surprising to industry leaders, the state earned a "C" grade in human capital—only a slight improvement over last year's "C-."

"Overall, I'm pretty happy about what's happened in Indiana last year and is likely to continue over the next year or two," says Michael Hicks, director of Ball State University's Center for Business and Economic Research and author of the report. "This is a really important time for Indiana to be doing well in manufacturing, because there's so much slack in the economy and such pent up demand for new business expansion."

Indiana earned an "A" in both manufacturing industry health and logistics industry health, reflecting the size and growth of the sectors. Indiana ranks second among all states in per capita manufacturing jobs and ninth in logistics employment.

Hicks says the report card also highlights Indiana's "dramatic" recovery from the recession.
"Here in Indiana, [manufacturing employment] has grown by 4.6 percent—a remarkable difference for Indiana that has not been experienced nationwide," says Hicks.

Another notable factor is the state's continued strong performance in global reach; Hicks says Indiana exports more than it imports, sending manufactured goods to every continent except Antarctica. Listen

The state also made a significant improvement in logistics, climbing from a "B+" in 2010 to an "A" on this year's report. Leaders with the state's advanced manufacturing and logistics initiative Conexus Indiana credit the state's increased infrastructure investment relative to other states, attributable in large part to the Major Moves program.

"Major Moves allowed us to have money to invest in our infrastructure for roads, bridges and other items that were needed," says David Holt, vice president of operations and business development for Conexus. "And this occurred while other states started cutting their infrastructure budgets." Listen

Despite Indiana earning its highest logistics score in the report's four-year history, Holt says there's "still room for innovation;" Conexus is working to enhance intermodal activity along Indiana's railways and increase the use of Indiana—rather than Chicago—airports for cargo. Listen

Industry leaders say the most concerning aspect of the report card is the "C" in human capital. Citing human capital as the most important factor for Indiana's long-term growth, Hicks says it's a category that must improve. However, he cautions it could require many years to see significant positive change.

"I think businesses are more worried about moving in the right direction than already being there," says Hicks. "The steps we take today—short term improvements in human capital—are going to lay the foundation for a healthy business climate in terms of the availability of workers in the decades to come." Listen

Holt says Conexus is working with industry and educational partners to address work force needs with its "Dream It. Do It." initiative, which markets advanced manufacturing and logistics careers to young people. Listen

Hicks believes improving human capital will also boost a second low score on Indiana's report card; a "C-" in benefit costs.

"Higher health care costs are affected by human capital," says Hicks. "The things that drive up your health care costs—obesity and smoking—are very closely linked to high school graduation rates. So, if we fix human capital, our other problems tend to dwindle away to insignificance."

Noting Indiana's "A" in overall tax climate—the only Midwest state to earn the score—Hicks believes Indiana is poised for an upcoming "record year," leading to an even better report card in 2012.

"Indiana is a big exporter—particularly of those things that our foreign trading partners are interested in buying," says Hicks. "It just really looks like a very strong year for us. My models, and those of others, all predict this to be a record manufacturing year—not only for Indiana, but for the country as a whole."

http://www.insideindianabusiness.com/advanced-manufacturing.asp?ID=320&Detail=True

Indiana Cities Make Forbes List

2011-07-11T18:40:00.000+02:00

Two Indiana cities are ranked on Forbes.com's list of the best small places for business and careers. The rankings are based on categories including cost of doing business, education and projected job growth.

Forbes ranks Lafayette at number 11 and Bloomington at number 16. Manhattan, Kansas tops the list.

The categories factored into the rankings include cost of doing business, projected economic growth, educational attainment, income growth, projected job growth, and net migration.

Source: Forbes.com

Economic Group to Establish Loan Program

2011-07-11T18:38:00.000+02:00

The New Castle-Henry County Economic Development Corporation has received federal funding to help new business ventures get started. The nearly $68,000 Rural Business Enterprise Grant will be used to create an Enterprise Loan Fund Program. The grant is one of several recently awarded in Indiana by USDA Rural Development.

The US Department of Agriculture Rural Development has awarded the New Castle-Henry County Economic Development Corporation (NCHCEDC) a Rural Business Enterprise Grant in the amount of $67,500. The NCHCEDC will provide a ten percent (10%) project match.

USDA Rural Development Area Director Anthony Kirkland said, “With these funds, the New Castle-Henry County Economic Development Corporation will be able to assist numerous small businesses who, in the past, have had very few options for alternatives to traditional bank financing.”

This latest grant is one of several recently awarded in Indiana by USDA Rural Development. “These grants are in keeping with the mission of USDA Rural Development which is to provide equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth in homeownership, business development, and critical community and technology infrastructure,” said Kirkland.

Bob Grewe, President of the NCHCEDC, noted that the grant funds will provide the financial resources to kick start the community’s Enterprise Loan Fund (ELF) Program. He further noted that the New Castle-Henry County community is seeing an uptick in new business startups and that the grant award could play a significant role in helping new business ventures get started.

The ELF will provide gap financing to business development projects that cannot secure adequate conventional financing. Efforts will begin soon to advertise the availability of these new business development resources. Grewe suggests that the strong community banking presence in Henry County will provide an immediate source for reaching local entrepreneurs. The local banking community has been a tremendous asset to our economic development efforts from supporting our economic development organization to helping finance development projects. Their involvement with supporting the Enterprise Loan Fund will be essential to the success of the program.

Source: New Castle-Henry County Economic Development Corporation

Indy Unveils New Job Numbers

2011-07-11T18:31:00.000+02:00

The city of Indianapolis says it has secured more than 2,600 new job commitments through the first half of 2011. Develop Indy says the average wage of those planned jobs is nearly $25 per hour, well above the state average.

Indianapolis, Ind. -- The City of Indianapolis has secured commitments from 33 companies to relocate or expand in Indianapolis/Marion County through the first half of 2011. Together these companies have committed to creating 2,661 new jobs and investing $553 million over the next few years.

"Once again this year our record of securing new job and investment commitments from the private sector is a true testament that Indianapolis remains a great place to do business and is well positioned for the future," said Mayor Greg Ballard. "Our team remains focused on doing everything it can to encourage and support business growth in our city."

In 2010, the city secured a record 8,700 new job commitments from 72 companies and planned capital investment of more than $934 million, which was the best year of the past decade for both new job and investment commitments.

"Companies are still very willing to commit to Indianapolis," said Scott Miller, CEO of Develop Indy. "We have worked with small businesses and large corporations from various industries and their reasons for choosing our city remain consistent. It comes down to our stable economic environment, low costs, skilled workforce, and outstanding quality of life. Indianapolis continues to have a lot of offer."

The average wage of the new jobs committed to in 2011 is $24.99 per hour as compared to the state's average hourly wage of $18.71. These positions are expected to be filled over the next few years.
Genesis Casket Company, Advion BioSciences, Pure Power Technologies, Rolls-Royce, Allison, Slingshot SEO, and Streetlinks are among this year's list of new and growing companies. (Complete project list attached.) Since 2008, Develop Indy has secured commitments from companies to create more than 18,500 new jobs and invest more than $1.9 billion in Indianapolis.

About Develop Indy

Develop Indy is Marion County's local economic development organization. Develop Indy is dedicated to attracting new businesses, retaining and expanding existing businesses and serving as a catalyst for capital investment and quality job growth in Indianapolis/Marion County. Formed in 2007, Develop Indy is led by CEO Scott Miller and a nine-member board of directors appointed by Mayor Greg Ballard.

Soruce: Develop Indy

Indiana Moves Up on CNBC List

2011-07-11T18:26:00.000+02:00

CNBC has released its 2011 America's Top States For Business list, and Indiana is moving up. The state ranks in the top ten in two categories, including the cost of doing business and business friendliness.

Indiana ranks 15 overall on the list, up from number 21 in 2010.

CNBC says the categories were weighted based on how often they are used in state marketing materials, meaning the study aims to rank the states based on the criteria they use to sell themselves. Virginia topped the list. Rhode Island came in at the bottom.

Here is how Indiana ranked in all ten categories:

Cost of Business: 8
Workforce: 41
Quality of Life: 40
Economy: 30
Infrastructure and Transportation: 21
Technology and Innovation: 22
Education: 12
Business Friendliness: 10
Access to Capital: 14
Cost of Living: 15

Source: CNBC

State: Strong Mid-Year For Economic Developments

2011-06-27T10:27:00.000+02:00

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation reports over the last six months, it has worked with 123 companies that plan to expand or establish operations in the state. The IEDC says the businesses anticipate investing $1.76 billion and creating more than 11,000 jobs. Business consolidations from Illinois have been also been trend this year with 12 companies planning to move operations to Indiana.

INDIANAPOLIS- At the midway point in the year, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation announced that it has worked with 123 companies that have made decisions to expand or establish new business operations in Indiana for a total of more than 11,000 projected new jobs. This compares with 200 decisions by companies to locate a projected 23,000 new jobs in the state, announced at year-end last year.

The new positions, which companies expect to hire over the next five years, pay an expected average hourly wage of $22.88, above the state's current hourly wage of $18.71. Since January, the more than 120 companies anticipate investing $1.76 billion in their Indiana operations in the coming years. Meanwhile, the average amount of state performance-based tax incentives offered to companies on a per job basis is $8,622, below the 2010 year-end amount of $9,981.

Earlier today, the IEDC announced that Fronius USA, LLC, the fourth-largest solar inverter producer in the world, is the 1,000th new business establishment or expansion the agency has completed since its inception in 2005. Since Fronius' relocation was finalized, the state has completed an additional 125 competitive projects for a total of 1,125 transactions with growing companies. Nearly two-thirds of all projects involve expansions of existing Indiana businesses.

Business consolidations from Illinois have been a trend this year with 12 companies so far planning to move all or a portion of their operations to Indiana. Many of those companies are still completing final transition plans and will be announced in the coming months but a few companies to recently announce moves to the Hoosier State include Berry Plastics, NetShape Technologies and American College of Education.

