Indy Chamber

We are committed to making the Indianapolis region the best place to live and do business. www.indychamber.com

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#WeAreIndy: Make a Difference

From product design to workforce development, newcomer to Indy DISHER has solutions for entrepreneurial needs, and is making a positive difference in the lives of their customers!

An engineering, solution, and manufacturing company based out of Zealand, Michigan, DISHER has five major focuses when helping their customers: discovery, engineering, manufacturing tech, talent attraction, and business solutions. Starting with the discovery focus, DISHER helps customers create the product they are dreaming of, or, if their customer already has an existing product, brainstorm ways for improvement. Once these decisions are made, they move onto the engineering phase where the product is actually manufactured. The next step is manufacturing tech, where engineers will go into the plant and assist in the revamping of each product.

With a firm belief in working with their customers to thoroughly develop their product and business, DISHER also offers talent and business solution programs to help with workforce development needs. DISHER also connects the client to local talent by finding an engineer and hiring hourly consultants. When it comes to brainstorming business solutions, DISHER invites companies to have an open dialogue about employee retention or discuss other issues (cultural, basic analysis, etc.). Because of the high demand for an open conversation on these topics, DISHER created a program every Wednesday titled ‘White-Board Wednesday’ where a customer can come in for a session to discuss internal and external issues in regards to business solutions, hiring talent, and improving engineering.

In April of 2016, DISHER was looking to make a move and expand but they weren’t sure where to start. In a bold decision by Ryan Noble, DISHER team-lead, they decided to attend the Indy Chamber’s Annual Event in order to get a grasp on why Indy should be their next move. While they were there, they interacted and networked with C-Suite members and Indy Chamber employees and felt not only welcomed, but also enjoyed the environment offered by the event and community.

As the search for a new location progressed, Noble saw Indy as a great place to grow organically and make long-lasting connections. They saw the small town similarities offered in Zealand mirrored in Indy with also the big city growth and feel. In July of 2016, the decision was made and DISHER moved right into the heart of downtown.

Now as an Indy Chamber member, DISHER uses their membership by attending networking events, receiving sponsorship opportunities and connecting with Chamber employees. According to Briggs, the “Indy Chamber helps with more than you would think as a member. They not only help us get the word out, we also love working one-on-one with members of the sales team.” As DISHER kicked off in Indy, they utilized the chamber to learn different ways to assess sales and connect with more people in Indianapolis. Accessing more Chamber Perks, DISHER places ads in the Monday Morning Memo, blog postings and member news.

“Make a positive difference” is the tune DISHER sings on a daily basis. They apply their mission statement to not only how they interact with customers, but also to their lifestyle and overall company culture. “I never thought I’d work at a place where my beliefs on how people should be treated would coincide with the company’s mission,” says Anna Briggs, talent engineer at DISHER. Their mission shapes the DISHER employees from the top down and sets a great example for all companies, big and small. We are happy they decided to join us in the Circle City!

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5 Reasons We Love Indy

1. Hoosier Hospitality

We know the people of Indianapolis are a good-hearted bunch. From opening the floodgates in May for 350,000 Indianapolis Motor Speedway fans to the Indiana State Fair in August. The people of Indy not only know how to have a good time, we also are living proof that “Hoosier Hospitality” is a real thing. 

2. Not too big, not too small

As Goldilocks would say, “it’s just right.” We love living in a big city that gives off small town vibes. Indy has all the amenities any big city offers, such as the world’s largest Children’s Museum, the IMA, and a beautiful canal and Cultural Trail running through downtown. Even with all of this jazz, Indy is still surprisingly easy to navigate!

3. The Skywalk System

For being cold most of the year, the skywalk system is a life saver. If you’re a professional when it comes to rigging the system, you can hit a lot of Indy’s hot spots without having to brave the weather. It connects the PNC Building, Lucas Oil Stadium, the Conrad, Indiana Repertory Theatre, the Indiana Convention Center, and many more!

4. Dancing Ann

Ann lights up Mass Ave! Literally. Dancing Ann grooves all day and night, often joined by friends and strangers alike. She keeps things fun so dance on over to Mass Ave as you’re celebrating countless summer festivals on the circle, such as Rib Fest, German Fest and the Strawberry Festival! Have you ever danced with Ann?

