One Southern Indiana Builds a Deeper Bench

by 1si News1si Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

4100 Charlestown Rd.
New Albany, IN 47150
812.945.0266
www.1si.org

One Southern Indiana Builds a Deeper Bench.
Talented professionals committed to serving the region’s business and economic needs

NEW ALBANY, IN. (September 29, 2022)

As One Southern Indiana (1si) continues to extend its reach and influence throughout the region, the chamber of commerce and economic development organization has attracted a number of new team members. 1si’s mission is to help businesses innovate and thrive in the region. Its team of talented professionals serve businesses and the community in building upon the great momentum of economic vitality.

John T. Launius will be transitioning to the role of 1si’s Vice President, Director of Economic Development after serving Ivy Tech Community College in Sellersburg in both development and career coaching and employer connections positions.

“Ivy Tech Community College is thankful for the incredible impact John has made on our campus. His leadership and knowledge of workforce trends have been extremely helpful in moving our campus forward and he has done a tremendous job working with our donors and community stakeholders,” stated Dr. Travis Haire, Chancellor of Ivy Tech’s Sellersburg campus. “We are very excited to collaborate in his new role at One Southern Indiana as we collectively work to enhance our region’s quality of place and economic competitiveness.”

In his new role, John will direct activities focused on growing the business community, including business attraction, retention and expansion, as well as planning for future economic needs. Prior to serving in higher education, John worked in regional economic development activities for Greater Louisville, Inc.

Amber Miller has been promoted to the position of Director of Engagement after serving as 1si’s Manager of Events and Special Programs, where she excelled in expanding the organization’s offerings, including many new virtual options during the global pandemic. In her new position, Amber will be taking the lead on developing, building and maintaining relations with 1si’s investors, members and customers.

Jon Pollock joined the 1si team last month as the Director of Programs, Events and Groups. Jon has extensive experience in managing all aspects of public and private events from his previous positions, most notably with Indiana University Southeast and the Kentucky Derby Festival. Jon earned his Certified Festival and Event Executive credential through the International Festivals and Events Association in 2016.

Melissa Sprigler also came on board in August as the 1si Business Resources Coordinator, where she will interface with 1si members at events, programs and workshops, as well as managing the 1si Ambassador program and coordinating ribbon cuttings and groundbreakings for new businesses. Melissa most recently worked as the Business Manager for Clinique in Clarksville.

Vanessa Braswell joined the 1si team last week as the Operations Coordinator where she will use her customer service skills in addressing the needs of members, vendors and customers. Her teammates – or internal customers – will also benefit from her knowledge with database utilization and communications details. Vanessa comes to us most recently from Millennial Title after several years in the real estate profession.

Matthew Zicher will also join the 1si team as of October 1 as the organization’s Member Relationship Manager. In this role, Matt will focus on growing and retaining 1si’s members by connecting them to resources that will help them with their businesses. Matt most recently worked for Wetterer & Co, and at CSC, where he directed many aspects of event management at some of the region’s biggest events.

Wendy Dant Chesser, President and CEO of One Southern Indiana, enthusiastically noted, “We are excited about the economic opportunities on the horizon in Southern Indiana, and adding this talented group of professionals to our existing team gives us added capacity to maximize the growth we see ahead for our businesses and communities.”

About One Southern Indiana
One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area via the three pillars of Business Resources, Economic Development and Advocacy. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.

Contact:

Wendy Dant Chesser
President & CEO, One Southern Indiana
Wendy@1si.org
812-945-0266

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RxLightning to Expand with Headquarters in New Albany

by 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development
Southern Indiana technology company is positioned to transform patient care in the U.S.

NEW ALBANY, IN. (September 27, 2022)

In another sign of Southern Indiana’s growing appeal to the tech industry, RxLightning, an award-winning technology company, is establishing expanded headquarters in downtown New Albany, expecting to add up to 175 new jobs over several years paying nearly twice the average wage in Floyd County.  The company will invest heavily in software, hardware, and more in a three-story historic building at 227 Pearl Street, at the corner of Market and Pearl in New Albany.

RxLightning’s platform streamlines the specialty drug enrollment process for both doctors and patients, reducing paperwork and cutting the enrollment time from weeks to hours. The digitized, single solution, which is free for providers and patients, supports more than 1,200 specialty medications, helping patients get access to the treatments they need even faster. RxLightning has been named one of the fastest growing companies in Louisville by Louisville Business First, and the company received the tech product of the year and startup of the year awards at the 2022 TechPoint Mira Awards earlier this year.
“This is an incredibly exciting move for RxLightning,” said Julia Regan, co-founder and CEO of RxLightning. Our new expanded headquarters will allow us to continue our growth and work collaboratively to accelerate the speed at which patients get access to medicine they need.  The State of Indiana, the City of New Albany and One Southern Indiana have been amazing partners in this endeavor.  We considered other locations, but we’re thrilled to remain here in southern Indiana.”

Pending approval from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) board of directors, the IEDC will commit an investment in RxLightning of up to $4 million in conditional tax credits based on the company’s creation plans. The tax credits are performance-based, meaning RxLightning is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired. In addition, the City of New Albany offered RxLightning training grants totaling $120,000 equally divided over five years.

“This news represents another milestone for the city and the region,” said Jeff Gahan, Mayor of the City of New Albany. “We welcome RxLightning to our downtown as they continue to build on their success and growth.”