"Indiana continues to be noticed for its low-tax, fiscally sound environment and with our corporate tax rate on its way down, we are further distinguished from neighboring states and global competitors as a location that is welcoming to new business investment," said Mitch Roob, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.

The IEDC's mid-year update adds to some recent good news about Indiana's economy. According to a report released this month by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Indiana's Gross Domestic Product grew at a rate of 4.6 percent in 2010, the third fastest growth in the nation and more than 50 percent faster than the national average. Earlier this month, Indiana's employment outlook for the third quarter of 2011 was rated third best in the nation by ManpowerGroup.

Indiana has also been recognized as a top location for business by business leaders and site selection consultants in two recent surveys. In May, Chief Executive magazine ranked Indiana the best place to do business in the Midwest and the sixth best nationwide, up from 16th place in 2010, in its seventh annual "Best & Worst States" survey. Also in May, Area Development magazine awarded the Indiana Economic Development Corporation with a 2011 Gold Shovel award, the publication's top honor for economic development efforts.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Mitch Roob serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov .

Source: Indiana Economic Development Corporation

Indiana Lands 500 Solar Jobs

2011-06-27T10:24:00.000+02:00

Economic development officials say a decision by a solar company to move its North American headquarters from Michigan to Portage amounts to the biggest jobs announcement so far this year in northwest Indiana. Fronius USA LLC says it plans to create up to 512 jobs in Portage by 2016. The company produces solar inverters. The deal marks the 1,000th new business establishment or expansion completed by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation since it launched in 2005.

PORTAGE, Ind. – Governor Mitch Daniels joined executives from Fronius USA, LLC, the fourth-largest solar inverter producer in the world, today to announce that the company will relocate its North American headquarters here from Michigan, creating up to 512 new jobs by 2016.

The Austrian company will invest more than $26.64 million to lease and equip 400,000 square-feet of space in Portage to assemble and manufacture its products for the North American market. Through this new facility, Fronius plans to develop its current manufacturing capacities to meet the global demand for solar electronic inverters and welding technology.

“We’re excited to bring new jobs anywhere in Indiana, but we’re particularly excited Fronius has chosen northwest Indiana,” said Daniels. “Fronius is well-established, fast-growing and at the top of their field, exactly the kind of company we’ve rebuilt the Indiana business climate to attract.”

Fronius’ relocation marks the 1,000th new business establishment or expansion the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, the state’s lead economic development agency, has completed since its inception in 2005.

Established in Brighton, Mich. in 2002, the family-owned, international company has been engaged in solar electronics since 1992, in particular the development and production of photovoltaic inverters for both grid-connected and independent power supplies.

“Indiana has a great business climate with a perfect infrastructure for us, including a good network of suppliers and skilled employees,” said Wolfgang Niedrist, managing director for U.S. sales at Fronius. “We can’t wait to get to know the people of Indiana even better as we move into the community.”

Fronius, which currently employs more than 4,200 employees globally, has already started hiring human resource and finance associates for its Portage headquarters. It plans to expand its procurement and production workforce to coincide with the completion of facility improvements next summer.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Fronius USA, LLC up to $4.25 million in performance-based tax credits based on the company's job creation plans. The city of Portage will consider additional property tax abatement at the request of the Portage Redevelopment Commission and the Portage Economic Development Corporation.

“We have worked closely with IEDC and the company representatives for many months through the recruitment process. It has been this partnership and open communication that has proven successful in having Fronius choose to locate in the city of Portage,” said Portage Mayor Olga Velazquez. “We are extremely pleased to share the good news with our residents. Fronius will bring an entirely new high tech industry to Portage and northwestern Indiana. The skilled jobs created will keep our young people near home.”

Fronius’ establishment in Indiana comes on the heels of two recent announcements from companies also relocating to Indiana from Michigan. Earlier this month, Spartan Motors, Inc. announced its plans to relocate parts of its operations to Wakarusa from Michigan, creating up to 60 jobs by the second half of 2012. In May, Molded Foam, LLC announced its acquisition of a Michigan firm and intentions to relocate operations to Indiana, creating up to 45 jobs in Elkhart County by 2014.

About Fronius USA, LLC

Fronius USA, LLC is a world technology leader in the fields of battery charging systems, welding technology and solar electronics. Founded in 1945, Fronius has production sites in Austria, Canada, the Czech Republic and Ukraine, plus 13 sales subsidiaries all over the world. This Austrian company owns 737 active patents and generated a total turnover of 499 million Euros in financial year 2010. For more information, visit www.fronius.com.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Mitch Roob serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Source: Indiana Economic Development Corporation

State to Unveil New Unemployment Numbers

2011-06-20T17:44:00.000+02:00

The Indiana Department of Workforce Development will release the state's May unemployment rate this morning. The rate dipped to 8.2 percent in April, below the national average of 9 percent and the lowest among neighboring states.

Some of those states have already released May jobless figures.

The unemployment rate in Michigan inched up 0.1 percentage points to 10.3 percent.

The Illinois May unemployment rate is 8.9 percent, up from 8.7 percent the previous month.

In Kentucky, it fell to 9.8 percent, the first time the rate has been below double digits in more than two years.

Ohio will release its new unemployment numbers Friday.

Source: Inside INdiana Business, Indiana Department of Workforce Development, State of Michigan, State of Ohio, State of Illinois, State of Kentucky

Manufacturing Poised For Record Year

2011-06-15T17:32:00.000+02:00

An analysis of the strengths, challenges and opportunities for the state's manufacturing and logistics sectors is forecasting a "record year" for Indiana manufacturing. The 2011 Indiana Manufacturing and Logistics Report Card gives the state top marks in manufacturing, logistics and tax climate, but a lower grade for human capital. In a Studio(i) interview, Ball State University Economist Mike Hicks says companies are continuing to have problems finding skilled workers.

(INDIANAPOLIS, Ind., June 10, 2011) Conexus Indiana and the Ball State Center for Business and Economic Research today released the 2011 Indiana Manufacturing and Logistics Report Card, an annual “grading” of the strengths, challenges and opportunities impacting the two industries that collectively employ nearly one of every four Hoosiers.

This year’s Report Card confirms that Indiana’s strengths in ‘making and moving’ products have buoyed the state’s economic recovery. Indiana continues to rank among the top tier of states in manufacturing and logistics employment, and Ball State economists predict that the next 12 months will be a “record year” for manufacturing in the state. Indiana's manufacturing employment has risen by 4.6% since the end of the recession.

The Report Card gives Indiana overall ‘A’ grades in Manufacturing Industry (ranking first among states in share of the economy focused on manufacturing), Logistics Industry, Global Position (measuring manufacturing exports and foreign investment) and Tax Climate. The educational attainment of the Hoosier workforce, however, continues to be a long-term concern.

The state’s ‘C’ grade in Human Capital is a step forward from last year’s C-, based on strong enrollment in community college programs and improved high school graduation rates. But Indiana’s adult population continues to rank among the least-educated in the nation, leaving Hoosier manufacturing and logistics firms struggling to find qualified applicants for jobs that demand increasingly advanced skills.

“This year’s Report Card reiterates that Indiana must do a better preparing the next generation of manufacturing and logistics workers,” said Steve Dwyer, Conexus Indiana’s President & CEO. “Today’s jobs aren’t about standing at assembly lines – they’re about running computerized equipment and robotic systems, about teamwork and problem-solving.

“We have to give introduce young Hoosiers to these careers early on, and give them opportunities to acquire the skills they need at all levels to create the pipeline of talent that manufacturing and logistics employers need to grow.”

As the state’s manufacturing and logistics initiative, Conexus Indiana is working with its corporate and academic partners to develop industry-endorsed educational programs, and marketing the careers to young people through its ‘Dream It. Do It.’ marketing campaign (at www.DreamItDoItIndiana.com).

The state’s ‘A’ in Logistics Industry was a first in the four-year history of the Report Card, up from a B+ in 2010 based on stronger infrastructure investment relative to other states. Conexus Indiana has prioritized and advocated for critical investments through its Indiana Logistics Council, an industry forum that gathers input from logistics employers across the state.

“Indiana starts with a competitive advantage in logistics based on our position as the ‘Crossroads of America,’” Dwyer noted. “But we have to keep making smart choices to keep our edge.”

Other key findings from the 2011 Indiana Manufacturing and Logistics Report Card:
• Indiana ranks second among states in per capita manufacturing employment and 9th in logistics employment;
• Indiana ranks first in per capita income derived from foreign-owned manufacturing operations, 9th in manufacturing exports per capita and 13th in export growth;
• Indiana scored a ‘C-’ in Benefit Costs, based on poor rankings in healthcare and fringe benefit costs;
• Indiana generally ranks in the top tier of states in terms of tax rates – and the recently-enacted corporate income tax cut should bolster the state’s current ranking of 21st in corporate taxes;
• The state’s ‘C’ grade in Productivity and Innovation represents a mixed-bag of indicators, with strong rankings in manufacturing productivity (9th) and R&D investment (15th) offset by poor performance in patents-per-capita (32nd);
• With rankings of 31st in percentage of the workforce with a high school diploma or greater, 42nd in college-educated workers, and 26th in younger workers with a two-year degree, human capital remains Indiana’s biggest long-term hurdle to future manufacturing and logistics growth.

“This year’s analysis shows that Indiana is clearly still a manufacturing state that is taking advantage of its central location and pro-growth business climate,” said Michael Hicks, Director of the Ball State Center for Business and Economic Research and primary author of the Report Card. “But I’d echo the warning that every investor has heard – ‘Past performance is no guarantee of future results.’ Policymakers need to focus on areas like workforce development and healthcare costs to maintain our competitiveness.”