5. Foodies & Breweries

Little known fact about Indy: we have a thriving food scene! When it comes to a culinary dream, Indy is right up there with Chicago and New York. Small businesses such as TwoDEEP, Sun King, Big Woods Brewery, and Hotel Tango Whiskey, are flocking to our growing city and we couldn’t be more excited to be taste testers. 

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Top 5 Ways to Fight Hunger in September

It’s not too late to be a part of September Hunger Action Month! Feeding America and its partner agencies are generating awareness of the hunger problem facing millions across the nation including the thousands in just Marion County. Here are 5 ways you can join the fight against hunger. 1. Be aware. 1 in 8 people in central Indiana struggles with hunger and food insecurity. To make matters worse, many of these people don’t qualify for SNAP or free school meals for children. 2. Volunteer. There are many ways to assist food banks and pantries with their mission. See how you can volunteer at Gleaners Food Bank or help out at Fletcher Place! 3. Donate. One of the easiest ways to fight hunger is by supporting local hunger relief agencies that need funding for vital programs that assist children, seniors, veterans and many more. 4. Stay up-to-date. Education can be a powerful tool to fighting hunger. Visit Gleaners.org or FeedAmerica.org to learn more about those that need hunger assistance and how you can help. 5. Share a story. More than 1 million Hoosiers statewide need food assistance. Use your massive social media network to spread the word on the hunger problem.

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#WeAreIndy- Bosma Enterprises

Indy Chamber member Bosma Enterprises has a mission to create opportunities for people who are blind or visually impaired. Opening in 1915, Bosma Enterprises has since grown to provide resources such as job training and rehabilitation, and proactively seeks to change misconceptions about those with a visual handicap. 

People who are blind or visually impaired have a 70 percent unemployment rate. Recognizing that employment builds confidence and independence, Bosma Enterprises works with employers and employees to identify needs, such as special screen reading software, to successfully place blind or visually impaired people into the workforce. “Diversity is so important in the workforce. Approaching problems with a different way of thinking, blind and visually impaired workers bring a unique skillset to the workplace. Everyone deserves a chance at success. We just give them the opportunity,” explains Anthony Scott, Communications Specialist at Bosma Enterprises. The majority of the visually impaired lose their vision later in life. In fact, only 30 percent of people the visually impaired are completely blind. Because the majority of people that turn to Bosma Enterprises for help are adjusting to vision loss, Bosma offers a statewide rehabilitation program that teaches Braille and how to live independently. At their Indianapolis facility, Bosma has an apartment simulation that their clients can use to practice every day tasks. 

In addition to providing job placement services, Bosma Enterprises also employs the blind and visually impaired at their production facility. Manufacturing auto parts and medical items such as sanitary gloves through a federal program contract with the Veterans Hospitals, Bosma employs line workers as well as cafeteria workers. Recognizing that employees need reliable ways to work and to medical appointments, Bosma Enterprises offers transportation via a fleet of buses. Dedicated to being a resource for businesses in the Indy region, the Indy Chamber serves as a way for Bosma Enterprises to connect to the community. “Through our Indy Chamber membership, we are able to develop new relationships and change the way people think about doing business and finding new talent in the workforce,” says Scott. To learn more about Bosma Enterprises, visit ww.bosma.org

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#WeAreIndy- Tulip Tree Creamery

Some people have a passion for sports, cars, or music. Other people have a passion for the finer things in life. For example, Fons Smits has an intense passion for the art of cheese making.

Originally from the Netherlands, Fons Smits has traveled the world as a dairy plant consultant and landed in Indianapolis to start Tulip Tree Creamery. After Fons paired up with the business savvy Laura Davenport, the dynamic duo founded Tulip Tree Creamery in 2014. Since then, the small business has hit the ground running and is now distributed both locally and regionally in farmers markets and specialty stores.

So how exactly does one make cheese? We took an exclusive tour with Laura to find out.

To make the cheese, the first and most basic ingredient is milk. Tulip Tree Creamery purchases their milk from Lot Hill Dairy Farm in southern Indiana that does not use antibiotics or growth hormones on their herd. After the intake process at Tulip Tree Creamery, the milk is combined with other ingredients for the specific taste and firmness and then is placed into molds so that it can set up.

