News from the LaGrange County Economic Development Corporation

The LaGrange County Economic Development Corporation and the State of Indiana are very

proactive when it comes to incentives to encourage new business expansions, business attraction projects, and entrepreneurialism. LaGrange County and its communities have been very proactive in utilizing TIF (tax-increment financing) districts to help improve industrial areas, and will consider the use of other incentives such as tax abatements and bonding.

Additionally, the LaGrange County Economic Development Corporation has created the LaGrange County Investment Fund which was created to help assist with relocation and attraction efforts.

To find out more about the innovative and unique incentive programs available, click here.

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Indiana Ranked 2nd Most Competitive State for Business

In Site Selection magazine's Top 10 Competitive States of 2012, Indiana was ranked as the most

competitive state for business in the Midwest and the second best nationwide. The award is based on the state's ability to attract investment and corporate entrepreneurs.

Victor Smith, Indiana Secretary of Commerce noted that, "With our low-tax, business-friendly climate, the national spotlight continues to shine on Indiana as a state that works for business."

Earlier this month, Indiana was ranked as the best place to do business in the Midwest and the fifth best nationwide by Chief Executive Magazine, in a survey of more than 500 chief executives.

Read Full Article from Indiana's News Center

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Mudd-Ox

The LaGrange County EDC has been honored to work with numerous entrepreneurs in the county to help them gain solid footing as they start their business.

Mudd-Ox Inc. is a manufacturer of both six and eight-wheeled and tracked all-terrain vehicles. The business was started by owner Matt Oxender in late 2005 after he saw the need for an improved recreational and commercial ATV.

The LaGrange County Council, at the request of the LaGrange County EDC, approved the use of tax abatements on the investment into a new facility for Mudd-Ox, who also received a grant from the LaGrange County Investment Fund. This expansion consisted of the purchase of a number of CNC and other various machinery and supported the creation of up to 3 new positions, as well as the retention of current staffing levels.

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Annalea's Boutique

Owners Leanna and Reed Martin opened Annalea's Boutique in March of 2011, providing Shipshewana with a unique, upscale clothing shop. The Martins were assisted by the LCEDC, who they contacted initially to inquire about starting a small business.

The LCEDC put them in contact with Wes Shie, a business adviser from the Northeast Indiana Small Business Development Center, who helped them secure financing from the Community Development Corporation of Northeast Indiana.

"Annalea's Boutique is a perfect example of the tourism based entrepreneurship that has helped make the Town of Shipshewana and LaGrange County flourish. I am confident that businesses like Annalea's Boutique will only grow in our community and continue to make our area flourish as a magnet for tourism."
- Keith Gillenwater, President & CEO, LCEDC

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