Launched by the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership, Conexus Indiana is the state’s advanced manufacturing and logistics initiative, dedicated to making Indiana a global leader. Conexus is focused on strategic priorities like workforce development, creating new industry partnerships and promoting Indiana’s advantages in manufacturing and logistics. Learn more at www.ConexusIndiana.com.

Source: Conexus

Agency Affirms Indiana Credit Rating

2011-06-15T17:27:00.000+02:00

There is more good economic news for the state. Standard and Poor's has affirmed Indiana's 'AAA' credit rating. The rating service cites the state's diversifying economic base, solid reserves and low overall debt levels.

The announcement follows word this week that Indiana's economy grew 4.6 percent in 2010.

The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis says that is well above the national rate of 2.6 percent and trails only North Dakota and New York state.

Source: Inside INdiana Business, Office of the Indiana Governor

Indiana's Economy 'Zooming' Back

2011-06-15T17:25:00.000+02:00

The Hoosier economy appears to be among the strongest of all states as the nation continues to recover from the recession. Figures from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis show Indiana's Gross Domestic Product grew 4.6 percent in 2010, compared to the national rate of 2.6 percent. That's the third highest growth rate in the U.S., behind North Dakota and New York. In a Studio(i) conversation, Ball State Economist Mike Hicks says the robust recovery in Indiana is impressive.

Indiana's 2010 GDP growth outpaced all neighboring states, including Michigan, which is regarding the new figures as positive news. The Detroit Free Press reports Michigan's 2.9 percent increase during the past year is being consiered by economists as a clear sign the state's deep recession is over.

Even though Indiana's economic expansion is among the national pacesetters, there is still work to do as the recovery takes hold.

The state's unemployment rate is hovering around 8 percent, although it has dropped below the national mark for the first time since June 2003.

The May unemployment numbers are due June 17.

Source: Inside INdiana Business, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Detroit Free Press

Indiana Direct Financial Incentives 2011

2011-05-30T09:38:00.001+02:00

Indiana’s economic development, finance and tax organizations provide a range of incentive programs to initiate new business and commercial investment. Specific programs include economic development bonds, infrastructure financing, and customized training.

Economic development bonds:
Cities and counties provide tax-exempt financing for businesses through economic development commissions. Interest rates and terms are negotiated at the local level. Bonds are issued through loan, lease or sale agreements. The bonds can finance facilities for manufacturing and certain other projects.

Infrastructure financing:
The state-funded Industrial Development Grant fund supplements the funding of local units of government to pay for offsite infrastructure projects in support of new business development. The grant award is based on new job created and is not to exceed 50 percent of any project.

Customized training:
Businesses can apply for reimbursement grants to subsidize the cost of training and retraining employees through the state's Skills Enhancement Fund grants program. This program covers up to half of eligible training costs, which include instructor wages, tuition, and training materials. The maximum award for retraining is $200,000.

http://www.areadevelopment.com/stateResources/indiana/indiana-direct-financial-incentives2011-9880.shtml

Another Company Receives Foreign Trade Zone Status

2011-05-30T09:36:00.001+02:00

SEKO Indianapolis says it has received approval to operate under Foreign Trade Zone status. The third-party logistics provider says it's using the designation in its retail goods warehouse and hopes to incorporate the process in its pharmaceutical facility.

ITASCA, Ill-SEKO, a global provider of supply-chain solutions, including comprehensive transportation, logistics and IT solutions - is excited to announce that its Indianapolis, IN office recently received approval from U.S. Customs and Border Protection to operate under Foreign Trade Zone status. SEKO Indianapolis activated FTZ services in the first quarter of this year, enabling its customers to defer duty on raw goods until they are sold or removed from the FTZ period. Additionally, customs clearance and service fees are reduced, and any goods imported into an FTZ can be transferred, duty free, to other FTZfs in the US, Canada and Mexico, until the goods are consumed or re-exported.

gMoving forward with FTZ activation is an enhancement to our overall service offerings and will allow our customersf goods to flow to market more quickly, creating significant cost savings potential.h
.SEKO Indianapolis began the application process in the third quarter of 2010 after a large consumer electronics customer requested FTZ services.

John Sell, SEKOfs Indianapolis Strategic Partner states, gMoving forward with FTZ activation is an enhancement to our overall service offerings and will allow our customersf goods to flow to market more quickly, creating significant cost savings potential.h

Initial activation includes 375,000 square feet of retail goods warehouse space. SEKO Indianapolis also included in the application process their 200,000 square foot pharmaceutical facility. Being able to import pharmaceuticals directly into an FTZ ensures the quality of the drug supply chain by reducing time spent in transit. SEKO Indianapolis plans to activate FTZ services in their pharmaceutical warehouse by Q1 of 2012.

"This is an important initiative for SEKO," states SEKO President and CEO, Bill Wascher. "We anticipate that the approval for foreign trade zone status will allow us to be more competitive in the global market."

SEKO continues to expand in direct response to increased customer requirements for integrated logistics services across the globe. The companyfs Strategic Partner business model is based on creating a collaborative network of independent contractors that have local business, cultural and regional expertise, and applying to their businesses the best practices of SEKOfs organizational structure, IT systems and overall resources. The result provides clients with a seamless, global logistics network.

About SEKO

Founded in 1976, SEKO is a global, third-party logistics provider with more than 50 offices in the United States and more than 50 offices in 40+ countries worldwide. It offers a full range of supply-chain solutions including domestic and global air, ocean, and ground transportation, freight forwarding, customs brokerage, trans]border distribution, U.S. home delivery, and DC bypass shipping. SEKOfs IT solutions offer a broad range of real]time, Web]based shipment management and data exchange tools for a high degree of supply-chain visibly. To learn more about SEKO visit us at www.sekologistics.com.

Source: SEKO

Big Project Takes Off in Northwest Indiana

2011-05-30T09:29:00.000+02:00

After years of talks and delays, crews will break ground today on the $153 million expansion of Gary/Chicago International Airport. The project includes a major runway expansion. Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority Executive Director Bill Hanna says the work better positions the facility as Chicago’s third major airport.

The expansion will also include railroad bridges, new railroad routes and railroad demolition lines. Hanna says the project solidifies a partnership between the Gary Chicago International Airport Authority Board and the RDA. He says the two groups hired an airport consulting firm to research what niche the airport could fill for the market. That firm determined that charter services and general aviation are the area’s biggest needs.

Source: Inside INdiana Business

State Unemployment Rate Continues Trend

2011-05-23T10:23:00.001+02:00

Indiana's unemployment rate for April is 8.2 percent. The state Department of Workforce Development says that is down 0.3 percent from the previous month. The department says it is the third month in a row the rate has been lower than all neighboring states.

INDIANAPOLIS - Indiana's preliminary seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate dropped 0.3 percent, to 8.2 percent in April. Indiana's rate is below the national average of 9 percent and below that of all neighboring states for the third month in a row. Private sector employment decreased by 2,700 in April.

"Indiana is 0.8 percent below the national rate for the first time since June 2003," said Mark W. Everson, Commissioner of the Department of Workforce Development. "The state's rate has steadily decreased over the past year."

Employment by Sector
Sectors showing significant employment gains in April include: Private Education and Health Services (1,700) and Leisure and Hospitality (1,000). The Professional and Business Services
(-2,900) and Manufacturing (-1,700) sectors showed significant decline. Total non-farm employment decreased (-2,500) in April.
Source: Indiana Department of Workforce Development

Kentucky, Michigan Companies Moving to Indiana

2011-05-23T10:20:00.001+02:00

Two companies from neighboring states are relocating to Indiana. Fortis Security Products has announced it will move its corporate headquarters from Kentucky to Dearborn County. Meantime, Molded Foam LLC also plans to acquire a Michigan firm and relocate its operations to Elkhart County. The two moves could bring about 60 new jobs to Indiana by 2014.

GREENDALE, Ind. – Fortis Security Products announced today that it will relocate its corporate headquarters from Kentucky to Indiana, creating up to 15 new jobs by 2013.

The seven-year-old company has outgrown its current location in Hebron, Ky. and plans to invest $5.8 million to build a new facility for its headquarters with manufacturing and warehousing operations in Dearborn County, Indiana. Fortis Security Products manufactures vaults, safes, drive-up systems and interior furnishings for banks and financial centers.

“Recruiting a headquarters from another state is no small task so we are grateful to the many parties at the state and local levels that provided Fortis Security Products the confidence to decide that Indiana is the best state to grow a business,” said Mitch Roob, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.

The company plans to break ground on the new facility in the next two weeks and anticipates being operational by the end of the year.

“With improving economic conditions we wanted to be prepared for additional demand and looked to expand. While relocating a manufacturing facility is a huge undertaking, Mayor Doug Hendrick, Greendale Redevelopment Commission, Lawrenceburg Regional Grants Program, Indiana Economic Development Corporation, Dearborn Economic Development Corporation and the Lawrenceburg Conservancy District all worked together to make this possible,” said Fortis Security Products spokesperson, Dallas Farley.

Maxwell Construction based in Greendale, Indiana was selected as the contractor for the project.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Fortis Security Products up to $80,000 in performance-based tax credits and $18,000 in training grants based on the company’s job creation plans. Greendale and Lawrenceburg also offered incentives to attract the company’s relocation.

“This is good news for Dearborn County,” said Michael Rozow, Jr., executive director of the Dearborn County Economic Development Initiative and Chamber president. “We believe our area is perfect for companies like Fortis. They wanted to expand, they wanted to remain in the Tri-State, they wanted good access to an interstate highway, and they wanted to reduce their tax and workers’ compensation rates. That’s us.”

Since the creation of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation in 2005, more than 100 companies have located or expanded their headquarters in the Hoosier State, bringing an anticipated more than 19,000 new headquarters jobs and more than $1.5 billion dollars in new capital investment.

Source: Indiana Economic Development Corporation

BRISTOL, Ind. (May 19, 2011) - Molded Foam, LLC, a manufacturer of foam seating and cushioning materials, announced today that it will acquire a Holland, Mich. firm and relocate its operations to Indiana, creating up to 45 new jobs by 2014.