After the molds are removed, the cheese is then aged in Tulip Tree Creamery’s aging rooms and goes through different processes based on the type of cheese being made. For instance, beer cheese is repeatedly washed in a beer rinse to get the beer flavor! Fun fact: before electricity, cheese was aged in caves because it was the coolest place to store it. In a homage to this practice, the aging rooms at Tulip Tree are fondly referred to as “The Caves”.

After the aging process, the cheese is scrubbed to perfection and is wrapped by hand and sent to distributors or local farmers markets! To see a full listing of cheeses offered, click here.

Great! How can I learn more?

We are glad you asked. Tulip Tree Creamery offers classes so that you can become an expert cheese artisan too. Check out their full website at tuliptreecreamery.com.

Being an Indy Chamber member has its perks.

A proud Indy Chamber member, Tulip Tree Creamery takes advantage of networking opportunities to get connected to the business community and relies on the Indy Chamber to help raise awareness about Indy’s small business community and to provide resources to entrepreneurs.

“We are proud to be a part of the small business community in Indy. It is such a collaborative environment! We partner with several local breweries for our beer cheese, and sell our products in several small businesses throughout Indy,” explains Laura Davenport, Sales and Marketing Manager at Tulip Tree Creamery.

Get your hands on this cheese!

Check out where you can purchase Tulip Tree Creamery’s artisan cheeses!

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5 Reasons Why You Can’t Miss HobNob 2016

We’re celebrating our election year by putting the party in politics! HobNob is the Indy region’s premier political event, reaching across party lines to bring together the region’s best and brightest political leaders. Still teetering on the idea of purchasing a ticket? Check out these must see happenings at HobNob 2016 that you won’t wait to miss!

1. Political Banter

Gubernatorial candidates, Lieutenant Governor Eric Holcomb, John Gregg, and Rex Bell, will all be in attendance at this year’s HobNob. Each candidate will be speaking and answering questions from a moderator during the event. 

2. Modern Mass Transit

Want to hop on board? Attendees will be invited to board a 60-foot electric bus to get a glimpse of Indy’s future in transit. By improving mass transit in Indy, we can better connect people to jobs, grow investments, revitalize neighborhoods, and empower communities. Visit transitdrivesindy.com to support the Indy Chamber’s transit initiative! 

3. VIP Experience 

The early bird gets the worm! The VIP Experience opens at 4:00 pm and guarantees a free, open bar and upper level access to Union Station all evening. Escape the hustle and bustle and join us in VIP!

4. The Tunes

Chamber Music is back on stage playing anything from Stevie Wonder to Ed Sheeran to Chaka Khan! It wouldn’t be a party without music. Join us on the dance floor!

5. It’s the Party of the Year

 We’ve planned this night just for you! Come hang out with us, enjoy a beer or glass of wine and engage in some political banter.

We’ll see you on September 1 at the Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Downtown Union Station.

This isn’t your grandfather’s political meet-up. To register, please visit our registration page. General admission to the event opens at 5:00 pm and includes free wine and beer. If you have any questions, please email Lisa Roper at [email protected].

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How to do Summer in Indy

Summer in Indianapolis is like wine tasting: you can choose from a variety of things you’d like to try, you can enjoy them at your own pace, and it gets better with age. So how can you make the most of your summer in Indy? Don’t worry friends, we have the answers.

1. Get physical.

Indy offers some great ways to get moving and catch some rays! Hit up the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, hop on a Pacers Bikeshare bike, rent a boat on the canal, or go check out the Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course!

2. Stay cool.

Prefer to stay indoors? That’s cool. Don’t miss out on The Children’s Museum (did you hear that they are expanding?), Indiana State Museum, and the Eiteljorg Museum.

3. Get creative.

Join a photography class. Explore the Soldiers and Sailors Monument. Take a tour of the Indiana Statehouse to commemorate the Hoosier Bicentennial. Get out there and get creative!

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10 Things You Can Relate to If You Love Indy

We took to Twitter to find out what people love about Indy, and found out that we could relate.

1. Keeping a balanced diet. You have priorities. 

2. Realizing that being temporarily blind is worth it.

3. Meeting new friends- real, imaginary, or somewhere in-between.

4. Rooting for the home team.

5. Embracing your wild side.

6. Being famous for your superior dance moves.

7. Impeccable hospitality to all.

8. Monkeying around.

9. Going fast on four wheels.

10. Going fast on two wheels.

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#WeAreIndy – TriVersity Construction

Akilah Darden had never thought much about Indianapolis. She had never visited. Did not know anyone who lived here and admits did not have the city on her bucket list. Until she got a call about TriVersity Construction, a 10 year old construction management and general construction firm with offices in Indianapolis and Cincinnati. “I was so attracted to the culture of mentorship and diversity and discipline at TriVersity,” says Darden.

When it came time to grow a larger presence in Indianapolis, Mel Gravely, TriVersity’s President and CEO, saw an opportunity to recruit an operations leader that embodied TriVersity’s values. “Akilah Darden was an ideal fit,” Gravely says. “The right construction background. The right passion for the business and the right mindset for our culture.”

The company’s growth over the years has fueled a theme of building a better way – an idea resting on three core values: the customer experience, the power of diversity, and discipline throughout the business. TriVersity has built a $68 million company specializing in serving healthcare and corporate clients with on-going construction needs and with community based organizations.

“People talk about values but I’m inspired by the fact TriVersity is living them. For example, 35% of the construction management roles are held by women and over half of the company’s employees are minority. It’s not what many people would imagine a construction company to be like, but it’s that focus on bringing diverse groups of people together that makes it special.”

Darden spent the last 17 years as a construction manager on the East Coast in the Bethesda and Baltimore areas. There, she built an impressive resume leading building projects from $35 million to $200 million and as the spearhead for both Women in Construction and Young Professionals programs. With such an extensive resume, Darden could have stayed on the East Coast, building her career where she began it. But with the opportunity to do groundbreaking work with TriVersity in a city like Indianapolis that’s primed for new ideas and growth, she knew a move to Indy was the right one. Now, eight months as a citizen of Indianapolis, she loves the vibrant city and warm, welcoming people. Darden is now focused on taking her passion (and TriVersity’s!) for innovation and empowerment and building new relationships in a city that’s just as focused on building something new.

“Construction is an exciting field,” says Darden. “You need people with so many different skills: engineering, design, project management, just to name a few. I see so much potential for skilled individuals to really thrive in the industry, as long as we can pave the way for them.”

For Darden, that’s exactly what this leadership opportunity means. By changing the way people think about the construction industry, she’s creating new opportunities for TriVersity Construction to offer something to their clients that the competition just can’t.

“A big part of why I joined TriVersity was for the mentorship opportunity with Mel Gravely our President and CEO,” says Darden. “Mentorship has been a big part of my life, and it’s been great to see that play such a big role in the Indy Chamber’s programming.”

Through Indy Chamber events like the Women in Business Retreat in February, Darden has begun building her own local community and a support network of mentors and peers to help her in her mission to open up doors for herself and for her company in Indianapolis. Akilah is also actively involved with the Indiana Construction Roundtable, Indiana Subcontractors Association and Mid States Minority Supplier Development Council.

Akilah has been in Indianapolis for eight months. During this time, she has participated in the career fair at Smoky Row Elementary School and was a panelist for the Women In Green Luncheon by the USGBC. She is also active on two Boards and an ACE mentor at North Central High School.

“The world is changing,” says Darden. “We need to change with it.” Together with the Indy Chamber, Darden is excited to lead the way as TriVersity Construction changes their corner of the world in Indianapolis and beyond.

Did we mention, Akilah has four children: two sons – Travis, Jr (JR) 6, Aiden 4, and identical twin daughters Alana & Tiana who recently turned 2. She and her husband Travis have been married for nine years.

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#WeAreIndy: TwoDEEP Brewing Co.

After cracking open his first two home brew bottles, TwoDEEP founder and Director of Brewing Shenanigans Andy Meyer knew he was in too deep to turn back on his love for home brewing.

In 2011, after countless home brews and encouragement from friends and family, the former media salesman decided to open TwoDEEP Brewing Co. in downtown Indianapolis. Craft beer has become just as much a staple in Indianapolis as the Colts or the Pacers, so Meyer hoped that opening a brewery downtown would be a successful endeavor. TwoDEEP opened its doors in August of 2014.

Two years later, Meyer’s optimism and hard work continues to pay off. Specializing in malt-forward beer, TwoDEEP brews traditional European true-to-style beers. If you aren’t quite sure what that means, you’re in luck. TwoDEEP enjoys educating anyone that walks into their TapRoom about the different styles of beer and how they are brewed.