The company, which provides polyurethane foam cushioning to customers in the defense, medical, office-furniture and transportation industries, among others, plans to invest more than $3.8 million to purchase and equip additional space to house the new operations which will include a new molded production line.

"We take this relocation project as an encouraging sign that we're taking the right steps to make Indiana the most attractive place to run a business," said Mitch Roob, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. "Job growth is great news for any community, but it's especially gratifying when new investment happens in a smaller community like Bristol."

Molded Foam, LLC, plans to begin hiring additional manufacturing and supervisory associates early this summer as the new production line becomes operational.

"We have been fortunate to improve our position in the market during challenging economic times and believe additional investment at this time will further advance our business for many years to come. It was our preference to bring our new production facility to Bristol if it made economic sense and with the help of the state and the Economic Development Corporation of Elkhart County we will be able to do so," said Tim Dugle, president of Molded Foam LLC. "It is our objective to grow our business, to remain viable and to continue to provide additional jobs for people in our immediate area. We appreciate the efforts of Governor Daniels to make Indiana a business friendly state. Everybody wins when Indiana's government supports the private sector to strengthen communities."

Formerly Goshen Cushion, Inc.'s recreational vehicle and conversion van seating division, Molded Foam, LLC, has been independently owned for more than 15 years. The company has more than 30 years of manufacturing experience in Elkhart County.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Molded Foam, LLC up to $300,000 in performance-based tax credits based on the company's job creation plans. The town of Bristol has offered additional property tax phase-in at the request of the Economic Development Corporation of Elkhart County.

Molded Foam, LLC's announced expansion of its Bristol operations comes just more than two months after Global Parts Network announced it would invest more than $3.2 million to lease and equip 73,000 square feet of space for production and distribution of heavy duty truck parts in nearby South Bend. The company projects to create up to 30 new jobs by 2014 as part of the project.

Source: Indiana Economic Development Corporation

State to Release Unemployment Rate

2011-05-23T10:18:00.000+02:00

The state's April employment report is due Friday. The Indiana Department of Workforce Development says the March unemployment rate was 8.5 percent, down 0.3 percent from the previous month.

The department says the state added 9,700 jobs in March.

Some neighboring states have already released April employment figures.

The unemployment rate in Michigan is 10.2 percent, down slightly from the previous month.

Illinois' rate is also down slightly. It's at 8.7 percent.

The rates for Ohio and Kentucky have not been announced.

Source: Indiana Department of Workforce Development, Inside INdiana Business

Indiana Ranks High in Global Trade Study

2011-05-23T10:10:00.000+02:00

A new study from Ball State University shows Indiana ranks fifth in the nation when it comes to adapting to an evolving world trade market. The university's Center for Business and Economic Research says Indiana has invested in key industries over the past decade that produce items sought by members of a global organization designed to stimulate economic progress and world trade.

MUNCIE, Ind. - Goods and materials produced by Indiana firms are in high demand as world trade markets continually evolve. The state places the state fifth in a new ranking of international exporting by Ball State University.

"U.S. Export Adaptability at the State Level by Ball State's Center for Business and Economic Research (CBER) finds that Indiana trails only Nevada, West Virginia, Delaware and Utah.

All five states produce large amounts of machinery, pharmaceutical, chemical, electrical and medical items, goods sought by members of OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development), a 34-member international group founded in 1961 to stimulate economic progress and world trade. Most member countries are in Europe but Mexico, Japan and Australia also are represented.

"Like the other states in the top five, Indiana has invested in these key industries over the past few decades," said Nalitra Thaiprasert , CBER's research economist who led the project. "Hoosiers are currently producing what the world is demanding, which bodes well for our economy in the coming years."

The study examines the adaptability of individual state exports to the changing demand of OECD countries during 1999-2009. Total OECD import peaked in 2008 at $10.4 trillion and dropped to $7.8 trillion in 2009 because of the world economic recession.

Thaiprasert indicated that trade is rapidly changing on world markets as products ordered by a trading partner a decade ago might not be the same as products wanted today. This characteristic of international trade raises the issue of the need for exporting states and entire nations to become more flexible in adapting their exports to the ever-changing pattern of international demand.

"It is in each state's best interest to shift its production and exports away from the declining markets, including wood, paper, textiles, and footwear/headgear, and into the growing ones - chemical, machinery and electrical products - for the long-term welfare gain from international specialization," she said. "As the domestic economy emerges slowly from a recession, U.S. companies are recognizing that expansion lies in selling to foreign markets, and U.S. officials are counting on exports to accelerate the recovery."

Thaiprasert points out that the Obama administration has a goal of doubling U.S. exports by 2014 in order to generate stronger economic growth at home.

Source: Ball State University

Big Carmel Project Clears Hurdle

2011-05-23T10:05:00.001+02:00

The Carmel Plan Commission has approved a proposal for a 63-acre business development on the city's westside. Developers say “The Bridges” would include retail, office and restaurant space. The proposal goes to the Carmel City Council next month.

The commission approved the $100 million project by a vote of 8-2. People living in the area will be able to give their opinions on the project at the city council meeting in June. Some have expressed concern about the development lowering property values and causing traffic problems. Developers say they have done extensive studies and do not see traffic or dropping property values becoming a problem. They hope to break ground some time next year.

Source: Carmel Plan Commission

Kendallville Company Doubling Work Force

2011-05-18T15:42:00.000+02:00

Reliable Production Machining and Welding is adding more than 40 workers at its Kendallville facility. Company President Chuck Drerup says a steady increase in orders is leading to the hiring. Reliable PMW makes axles, hubs and brake assemblies for RVs and industrial vehicles.

A steady increase in production since Spring 2010 has required Reliable Production Machining and Welding (www.ReliablePMW.com), one of the nation’s largest independent manufacturers of axles, hubs, and brake assemblies, to add over 40 new employees at its primary production facilities in Kendallville, Indiana.

"Our primary market segments include lawncare equipment manufacturers, R.V. and marine, agricultural equipment manufacturers, large construction equipment manufacturers, and the retail aftermarket. We’ve seen a steady increase in order volumes from all of these segments which is an indication of a positive turnaround from a few years ago," stated Reliable PMW President, Chuck Drerup.

Reliable PMW upgraded several key pieces of computerized equipment in its production machining and welding plants. Precision equipment like robotic welders and CNC Lathes have increased Reliable’s ability to service customers more efficiently and broadened the scope of capabilities overall.

Vice President and General Manager, Greg Salway, was promoted to Chief Operating Officer on April 15 in a response to the increase of responsibilities added with the trend of growth since early 2010.

"Our business has always been cyclical, but the consistent growth the past year has been very encouraging and required us to add a lot of production staff in recent months," said Greg. "We are seeing an increase in customers needing precision parts made on our CNC equipment, and these are the higher paying positions we’ve been filling. We are still in need of several experienced operators and hoping to continue receiving applications from qualified applicants," he added.

Reliable PMW underwent a management led buyout in July 2010 which has been a catalyst to the growth. A recent decision made among senior management was to expand its marketing and sales effort into a rapidly growing segment of aftermarket retail products.

Marketing Consulting Firm, Day 6 Design, also of Kendallville, has been working closely with Reliable PMW management to develop a 3 to 5 year plan to double its Retail Aftermarket sales volume.

"Not surprising, several companies are relying heavily upon online sales to reach retail consumers with their products," stated Day 6 Design owner, Patrick Hess. "When freight friendly parts can be purchased easily online, retail buyers continue to use the ease of their computers at home and work to order them."

The plan to increase the Retail Aftermarket sales will include the addition of a new division of Reliable PMW dedicated wholly to adding, servicing, and maintaining new sales channels in both brick-and-mortar stores and online.

Mayor Suzanne Handshoe recently toured Reliable PMW facilities since the 2010 management led buyout and as a follow up to review the impacts of a tax abatement granted by City Council to Reliable PMW for its addition of over $400,000 of production equipment last year.

"It’s exciting to see one of our largest employers in Kendallville continuing to invest in their business with results like we’re seeing. Adding jobs in our present economic climate is an amazing statistic," stated Mayor Handshoe. "We are very industry and commercial business friendly and any way we can assist business which results in positive growth and jobs, we are going to do what it takes," she added.

Businesses requesting tax abatements must present their applications to the EDAC (Economic Development Advisory Council) for review. Items like new job creation, potential for longer term presence in the community, and sustaining existing workforce are among the criteria carefully considered before an applicant is approved through Kendallville City Council.

Source: Reliable Production, Machining and Welding

Indiana Businesses Make Inner City List

2011-05-18T15:41:00.001+02:00

Three Indiana companies are on Fortune Magazine's 2011 Inner City 100 list of the fastest-growing inner city companies in the U.S. A business consultant firm, a consumer reviewing network and a medical insurer are included in this year's rankings.

Prarie Quest ranked 12th on this year’s list. Angie’s List was ranked 26th and International Medical Group was 84th.

The Inner City 100 list provides data on the fastest growing inner-city businesses in the United States. One third of the companies on this year's list are minority-owned. 24 percent of the companies are women-owned.

Source: Prairie Quest and Fortune Magazine

Indiana Makes Top 10 Techiest Colleges List

2011-05-18T15:39:00.000+02:00

Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology is on the list of the Top 10 Techiest Colleges in the U.S. BestCollegesOnline.com ranks the Terre Haute school number six for having one of the best for undergraduate and master's degree-level techies. Massachusetts Institute of Technology took the top spot.