Reminiscent of a rustic lodge, TwoDEEP’s TapRoom is inviting with brick and wood laden interior, complete with a cozy fireplace to round out the woodsy feel. If you don’t consider yourself a beer person, TwoDEEP is unique in the fact that it also sells wine and liquor in the TapRoom. Designed with everyone in mind, their TapRoom is a space for gatherings, business meetings, networking events, and even fundraising events. TwoDEEP has partnered with local charities including College Mentors for Kids, the Children’s Neuroblastoma Cancer Foundation, and Regeneration Indy in the past and has donated 20 percent of pint sales to their cause.

As a small business in Indy, TwoDEEP finds the business climate thriving.

“People in Indy want to buy and support local goods and services. Since revitalization started in Indy, a lot of great things are happening here. People want to walk, bike, and explore downtown!” says Lizzie Hineman, Marketing Manager at TwoDEEP.

TwoDEEP is a self-distributed brewery, which gives them the opportunity to create a close relationship with all of their accounts in Indiana. Maintaining a very organic business model with a do-it-yourself attitude, all of their beer is canned in-house as well. Locally, you can find their beers poured at bars and restaurants including the Rathskellar, Bru Burger, BurgerHaus, and Bourbon Street Distillery.

“As an Indy Chamber member, we enjoy the networking opportunities and events where we can connect to other people and businesses,” Hineman says, “We are looking forward to hosting the Indy Chamber’s Lagers and Leaders event this summer!”

To learn more about Lagers and Leaders, please visit the registration page. To plan your visit to TwoDEEP, check out their brews at twodeepbrewing.com.

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Market District

It’s undeniable, Hoosiers are passionate about their food.

Luckily for Central Indiana, Market District in Carmel bases its entire philosophy around a love of food. Market District is more than just a grocery store; it’s a gathering place for on-the-go people who value fresh, quality food in a convenient setting.

As a gathering place for the community, Market District offers an in-store restaurant, Table, which features dishes using products sold within the adjacent store. Table showcases Market District’s culinary artists, who are encouraged to use their creativity to expertly craft signature dishes, as well as the quality of products sold within the Market District store.

In addition to Table, Market District offers an event space that provides another opportunity to combine food and community. The space is open to the public for rental and also hosts Sunday brunch featuring food made from items in Market District. In fact, the Indy Chamber used this event space for our Business After Hours event in February 2016! In addition to its event space, Market District also offers full service catering, from classic offerings like fried chicken, boxed lunches, sushi, cheese and charcuterie platters and more, to fully customized event menus and service.

“Since we are new to the area, a partnership with the Indy Chamber allows us to understand the people in our community as well as connect and partner with other businesses to improve our neighborhood,” says Jim Griffith, executive store leader at Market District. “We are a cause-conscious organization that cares about our community, and an Indy Chamber membership allows us to grow our relationships with other cause-oriented businesses.”

Also, Market District’s freshly prepared foods department allows consumers who are on-the-go to pick up a quick and healthy lunch or bring a nutritious dinner home to their family. The in-house culinary artists that prepare the food are free to bring their individual styles to their creations, so you know you won’t get a typical, bland recipe!

Lastly, as the bread and butter of Market District, the grocery store provides endless selections of fresh fruits and vegetables, a vast seafood selection including a fresh “catch of the day,” a bakery featuring made-from-scratch items, a deli stocked with fresh cut meats, and an expansive alcohol assortment. Offering both local and non-local products, Market District stocks its products to please an educated palate.

“Moving into the Indianapolis market, we weren’t sure what exactly to expect,” explains Griffith. “It’s a more diverse area than what we thought it would be, with foodies who want more than a typical Midwest menu. We’ve learned that family and an active lifestyle is important to Hoosiers, and they are always willing to try new foods!”

As a transplant from Columbus, Ohio, Griffith has quickly fallen in love with the Central Indiana region.

“Downtown Indianapolis has always been a favorite destination of mine, even when I was still living in Columbus,” says Griffith. “It is such a walkable and entertaining city. There is great food, fantastic venues and good opportunities for anyone who lives here.”

The next time you are looking for a place to gather with friends or just explore by yourself, head over to Market District. To learn more about this one-of-a-kind culinary destination and opportunities to save money on your next trip to the store, visit www.marketdistrict.com.

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#WeAreIndy: Nine13sports

On-street bike lanes, the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, public greenways and trails…as Indy becomes more increasingly bike friendly, local non-profit Nine13sports is working harder than ever to ensure that the youth of today never lose their love for cycling.