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. -- With technology proudly in its name, it shouldn’t be surprising that Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology would be ranked sixth among the Top 10 Techiest Colleges in the U.S., according to BestCollegesOnline.com. The ranking featured the following colleges:

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

2. California Institute of Technology

3. Stanford University

4. Columbia University

5. University of California-Berekely

6. ROSE-HULMAN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

7. Georgia Institute of Technology

8. University of Illinois

9. Purdue University

10. Carnegie Mellon University

BestCollegesOnline.com considered those colleges, in its own words, that “offer students of all kinds a completely technologically holistic experience, offering proximity to major techie corporations and internships, a huge range of courses and majors.”

Regarding Rose-Hulman, the online educational service noted “this Terre Haute, IN, school is one of the best for undergraduate and master’s degree-level techies, particularly those interested in engineering, biomedical engineering, electrical engineering and mechanical engineering are just a few of the majors offered at the well-ranked school.”

See more about the Top 10 Techiest Colleges in the U.S. ranking at www.bestcollegesonline.com/blog/2011/05/10/the-10-techiest-colleges-in-the-u-s/

Source: Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology

Fort Wayne Foreign Trade Zone Expands

2011-05-18T15:37:00.000+02:00

Representatives from about 40 companies are gathering this morning to discuss the new eight-county Northeast Indiana Foreign Trade Zone. Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance Vice President of Airport Development Patrick Dooley says the initiative allows businesses to grow jobs in Indiana.

Dooley says the program expands the zone that previously only included Allen County. He says officials are awaiting final approval from the national foreign trade zone board. That is expected late summer or early fall. Dooley says representatives from participating counties jumped on board after being educated on the benefits of foreign trade zones and working as a region to remain globally competitive.

Source: Inside INdiana Business

New Employer Coming to Evansville

2011-05-18T15:34:00.000+02:00

A Georgia company is planning to open a distribution center in southern Indiana. The Growth Alliance for Greater Evansville says Rotary Corporation intends to invest more than $1 million to purchase a building and install new equipment. The company hopes to have the center operating by the end of next month.

The Growth Alliance for Greater Evansville is pleased to announce the arrival of Rotary Corporation, the world’s largest supplier of aftermarket outdoor power equipment parts. Headquartered in Glennville, Ga., Rotary Corporation will open its new distribution center in the existing 37,000 sq. ft. structure located at 4916 O’Hara Drive in Evansville. Initially, Rotary Corporation will create seven new jobs, expanding to twelve over the next few years and invest over 1.2 million in the purchase of the building, improvements and new equipment. Rotary Corporation intends to be operational by the end of June.

“We are pleased that Rotary Corporation has chosen Evansville as its new home. This project is the perfect example of how we are striving to diversify our economy by recruiting basic companies that create new jobs and bring new dollars into the area,” said Donna Crooks, Business Development Director at the Growth Alliance for Greater Evansville.

Rotary Corporation carefully considered several other locations for its business, before ultimately deciding that Evansville, IN was the best fit.

"Several months ago, we set out to strategically locate a new location for our distribution center. After an extensive modeling and site selection effort, it became clear that Evansville, in particular, would be the optimal site for our facility."

"We would like to thank everyone that made this project possible, for their assistance," Donald Fountain, V.P. of Operations continued. "Everyone’s efforts, combined with Growth Alliance for Greater Evansville, an excellent transportation infrastructure, and abundant and affordable workforce, enabled Evansville to stand out from the crowd."

“As companies try to reduce costs and make its business processes more efficient, location is becoming an even more crucial element of their decision-‐making process. Evansville’s central location provides Rotary Corporation with easy access to major markets,” said Evansville Mayor Jonathan Weinzapfel.

The Growth Alliance for Greater Evansville partnered with realtors Chris Stewart and Steve Martin of The Martin Team as well as local economic development organizations to bring Rotary Corporation to Evansville. Partnering organizations included; the Indiana Economic Development Council; Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana; and Grow Southwest Indiana Workforce. Due to time constraints, the company chose not to take advantage of the tax phase-‐in incentives program.

“Collaboration with the organizations that can help us execute economic development initiatives is critical and it’s working. The team welcomes Rotary Corporation,” added Debbie Dewey, President of the Growth Alliance for Greater Evansville.

Source: Growth Alliance for Greater Evansville

$40 an Hour Jobs Coming to Indiana

2011-05-18T15:32:00.000+02:00

An energy asset software and controls company has relocated its headquarters from Georgia to Indianapolis and plans to create 70 jobs. Blue Pillar Inc. says it will begin hiring workers at an average wage of more than $40 per hour over the next few months to fill software application development and business operations positions. The company has commercially deployed energy asset management systems at Duke University Medical Center, Baylor University Medical Center and Houston's Methodist Hospital.

INDIANAPOLIS - Mayor Greg Ballard today joined executives from Blue Pillar, Inc., an energy asset software and controls company, in announcing it has relocated its corporate headquarters from Alpharetta, Ga., to Indianapolis and expects to hire 70 new workers by 2015 at its new corporate office at 9025 River Road.

"Indianapolis offers a predictable business climate, balanced budgets and low taxes. Blue Pillar's decision to move its headquarters to Indianapolis reflects our attractiveness as a place to do business, with our stable, affordable and pro-growth economic environment," said Mayor Ballard. "Blue Pillar's potential for growth is enhanced because of our central location and the depth of expertise and resources that exist in Indianapolis."

Founded in 2006 by former executives in industrial automation, power generation and enterprise software, Blue Pillar develops and deploys energy asset automation systems that enable the real-time management of distributed energy assets across an entire campus or group of customer sites. Systems are configured from a simple site survey in a matter of minutes, not months. The company has commercially deployed energy asset management systems at some of the leading academic and medical institutions in the country, including Duke University Medical Center, Baylor University Medical Center, Tenet Healthcare and Houston's Methodist Hospital.

"Our decision to move to Indianapolis was based on our desire to consolidate operations in a city anchored by engineering and process software development talent with a culture of entrepreneurship," said Blue Pillar CEO Kevin Kushman. "In addition, our ability to manage multi-regional projects from a central hub is crucial. Indianapolis offers us both the talent and the location we need to expand our operations."

The company will begin hiring workers at an average wage of more than $40 per hour over the next few months to fill software application development and business operations positions.

Based on Blue Pillar's planned job creation and capital investment, Develop Indy provided a grant to Blue Pillar that will be used for relocation expenses. To apply for a position with Blue Pillar, applicants may send a resume and cover letter to careers@bluepillar.com.

About Blue Pillar
Blue Pillar, Inc. provides state-of-the-art energy asset management products enabling sophisticated power-related situational awareness, emergency management, operational efficiencies, regulatory management/reporting and significant energy savings to owners of distributed energy assets, such as on-site generation, thermal energy and HVAC systems. Blue Pillar systems act as the technological glue into SmartGrid energy initiatives for managing large load customers with complex or multi-site electrical footprints.

About Develop Indy
Develop Indy is Marion County's local economic development organization. Develop Indy is dedicated to attracting new businesses, retaining and expanding existing businesses and serving as a catalyst for capital investment and quality job growth in Indianapolis/Marion County. Formed in 2007, Develop Indy is led by CEO Scott Miller. For more information about Develop Indy, visit www.developindy.com.

Source: Develop Indy

City Approves Sony Tax Breaks

2011-05-18T15:27:00.001+02:00

The Terre Haute City Council has approved a 10-year property tax abatement for Sony DADC. The company plans to invest $72 million into its plant there and possibly create 100 jobs. Most of the investment money will go toward manufacturing Blu-ray discs.

Our partners at WTHI-TV report under the abatement unanimously approved by the council, Sony will have their property taxes phased in over 10 years.

In addition to the possibility of new jobs, the company says the abatement and investment will help them secure the more than 1,300 workers already at the plant.

Sony makes equipment for Blu-rays, video games and other electronics at the Terre Haute facility.

Source: Terre Haute City Council, WTHI-TV

Auto Supplier Moving on Greencastle Investment

2011-05-18T15:25:00.000+02:00

An auto parts manufacturer is eyeing a multi-million dollar boost in Greencastle. The Banner-Graphic reports IAC Greencastle has received a 10-year tax abatement on the purchase of $8.8 million in new equipment.

Officials say the expansion will help retain 466 jobs and may result in the return of 255 positions at the plant.

The company says the project was prompted by new contracts.

Hiring and rehiring is expected to begin by the end of this year.

Source: Banner-Graphic

Steel Dynamics: Another Mill is a 'Possibility'

2011-05-18T15:22:00.000+02:00

Fort Wayne-based Steel Dynamics Inc. (Nasdaq: STLD) is considering a possible steel mill "on the river" in southern Indiana, but the idea has not officially been brought before the company's board. In an email to Inside INdiana Business, Steel Dynamics officials say such a large investment would depend on several factors including the outlook for the economy and competitive environment.

Steel Dynamics says various sites would be reviewed for any potential new plant, but can't confirm specifics.

Fox 7 in Evansville originally reported southern Indiana is among the areas under consideration.

A source tells Inside INdiana Business more details could be released in a matter of weeks.

Source: Inside INdiana Business

Toyota to Boost Indiana Production

2011-05-18T15:13:00.000+02:00

Toyota Motor Corp. (NYSE: TM) is planning to return to normal production levels earlier than expected following the March earthquake and tsunami in Japan. The automaker says all models built at its Princeton plant will return to 100 percent production in June. Toyota also has a production line at the Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. facility in Lafayette. Overall North American production will reach 70 percent of normal levels, up from 30 percent this month.

PRINCETON, IN. – Beginning June 6, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana will return to normal production schedules, which is earlier than expected following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

All TMMI-built models will return to 100 percent production in June. Other Toyota vehicles returning to 100 percent production in June are Avalon, Camry, Corolla, Matrix and Venza. Overall North American production will reach approximately 70 percent of normal levels, up from approximately 30 percent in May.

The improvement in parts availability from Japan is the result of countermeasure activities implemented by affected suppliers. Short-term interruptions to production still could occur because of reduced parts availability through the summer.