Founded in 2012, executive director and founder Tom Hanley and his crew at Nine13sports utilize cycling as a tool for promoting youth health and fitness. Through their Kids Riding Bikes® program the team works with central Indiana schools to bring bikes to the classroom for a little friendly competition and physical fitness. The program gives students a chance to ride stationary bikes and use simulators to replicate a course that is reflective of an actual bike ride with inclines and declines.

Because Nine13sports partners with corporate sponsors, their services are free for any school that wishes to give their students this experience. Nine13sports seeks to get connected with at-risk children by focusing on underserved populations of the Indy region. In the small group setting that the simulators provide, Hanley and his team are able to spend quality one-on-one time with the students.

“Bikes are the ultimate equalizer. There is 100 percent participation rate,” Hanley states, “When cycling is turned into a game, the kids don’t realize they are working out. It’s a fun, engaging, and interactive way to get all kids moving.”

According to surveys the Nine13sports team conducts when they travel to schools, 10 percent of students have never ridden a bike before and one-third of the students don’t even own a bike. After pedaling on the simulators, kids are excited about biking on their own.

Starting at the Speak Easy, which he credits for helping his business grow, Hanley firmly believes Nine13sports succeeded because it started in Indy. Hanley is passionate about Indianapolis and the momentum of businesses like the Indy Chamber working to make it better.

“I really believe Indy is the best city in the country for young professionals. Indy is the only market where you can make an impact and get involved with shaping policies and decisions. In other cities, I wouldn’t have access to presidents and CEO’s like I do here,” Hanley says.

At the Indy Chamber, Hanley is involved in the Transportation, Infrastructure, and Education committee that is composed of forward thinkers that wish to see positive change in the community. As a young entrepreneur, Hanley is excited for what the next generation of leaders can do for Indy.

To other entrepreneurs and small business owners, Hanley offers this advice, “No matter what age you are, realize you need genuine mentors in your life, and you have to be genuine too. Nothing ever happens quick enough, and you have to accept that.”

To learn more about Nine13sports and to see how your business can work with them, visit www.Nine13sports.org.

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5 Reasons Indy is a Global Economy

May 24th is World Trade Day – time for the Indy Chamber to highlight our place in the global economy!

For many local employers, every day is a world trade day. Indianapolis companies do business in hundreds of countries, boasting nearly $15 billion in exports last year alone. Hundreds of foreign-owned firms have also made Indy a second home, creating good jobs for thousands of Hoosiers.

Indianapolis is the Crossroads of America and now, we’re also a crossroads for global business.

With World Trade Day just around the corner, here are 5 Reasons Indy is a Global Economy:

1. Global trade puts Indy to work – and boosts our paychecks!

More than 100,000 local jobs are supported by exports and foreign-owned employers. And these jobs pay an average of 20 percent higher wages than similar occupations in domestic companies. At a time when our local economy is working to tackle the challenges of rising poverty and falling incomes, globalization is growing our earning power.

2. Global business is smarter business.

One reason global companies pay employees more is that they invest heavily in research and development and new technologies and demand a more educated, productive workforce.

Foreign companies and exporters in the U.S. are four times more concentrated in what our partners at the Brookings Institution call advanced industries – cutting-edge sectors that rely on innovation like aerospace, pharmaceuticals, precision manufacturing, technology and energy.

Indy’s international businesses are also strongest in advanced industries – we’re making our mark on the world with lifesaving medicines, high-performance auto parts, the latest jet engines, breakthroughs in agriculture and more. Going global helps move us towards a higher-skill, higher-value economy.

3. Talent is our most important import.

Competing globally takes brainpower. Attracting new talent and growing our skilled workforce is a top economic development priority for the region but when it comes to international migration, Indy’s on a winning streak!

The Indy metro has added roughly 15,000 new foreign-born residents over the last three years, or just under a third of our total population growth. And since 2000, Indy has grown our international population more than 120 percent – among the fastest-growing large metro regions in the country.

People are an important part of the business climate, and global talent goes hand-in-hand with global trade and investment.

4. We’re beating the competition.

If you’re keeping score: Indianapolis ranks 23rd out of the top 100 regions in total exports (and 18th in exports as a share of our total economy).

When it comes to jobs, Indy is 24th in total export-supported jobs and 22nd in employment in foreign-owned companies.

And since Indianapolis is the 33rd-largest metro overall, all these stats mean we’re punching above our weight in the global economy.

5. With a world of opportunity, we have room to grow!

Even though international markets have been good to Indianapolis, there’s plenty of potential to do even better. Regional exports are driven by a handful of major global corporations; among mid-market business, we’ve barely scratched the surface. In fact, we’ve identified more than 1,200 mid-sized, homegrown companies in export-oriented industries that aren’t yet selling overseas.

It’s also time to diversify foreign investment. Just five large employers contribute 25 percent of Indy’s jobs in foreign-owned companies, and we’re more dependent on two investor countries (the UK and Japan) than other large cities.

We’re thinking bigger and planning ahead.

The Indy Chamber is creating a global trade and investment strategy, with help from the Global Cities Exchange, a joint project of the Brookings Institution and JPMorgan Chase, and a steering committee of regional business leaders, university experts and economic development professionals.

Get a preview of what we’re learning at World Trade Day.

Join us on May 24th – 5 days before the 500, find out how Indy is accelerating our global growth.

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The Month of May in Indy

One of the most exciting months to be a Hoosier has arrived! Here is what you need to know to celebrate May to the fullest.

May 5- Cinco de Mayo Grab yourself a margarita to celebrate Cinco de Mayo! It just so happens that Cinco falls on a Happy Hour Thursday on Georgia Street.

May 7- One America 500 Festival Mini-Marathon If you aren’t participating in the Mini, you could always be cheering the participants on!

May 10- Pancakes and Politics Transit in Indianapolis. It’s a big deal! See why and join the conversation at Pancakes and Politics.

May 21- Indy Brew Fest The 2nd Annual Indy Brew Fest will take place at Military Park on May 21st and will feature over 50 breweries, including Indy’s best breweries, as well as food trucks, music, lawn games and more.

May 24- World Trade Day Join global dignitaries and community leaders as they discuss international trade.

May 27- Carb Day Some people consider Carb Day a holiday. It might as well be, because Journey will be playing!

May 28- Legends Day If you’re a country music fan, Legends Day is the day you need to be at the track. Hear from Corey Cox, Chris Janson, and Blake Shelton!

May 28- IPL 500 Festival Parade The IPL 500 Festival Parade in downtown Indianapolis has grown to be one of the signature events held in the United States each year! Be a part of it this year.

May 29- 100th Running of the Indy 500 Be a part of the greatest spectacle in racing!

[indychamber]

#WhyILoveIndy

The Indy Chamber’s Annual Event focused on talent and the future of Indianapolis. The people have always been what makes Indianapolis great, and here are some sharing why they love the Circle City!

Billy K. “I first fell in love with Indy when I was attending Butler University. There is always something going on around the city whether it be a ballgame, a new exhibit at one of the museums, a happy hour on Georgia Street, or a concert at White River State Park!”

Danielle N. “I feel welcomed in Indy. It’s an inclusive city and there is always something to do! There is a lot of adventure here!” Holly B. “I moved to Indy 13 years ago. I loved it then because of the vibrancy and spirit of the city, and it has only gotten better and better!”

Ken R. “Indianapolis is the most progressive city in Indiana!” Cynth’ya R. “Indy is a place where a person can stretch their imagination! Whether a hobby or a corporate event, there’s something that draws people like no other city can. You don’t have to fit in, you can be yourself!”

Orion B. “I loved Indy before I moved here. As I visited, you could see the revival and progression of downtown. I had such a great impression of the city, I knew I had to come.”

Jessi F. “It’s so fun to be in a capital city and get all the big city benefits with a midwestern feel!”

Scott D. “It’s my hometown, and there is no place like it. There are good and bright people in Indy. The more I travel, the more I realize how lucky I am to live here!’ Bryan W. “Indy is the easiest, classiest, most well-rounded community in the United States. We have an awesome airport, great pro-sports teams, and phenomenal companies like Eli Lilly, DowAgro, and BKD, of course.”

Crystal R. “There is an everybody knows everybody feel in Indianapolis. It is like one big family! It’s my home.”

Taylor M. “There is so much opportunity in Indy. It’s a great city!” Will G. “I grew up in the country, so Indianapolis excites me. It’s a big city!” Afton W. “Indy has a big city feel!”