“We are pleased that our vehicles will be back to full production in June,” said Kelly Dillon, manager of External Affairs at TMMI. “During the nonproduction time, we have been able take advantage of plant improvement activities, training and community volunteer work for the American Red Cross and other flood relief efforts.”

Toyota is once again the world’s most valuable auto brand, according to rankings compiled by the research company Millward Brown. Toyota’s brand value increased 11 percent to $24.2 billion in the latest Brand Z Top100 annual ranking of the world’s most valuable brands, overtaking BMW, which had moved ahead of Toyota last year. Toyota previously was the world’s most valuable auto brand from 2006 through 2009.

Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana began production in Princeton, Ind., in 1998. Today, TMMI employs about 4,100 team members from the Tri-State. Inside the 4-million-square-foot automotive manufacturing facility, team members produce the Sequoia full-size sport utility vehicle, Sienna minivan and Highlander midsize sport utility vehicle. Toyota’s total investment in TMMI is $3.7 billion.

TMMI has paid more than $48 million in local property taxes since 1997 and donated more than $13 million since 1996 to local community organizations that support youth and education, health and human services, civic and community and arts and culture.

Source: Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana

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ERLANGER, Ky. – Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. (TEMA) will boost production earlier than expected following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami in Japan. Beginning in June, overall North American production will reach approximately 70 percent of normal levels, up from approximately 30 percent in May.

The improvement in parts availability from Japan is the result of countermeasure activities implemented by affected suppliers. Toyota will continue to evaluate production model-by-model on a monthly basis, with a goal to return to fully normalized production by late this year.

Models returning to 100 percent production in June are Avalon, Camry, Corolla, Highlander, Matrix, Sequoia, Sienna and Venza.

“Our team members and suppliers are working closely on countermeasure activities to improve the parts condition from Japan. We continue to develop solutions in order to restore 100 percent production as soon as possible for all of our North American-made vehicles,” said Steve St. Angelo, executive vice president of TEMA. “We appreciate the patience of our customers and dealers.”

Source: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America

Tax Provides Boost For Tourism Projects

2011-05-18T15:12:00.001+02:00

Revenue from an innkeepers tax will be used to fund several tourism efforts throughout Hamilton County. A bond initiative has been approved by the county council to support special projects involving sports, downtown redevelopment and historic preservation. Officials say the innkeepers tax generates approximately $2.5 million per year, which has to be pumped into tourism development initiatives.

NOBLESVILLE, Ind. – Innkeepers tax dollars captured from out-of-area visitors will be invested into several tourism projects throughout the county under a tourism bond initiative approved by the Hamilton County Council last week, the Hamilton County Convention and Visitors Bureau reports.

The $3.45 million bond will be financed by a 5 percent tax paid by visitors for up to 20 years and is expected to generate $31 million in local tax revenues over the life of the projects.

“This proposal is similar to single-use capital projects in larger cities, which often are supported by lodging taxes,” said bureau Executive Director Brenda Myers. “This is Hamilton County’s investment in destination development.”

The bond will support projects throughout the county, including sports, historic preservation, downtown redevelopment, the arts and a local park.

The Hamilton County CVB will manage many of the projects as part of its contract with the Hamilton County Visitor and Convention Commission, the governmentally appointed agency that oversees tourism operations in the county.

Supported projects were vetted through the Destination: Hamilton County Grant Review Committee in January. The Bureau will work with local municipalities to refine the remaining projects.

The Destination: Hamilton County Grant Review Committee approved the project concepts in January, with details to be determined. Projects may include up to $1 million in support for the Grand Park sports complex in Westfield; up to $1 million to support development of the Nickel Plate Arts Trail, including the purchase of two buildings in downtown Noblesville to house the NPAT headquarters and an arts and cultural center; up to $500,000 for an investment in Fishers to be determined later; up to $500,000 for enhancements to Hamilton County’s Strawtown Koteewi Park; and, additional support for signage and enhancements in Carmel.

The innkeepers tax, which is collected by the Hamilton County Treasurer and appropriated to the Hamilton County Visitor and Convention Commission, generates approximately $2.5 million annually, which must be spent on tourism development initiatives and marketing according to state statute.

The Hamilton County Visitor and Convention Commission contracts with the Hamilton County Convention and Visitors Bureau to lead local tourism marketing and development.

It is hoped that repayment of the bond can be shortened to 10 years rather than the scheduled 20, Myers said, through careful planning. Currently, the bond payments will represent about 10 percent of the total lodging tax collection for the year, or approximately $240,000.

“Innkeepers tax revenue must be spent on tourism development. We want to re-invest these dedicated dollars back into our communities, making them great places to live and to visit, said Myers. “Tourism development helps create jobs and investments which return taxes. We feel confident our research shows this is a win-win opportunity for the county.”

According to economic impact studies done by Certec Inc., tourism already contributes $16.8 million to the local tax base annually. Tourism contributes $365 million in total to the local economy, directly supporting more than 4,000 jobs and $82 million in wages.

Source: Hamilton County Convention and Visitors Bureau

Daniels Signs State Budget, Tax Cuts

2011-05-11T10:50:00.000+02:00

Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels has signed two bills with major business implications into law. The first is a two-year, $28 billion budget that includes an automatic taxpayer refund if reserves hit a certain amount. The second is a two percent corporate tax cut.

The governor signed 80 bills into law today, including the final pieces of his 2011 legislative agenda, which include a corporate income tax reduction, the broadening of public-private partnerships for infrastructure, legislative and congressional redistricting and the move of school board elections to the fall.

Other bills of interest signed today include: SEA 251, SEA 292, SEA 431, SEA 506, SEA 590, HEA 1129, HEA 1210, HEA 1216 and HEA 1402.

The governor also signed HEA 1001, the state budget bill, and offered this comment about the included automatic taxpayer refund:

“I’m very pleased at the enactment of the automatic taxpayer refund, though I would have preferred a simpler, cleaner version that gave any refund entirely back to taxpayers. Our administration ended the practice of skipping payments to the Teachers Retirement Fund and hope Indiana will never return to it. Assuming that’s correct, additional payments would be unnecessary and immaterial. If and when there is a refund, the legislature should examine a distribution that is per capita rather than pro rata, which would be far simpler and also more meaningful to people of modest means.”

In addition, the governor vetoed HEA 1177, Boards of Trustees for Universities. His veto message is below:

“I have chosen to veto HEA 1177, which would require that the majority of the members of the board of trustees of both Indiana University and Ball State University be residents of Indiana, and that all members of the I.U. board be citizens of the United States.

“While in practice this may always be the case, to require it by law expresses a narrow and provincial outlook inconsistent with the global role and stature we hope these schools will aspire to and attain. Also, the day may well come when these world-class institutions will want to include illustrious alumni from around the globe on their boards. The universities should not be denied such opportunities, nor future governors prohibited from making such appointments.”

Source: Office of Governor Mitch Daniels

Survey Names Indiana Best in Midwest

2011-05-11T10:46:00.000+02:00

Chief Executive magazine has listed Indiana as the top state in the Midwest to do business. The state also jumped 10 spots to sixth best nationwide in the publication's seventh annual “Best & Worst States” survey. The magazine asked chief executive officers about business tax policies, regulation, work force quality and livability factors.

Indianapolis, Ind. -- Indiana was ranked as the best place to do business in the Midwest and the sixth best nationwide in a survey of more than 500 chief executives by Chief Executive magazine.

The magazine’s seventh annual “Best & Worst States” survey asks CEO’s to evaluate states based on business tax policies, regulation, workforce quality and livability factors. Indiana’s 2011 ranking is up from 16th place in 2010. It’s among the highest year-to-year improvements in the survey.

“This ranking is a validation that business leaders recognize the work that Governor Daniels and the General Assembly are doing to make Indiana the best possible place to do business,” said Mitch Roob, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. “It seems fitting to celebrate this recognition on the same day that Amazon.com announced it will create hundreds of Indiana jobs by opening another fulfillment center here.”

Indiana’s 6th place ranking makes it the only Midwestern state in the publication’s top 10. Among neighboring states, Kentucky ranked 17th, Ohio ranked 41st, Michigan ranked 46th and Illinois ranked 48th.

The Chief Executive magazine rankings come less than a week after the state announced that it was the recipient of a 2011 Gold Shovel Award from Area Development magazine. The publication’s top honor for economic development efforts, the Gold Shovel was awarded based on the state’s 2010 performance in categories including total job creation, job creation per-capita, new capital investment and number of new facilities.

Chief Executive magazine is a bi-monthly publication for top management executives published by the Chief Executive Group LLC. Founded in 1977, the Chief Executive Group LLC is headquartered in Greenwich, Conn. The “Best & Worst States,” survey results are available at: http://chiefexecutive.net/best-worst-states-for-business

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Mitch Roob serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Source: Indiana Economic Development Corporation

Logistic Company Receives Foreign Trade Zone Status

2011-05-11T10:37:00.001+02:00

Plainfield-based MD Logistics has received Foreign Trade Zone status. The third party logistics and supply chain management company says the designation could result in additional jobs. MD Logistics is using the Foreign Trade Zone in its retail goods warehouse and plans to activate it within its pharmaceutical facility in 2012.

PLAINFIELD, INDIANA–MD Logistics, a third party logistics and supply chain management company, now operates under Foreign Trade Zone status. MDL activated FTZ services in the first quarter of this year, enabling its customers to defer duty on raw goods until they are sold or removed from the FTZ. Additionally, customs clearance and service fees are reduced, among other benefits.

MDL joins nearly 20 other FTZ sub-zones in the Central Indiana area. While most are largely manufacturers, MDL is one of the only 3PL’s in the market that can now offer FTZbenefits. “We see this as an opportunity to develop new business in the Indianapolis area, potentially resulting in additional jobs”, stated John Sell, MDL’s vice president.