Bryan “I love Indy because I was born and raised here!”

Ronald F. “I love the way Indy supports small businesses. It is a great city to start a business in!” Latoya M. “I love Indy because it loves me!”

Matt I. “Indy is an easy place to live as a young person trying to make an impact.”

Steven S. “You can do anything in Indy!”

Vanessa W. “I love Indy because it is the perfect medium.  It has a big city feel but plenty of small town charm!”

Emily H. “One word. Hospitality. Indy people are happy people! You rarely see someone unwelcoming a visitor. Remember, Indy welcomes all! Oh, I’m also all about the food and Indy has some quality eats.”

Carol Ann S. “I love Indy because there is so much to do, see, and explore! Whether it’s going to one of our awesome breweries, sitting on a restaurant patio, or walking along the canal, I can always find something fun to do.”

[indychamber]

Go Green in Indy

Looking for ways to go green? In honor of Earth month, we’ve done some legwork for you so you can start down the path to living a greener, more sustainable lifestyle!

1. Volunteer at Keep Indianapolis Beautiful. Want to get your hands dirty? Help KIB clean up litter, build pocket parks, create green spaces, plant trees and flowers, and assist with other projects! Learn more here. 

2. Join Commuter Connect. Join a carpool and cut down on gas emissions, wear and tear on your vehicle, and traffic congestion! Sign up here. 

3. Get on board for mass transit.  Show public support for transit and urge your City-County Council to give voters a voice to make the Marion CountyTransit Plan a reality. Learn more here. 

4. Get a BlueIndy membership. Simple, convenient, economical and electric, BlueIndy offers Indy residents a chance to ditch their cars and pick up a car sharing membership! Learn more here. 

5. Go for a spin on a Pacers Bikeshare bike! Get your exercise and go green by biking around the city! Get more info here. 

Get together with other individuals dedicated to sustainability. Attend our Green Business Event on April 20! 

Is your organization dedicated to green business practices? Visit indychamber.com/greenbusiness to join our Green Business Initiative!

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[indychamber]

Hotel Tango Artisan Distillery

If bootleggers straight of the Prohibition Era could travel through time, a bottle of gin says they would end up at Hotel Tango Artisan Distillery. Reminiscent of days gone by, Hotel Tango is truly the one stop shop for sipping your favorite, local artisanal drink.

Opening their doors in 2014, Hotel Tango is the first disabled veteran owned distillery in the country and the first craft distillery in Indy. Returning home after three combat tours, former marine Travis Barnes took an interest in spirit distillation. Along with his closest friends he met in law school, Barnes noticed that Indiana liquor laws were changing to allow craft spirit manufacturers to sell directly to consumers, much like a brewery or winery. However, the artisan distiller’s permit being offered was only available for a limited time. With the time limit as incentive, Barnes turned to his friend Brian Willsey for business help.

When Barnes and Willsey first saw the building that is now Hotel Tango, they knew they had to have it. A former carriage house turned mortuary in Fletcher Place, Hotel Tango’s location is killer, all puns aside. Located right on the cultural trail, the building stands out as a rich piece of Indianapolis history. The fireplace in the center of the tasting room is a new welcome addition, along with the residence of local celebrity, Fletcher the Cat.

Opening its doors less than two years ago, Hotel Tango has already received accolades and medals for their spirits. After trial and error and consultation with experts, the team’s hard work is paying off. Barnes’ military background translates into his business style, with the team all jumping in where needed as a fully functioning unit.

“The hardest part about small business ownership has been facing the unknown. It is a new industry in Indy, and we are blazing a path for others to follow. We are really setting the standard. My favorite part has been starting with an idea, and seeing it through from conception to 19 people on the payroll. It’s been a wild ride,” Barnes says.

As a new business in Indianapolis, Hotel Tango joined the Indy Chamber to connect to the business community.

“As an Indy Chamber member, we have access to networking and introductions to the business community. The Indy Chamber is doing great things for Indy, leading the City in the right direction for the future,” Barnes and Willsey agree.

To those with an entrepreneurial spirit, the team at Hotel Tango gives some solid advice. “Just do it. Mistakes are inevitable. No one else can do it for you, You’ve got to figure it out on your own! Don’t talk about it, be about it.”

To learn more about Hotel Tango Artisan Distillery, please visit hoteltangowhiskey.com.

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