MDL began the application process in the third quarter of 2010 after a large consumer electronics customer requested FTZ services. Realizing the savings potential for current and future customers, Sell knew it was time act. “Moving forward with FTZ activation is an enhancement to our overall service offerings and will allow our customers’ goods to flow to market more quickly”, stated Sell. Additionally, any goods imported into an FTZ can be transferred, duty free, to other FTZ’s in the US, Canada and Mexico, until the goods are consumed or re-exported. MDL appointed an FTZ Administrator who oversees all the customs reporting, and ensures that FTZ customers are receiving the highest amount of savings possible.

Initial activation includes375,000 square feetof retail goods warehouse space. MDL also included in the application process their 200,000 square foot pharmaceutical facility. Being able to import pharmaceuticals directly into an FTZ ensures the quality of the drug supply chain by reducing time spent in transit.. Sell went on to state, “The impact FTZ has on upholding the integrity of pharmaceuticals is vital, and we’re excited to offer that to our customers.” MDL plans to activate FTZ services in their pharmaceutical warehouse by Q1 of 2012.

About MD Logistics:
Founded in 1996, MD Logistics is a global provider of high quality Third Party Logistics Services. Vertical Markets including Life Sciences and Pharmaceuticals, Retail and Consumer Goods and Transportation Services are MD Logistics primary focus. Strategically located in Plainfield, Indiana, nine miles west of the Indianapolis International Airport, MD Logistics provides its clients with comprehensive, integrated supply chain solutions from order entry to final delivery.

Amazon to Open Third Indiana Facility

2011-05-11T10:22:00.000+02:00

Amazon.com has announced plans to open an approximately 900,000 square-foot distribution center in the state's capital. The company says it will hire several hundred full-time and seasonal workers this year. The new facility will be Amazon’s third in Indiana, joining centers in Whitestown and Plainfield.

Indianapolis -- Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN) today announced plans to open an approximately 900,000-square-foot fulfillment center in Indianapolis, Indiana. Amazon will create several hundred full-time jobs and hundreds of seasonal jobs at the facility this year.

The Indianapolis facility will be Amazon's third fulfillment center in Indiana. Amazon currently operates two fulfillment centers in Whitestown and Plainfield, Indiana, bringing its total footprint in the state to approximately 2.5 million square feet. The company employs thousands of people in these facilities.

"We've invested tens of millions of dollars and created hundreds of jobs at our Indiana facilities," said Dave Clark, vice-president, Amazon North America Operations. "We look forward to opening our third facility in Indiana this summer, bringing additional dollars and jobs to the state."

"We are committed to growth in Indiana because Governor Daniels and other state officials have demonstrated their commitment to Amazon jobs and investment," said Paul Misener, vice-president, Amazon Global Public Policy.

Amazon is currently recruiting candidates for jobs at the Indianapolis facility. Candidates should be highly motivated with drive, ambition and a passion for giving customers a first-class shopping experience. Full-time hourly openings include roles in Picking, Packing and Receiving/Shipping. Management roles include positions in Operations, Safety, Human Resources and Technical Support.

Candidates for hourly positions can apply online at www.amazonapplyonline.com or call 317-735-3122 for more information. Candidates for management positions can apply online at www.amazon.com/careers.

In the past two weeks, Amazon fulfillment centers in six states have announced hiring plans for full-time jobs with comprehensive benefits, including healthcare, 401(k) and stock-based awards. Amazon also announced plans for a new fulfillment center in Washington State, as well as expansion of an existing fulfillment center in Arizona.

The new facility is expected to be complete this summer. The facilities are operated by Amazon.com.indc, LLC.

Tax Cut a 'Difference Maker'

2011-05-11T10:21:00.000+02:00

A pending cut in the state's corporate income tax is already generating interest among companies looking for new locations. Secretary of Commerce Mitch Roob tells Inside INdiana Business the move by members of the General Assembly to reduce the tax by 2 percent is a "difference maker." One company that appears ready to expand in Indiana due to the tax climate situation is Amazon.com (Nasdaq:AMZN). Tennessee is considering changes to its tax regulations and that has the internet retailer contemplating abandoning distribution centers in the state.

The company's vice president for public policy Paul Misener tells the Chattanooga Times Free Press, "why not go to Indiana where we're welcome?"

Amazon.com has distribution centers in Whitestown and Plainfield.

Source: Chattanooga Times Free Press, Inside INdiana Busines

Indiana Opens Medicaid Electronic Health Record Program

2011-05-09T10:29:00.000+02:00

Indiana has become one of 15 states to launch a Medicaid Electronic Health Record Incentive Program. Eligible medical professionals and hospitals can receive payments after registering and making sure they have the proper EHR technology.

INDIANAPOLIS (May 6, 2011) – This week Indiana was one of the first 15 states to open their Medicaid EHR Incentive Programs for registration to Medicaid eligible professionals (EPs) and eligible hospitals. EPs and eligible hospitals will be able to receive Medicaid EHR incentive payments after successfully registering and having adopted, implemented, or upgraded certified EHR technology. Eligible professionals can receive up to $63,750 over six years, and eligible hospital payments begin with a $2 million base payment.

“We are extremely pleased to receive federal approval for the launch of Indiana’s EHR Incentive Program,” said Pat Casanova, Director of Indiana’s Office of Medicaid Policy and Planning. “This enhances our ability to assure continued improvements in healthcare quality, efficiency and safety for all Hoosiers.”

By using certified EHR technology, providers and patients can be confident that the electronic health information technology products and systems they use are secure, maintain confidentiality, and can work with other systems to share information.

For more information about participating in the Medicaid EHR Incentive Program, visit: http://provider.indianamedicaid.com/general-provider-services/ehr-incentive-program.aspx

Source: Family and Social Services Administration
http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=4034731054095788053

Purdue to Host U.S.-Brazil Bioenergy Symposium

2011-05-09T10:27:00.000+02:00

More than 300 bioenergy experts, researchers and government officials will gather at Purdue University later this month to discuss how to achieve sustainable bioenergy production. The annual Frontiers in Bioenergy: U.S.-Brazil Symposium on Bioenergy Production takes place May 15-18. Analysts say rising oil prices are helping Brazil confirm its position as a world leader in bioenergy.

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Leading bioenergy industry experts, researchers and government officials from the United States and Brazil will gather at Purdue University this month to outline a path for global sustainable bioenergy production.

More than 300 people are scheduled to participate in the sixth annual Frontiers in Bioenergy: U.S.-Brazil Symposium on Bioenergy Production, which runs May 15-18 in Purdue's Stewart Center. Event sponsors include Discovery Park, Purdue Energy Center, the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science and the National Science Foundation's Plant Genome Research Program.

"This year's symposium will feature an impressive lineup of U.S. and Brazilian leaders discussing how we can achieve sustainable bioenergy production," said Purdue biological sciences professor Maureen McCann, director of the Energy Center in Discovery Park. "In particular, we will engage with our Brazilian colleagues to forge strong collaborations around our common goal of making bioenergy a key component of national energy security."

Participants will include leaders from biotechnology industries involved in genetic improvement of energy crop plants such as Chromatin Inc. and Ceres Inc. as well as second- and third-generation biofuels research groups such as ExxonMobil, Shell Oil, Honeywell subsidiary UOP LLC, the Brazilian Sugarcane Industry Association and POET LLC.

Brazilian researchers from the University of Vicosa, University of Itajubá and University São Paulo will join them. U.S. researchers from Cornell University, University of Illinois, University of Minnesota, University of Nebraska, Purdue, U.S. Department of Energy, Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the U.S. Department of Agriculture also are participating in the four-day symposium.

Keynote speakers are Marcos Buckeridge, scientific director of the Brazilian Bioethanol Science and Technology Laboratory; U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Philip H. Cullom, director of Energy and Environmental Readiness Division; Paul Gilna, director of the BioEnergy Science Center at Oak Ridge; and Sharlene Weatherwax, director of the DOE's biological and environmental research.

Workshops will feature speakers and discussions on feedstock, genetics and genomics; biology and genetics of sustainability; landscape sustainability assessment of bioenergy cropping systems; feedstock logistics; biochemical and thermochemical conversion pathways; and human dimensions and the economic and policy issues for advanced biofuels.

Analysts say rising oil prices are helping Brazil confirm its position as a world leader in bioenergy. Brazilian exports of alcohol made from sugarcane alone are expected to increase from 800 million liters last year to 2 billion liters this year.

"We can learn a great deal from Brazil's success in becoming energy independent," said event co-organizer Nick Carpita, a Purdue botany and plant pathology professor. "Brazil's energy independence in a large part has made them the second-fastest growing economy in the world. In turn, Brazilian scientists can learn much in return from U.S. innovation in third-generation biofuels and the chemical engineering of biobased products."

Registration, which is $350, includes the opening reception with hors d'oeuvres on May 15; continental breakfast on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday; a Monday evening reception with a barbecue buffet; and a Tuesday banquet.

For information on registration and abstract submission, contact Erica Wilson at ericaw@purdue.edu or 765-494-7221. For information about the symposium, speakers, sessions and other details, contact Jill Wable of the Energy Center at jwable@purdue.edu or 765-494-1610.

Undergraduate, graduate and postdoctoral students and pretenured faculty can still apply for free-registration awards thanks to support from the DOE's Office of Science and the National Science Foundation's Plant Genome Research Program. Applicants must reside at U.S. institutions. Go to http://www.conf.purdue.edu/bioenergy for an application and registration form.

The Energy Center, led by McCann, is part of the university's Global Sustainability Initiative, which was recently launched in Discovery Park to coordinate Purdue's research efforts in sustainability challenges such as climate change, energy, the environment and water. The initiative includes the Center for the Environment, Purdue Water Community, Purdue Climate Change Research Center and the Purdue Center for Global Food Security.

McCann also is director of the $20 million Center for Direct Catalytic Conversion of Biomass to Biofuels, or C3Bio, which is developing new methods to directly convert the bulk of plants like maize, sorghum and switchgrass to advanced biofuels and other products currently derived from oil.

Source: Purdue University

Slingshot SEO Adding More Than 100 Jobs

2011-05-09T10:01:00.000+02:00

Internet marketing practice Slingshot SEO plans to expand its Indianapolis headquarters and add up to 114 jobs by 2013. The high-tech company intends to invest more than $685,000 in the project. Slingshot SEO currently employs 50 workers and plans to begin hiring consultants, software engineers and marketers immediately.

INDIANAPOLIS (May 6, 2011) - Governor Mitch Daniels joined executives from internet marketing practice Slingshot SEO and Mayor Greg Ballard today to announce that the company will expand its operations in Indianapolis, creating up to 114 new jobs by 2013.

Founded in 2006 by three friends from Zionsville High School, Slingshot SEO is one of the country's leading search engine optimization firms. The company plans to invest more than $685,000 to expand within its current space at 8900 Keystone Crossing.

"Indiana has an entrepreneurial culture that has seen high-tech companies such as ExactTarget, Aprimo and Scale Computing achieve great success in our state and Slingshot SEO is just the latest," said Daniels. "These companies have been particularly successful at providing the kind of opportunities that graduates of Indiana's colleges and universities are looking for as they begin their careers and that benefits all generations of Hoosiers."

With clients including The Finish Line, Interactive Intelligence and ExactTarget, the company has already grown to a team of 50 professionals and plans to begin hiring SEO consultants, software engineers, marketers and client success managers immediately.

"Operating in Indiana is a significant competitive advantage for technology companies, especially those within the measured marketing space," Kevin Bailey, said president and co-founder of Slingshot SEO. "Indiana's tech business environment is world-class, with a skilled workforce, supportive business leaders, and growth-friendly policies. There's no better place to grow a business like Slingshot SEO."

Search engine optimization, the science of helping deserving brands achieve business success through search, is a high-growth sector of internet marketing.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Slingshot SEO Inc. up to $1.15 million in performance-based tax credits based on the company's job creation plans. The city of Indianapolis and Develop Indy will support property tax abatement for Slingshot SEO before the Metropolitan Development Commission.

"Indianapolis is a hotbed for internet marketing. We have companies in this industry, including Slingshot SEO, that are experiencing rapid growth and gaining national recognition," said Mayor Greg Ballard. "These high-tech companies in this very specialized area benefit from our skilled workforce and low costs of doing business. We have high expectations for their continued success and have been proud to support them as they've grown from start-ups to global leaders."

Slingshot SEO is part of Indiana's cluster of digital marketing businesses, or "measured marketing" companies. According to research from Ball State's Center for Business and Economic Research, employment within this sub-sector grew at a rate of 156 percent or 48 percent more than the national average. More than 70 firms including ExactTarget, Aprimo, Compendium, Right On Interactive, ModalLogix, Marketpath, Cantaloupe, Delivra and Formstack call Indiana home.

About Slingshot SEO
Founded in 2006, Slingshot SEO is a professional search engine optimization practice whose full-service strategic consulting and internet marketing services deliver unparalleled results for its enterprise-caliber clients. Their tight, business-impacting plans enable clients to conquer search with confidence, and results are driven by tireless passion to master the science of search. For more information about Slingshot SEO, visit www.slingshotseo.com .

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Mitch Roob serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov .

Source: Indiana Economic Development Corporation

Proposal Extends Use of Tax Abatement

2011-05-09T09:45:00.000+02:00

The president of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce is highlighting a provision in a bill passed during the recent legislative session as a key tool to help Hoosier businesses. Kevin Brinegar says the proposal deals with how local governments utilize tax abatement for economic development. He believes the plan will help many Hoosier businesses remain competitive.

Brinegar also says the plan to reduce the state's corporate income tax by two percent should also give business owners more money to re-invest in their companies, or help keep talent by increasing salaries.

He says that reduction should benefit more than 20,000 C corporations throughout the state.

We will have an in-dept examination of the impact of the tax cut during this weekend's Inside INdiana Business Television.

Source: Inside INdiana Business

State Receives Top Economic Development Honor

2011-05-09T09:35:00.000+02:00

WESTBURY, N.Y. - Area Development magazine awarded the Indiana Economic Development Corporation with a 2011 Gold Shovel award, the publication's top honor for economic development efforts.

Indiana was one of only three states to receive the award, which is based on 2010 performance in categories including total job creation, job creation per-capita, new capital investment and number of new facilities.

"People are taking notice that 2010 was a record-setting year for economic development activity in Indiana," said Mitch Roob, Secretary of Commerce and chief executive officer of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. "Receiving the Gold Shovel is a great honor, but it's also a challenge to continue doing all we can to make Indiana the most business friendly destination for growing companies."

The 2011 award is the first Gold Shovel recognition that Indiana has received in the six year history of the award. The state received Area Development's Silver Shovel recognition, its next highest honor, in 2008, 2009 and 2010. The Silver Shovel is awarded using the same criteria to three states in each of three population categories: under 4 million; 4 to 9 million; and over 9 million.

"In the wake of the Great Recession, economic development agencies are working harder than ever to not only achieve economic recovery, but also to attract new businesses and grow their existing businesses," said Geraldine Gambale, editor of Area Development.

The accolade is Indiana's second in as many months. In March, Site Selection magazine ranked Indiana ninth among all states for the number of new economic development projects in 2010. The ranking was up one spot from 10th place the year before.

Area Development is a bi-monthly publication focusing on business site selection and relocation issues. Published since 1965, the New York -based magazine has more than 45,000 subscribers. The full-results of the 2011 Gold and Silver Shovel Awards will be available in the magazine's Spring 2011 Executive Summary issue and online at www.areadevelopment.com/awards.

About IEDC
Created by Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005 to replace the former Department of Commerce, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation is governed by a 12-member board chaired by Governor Daniels. Mitch Roob serves as the chief executive officer of the IEDC. For more information about IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Source: Indiana Economic Development Corporation

Purdue, China University to Create Research Center

2011-05-09T09:33:00.000+02:00

Purdue University has signed a deal with a Chinese institution to create a joint research center. The China Agricultural University-Purdue center will explore global food security and hunger. The facility is sponsoring a symposium this month on plant pathology.

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – Purdue University President France A. Córdova has returned from a trip to China where she and the president of China Agricultural University signed an agreement in Beijing to create a joint research center that will address issues of global food security and hunger.

Also present at the April 25 signing were Purdue's Arden Bement, director of the Global Policy Research Institute, and Michael Brzezinski, interim dean of international programs.

Work at the CAU-Purdue Joint Research Center initially will focus on plant stress biology, including how to make crops better withstand drought and heat in Indiana, the United States and globally. The center will promote research collaborations and the exchange of information between the two institutions with the aim of increasing agricultural productivity.

The partnership demonstrates the importance of international collaborations in fundamental research, Córdova said.

Seven Purdue faculty members led by Karen Plaut, associate dean of Purdue's College of Agriculture and head of Agricultural Research Programs, will attend the first symposium sponsored by the research center. The May 10-12 event, partially funded by a Purdue/CAU strategic partnership grant, will focus on plant pathology.

With corn and soybeans being main crops in Indiana, the United States and China, both countries share common issues and goals. In addition, changing climate, water shortages, increasing salinity and pests are serious impediments to crop production all over the world.

Scientists from Purdue and CAU will combine their expertise in dissecting the fundamental basis of plant stress tolerance and devise methods to improve stress tolerance in crop plants.

"This research will help provide insights of value to Indiana and U.S. farmers on important questions about how to make our crops more drought- or heat-tolerant, for example," said Jay Akridge, Glenn W. Sample Dean of Purdue's College of Agriculture. "And our Purdue Agriculture students will have a chance to study abroad in one of the world's most dynamic economies."

The CAU-Purdue Joint Research Center is an extension of the universities' 1997 memorandum of understanding that has enabled research collaborations and exchanges of students and faculty members between the two universities.

The center, to operate in existing facilities at CAU, will serve as a nucleus for advanced research programs, providing opportunities for Purdue faculty and students to conduct research in China, where CAU has unique natural resources and environments not available at Purdue.

It also will aid in recruiting highly qualified students from CAU for graduate school at Purdue. CAU sends more students to Purdue's College of Agriculture than any other institution in the world.

"We are excited about the potential of the new joint research center to enhance our already strong partnership with China Agricultural University," Akridge said. "It will promote research collaborations and idea exchange between our two institutions, provide a platform for the training of our students and foster future private-public sector partnerships."

CAU could benefit from the partnership in part through enhanced access to Purdue Agriculture's expertise and by building research capacity in fields related to food, nutrition, energy and the environment.

There also would be opportunities for the center to work with the newly created Purdue Global Policy Research Institute to address public policy issues for the betterment of food sustainability.

Purdue's International Programs in Agriculture and CAU's Office of International Relations will provide support to establish and run the research center.

Signing the agreement for CAU was that university's president, Ke Bingsheng.

Source: Purdue University

Electric Car Company Seizes Opportunity

2011-05-02T13:59:00.002+02:00

An Indiana manufacturer is trying to take advantage of skyrocketing gas prices to increase its market share. Electric car maker Think North America is launching a sales blitz for its City vehicle this weekend, just as gas prices approach $4.35 a gallon at some Indiana stations. In an interview to air this weekend on Inside INdiana Business Television, Think North America's Brendan Prebo talks about what the company feels are advantages of electric vehicle technology.

Prebo says plans are still calling for about 100 people to be working at the company's Elkhart manufacturing operation by the end of the year.

He says an electric car can go about 100 miles for the price of half-a-gallon of gas at today's rates.

The company says the technology could save drivers more than $3,000 a year in fuel expenses.

Think's presence in Elkhart has been having an impact elsewhere in the state. It has a supplier agreement with Indianapolis-based Ener1 for lithium-ion batteries.

Source: Think North America, Inside INdiana Business
drivers over $3,000 a year in fuel expenses.