“RxLightning is a perfect example of how Indiana innovators are advancing the industries of the future,” said Indiana Secretary of Commerce Brad Chambers. “The company’s solutions, powered by skilled and hardworking Hoosiers, are helping patients access life-saving treatments. Indiana is a leader in medical devices and pharmaceuticals, and now we’re the ideal destination for growing health tech companies like RxLightning.”

Wendy Dant Chesser, President and CEO of One Southern Indiana said, “RxLightning CEO Julia Regan was selected last month as an Endeavor Entrepreneur through a unanimous vote at the 94th International Selection Panel (ISP) held in Greece, the first woman in the Midwest to achieve that honor.  Her company’s growth continues to be remarkable,

and her commitment to this region is a testament to the ongoing vitality of southern Indiana. As always, 1si has been delighted to be a part of this process, and looks forward to assisting in any way we can.”

About RxLightning

RxLightning was co-founded by CEO Julia Regan and CTO Brad Allen to create a world where every patient gets accelerated access to the therapies they need, through the creation of a single destination for specialty prescriptions that makes the enrollment process easy, automated and as seamless as possible.  The free-to-provider digital platform streamlines the specialty medication enrollment process in every therapeutic area to reduce paperwork, eliminate mistakes, streamline communication and accelerate the time to life-altering therapies for patients.

About One Southern Indiana

One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area via the three pillars of Business Resources, Economic and Advocacy. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.

Contact:     

Mary Jo Wallin-Orlowski
Director of Business Retention, Expansion and Talent
maryjo@1si.org
812-945-0266

Julia Regan
Founder and CEO, RxLightning
julia@rxlightning.com
1-855-485-0579

HealthTrackRx to Expand with Site in Clarksville

by 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HealthTrackRx to Expand with Site in Clarksville

Texas-based clinical laboratory plans to invest nearly $3.5 million in high-tech testing laboratory

NEW ALBANY, IN. (September 20, 2022)
Southern Indiana continues to expand its presence in the fast-growing medical technology industry as HealthTrackRx, the nation’s leading PCR laboratory, announces plans for a 10,000 sq. ft. facility at 706 East Lewis and Clark Parkway in Clarksville. In this initial facility, the Texas company projects a total capital investment of $3,463,244, which will result in up to 63 new full-time positions paying well above the average wage in Clark County, with additional expansion opportunity.

HealthTrackRx is the nation’s leading molecular PCR-based infectious disease laboratory. In a global environment threatened by growing antimicrobial resistance, rapid diagnoses matter. HealthTrackRx sets the pace for industry-leading laboratory operations through unparalleled turnaround time, yielding insights that mobilize accurate clinical decisions. With over 20 years in the clinical laboratory industry, HealthTrackRx provides services to thousands of clinicians nationwide.

“This is an important strategic investment for HealthTrackRx,” said Martin Price, CEO for the company. “As part of our commitment to delivering next day results to patients anywhere in the country, HealthTrackRx is building this new testing laboratory near UPS Worldport. The State of Indiana, the Town of Clarksville and One Southern Indiana (1si) have been terrific partners in helping us establish our presence in the region.”

Based on the company’s job creation plans, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) committed an investment of up to $725,000 in HealthTrackRx through incentive-based tax credits. The tax credits are performance-based, meaning HealthTrackRx is eligible to claim incentives once Indiana residents are hired. In addition, the Town of Clarksville is offering the company a five-year forgivable loan in the amount of $110,000.

“We couldn’t be more grateful that HealthTrackRx chose to grow their business in Indiana among a world of options,” said Ann Lathrop, IEDC executive vice president of global investment. “Indiana welcomes the company’s industry expertise and looks forward to supporting them as they provide high-tech, high-quality career opportunities for Hoosiers in southern Indiana.”

“This is a major milestone for the Town of Clarksville and for the region,” said Kevin Baity, Town Manager for the Town of Clarksville. “We look forward to working with the team at HealthTrackRx as they build on their success and establish a presence in southern Indiana.”

Wendy Dant Chesser, President and CEO of One Southern Indiana enthusiastically concurred, noting, “Southern Indiana is quickly becoming a hub for manufacturing and technology, including medical technology. The decision by HealthTrackRx to open a facility in Clarksville is added confirmation of the region’s appeal for companies like theirs. HealthTrackRx is a welcome addition to the impressive array of businesses who have chosen to locate or expand here. As always, 1si is delighted to be a part of this process and looks forward to assisting in any way we can.”

About HealthTrackRx
HealthTrackRx is the nation’s leading PCR-based infectious disease laboratory, delivering industry-leading testing turnaround times to healthcare providers nationwide. For more than 20 years, the company has enabled accurate clinical decisions through its testing platform, advancement in pathogen detection and identification, antimicrobial stewardship leadership, and value-based care programs. For more information, visit HealthTrackRx at healthtrackrx.com

About One Southern Indiana
One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area via the three pillars of Business Resources, Economic Development and Advocacy. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.

Contact:
Wendy Dant Chesser
President & CEO, One Southern Indiana
Wendy@1si.org
812-945-0266

Ben Favret
HealthTrackRx
ben.favret@healthtrackrx.com

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One Southern Indiana Partners with National Health Insurance Provider to Reintroduce Insurance Under ONE Health Plan for Members

by 1si News1si Press Release

NEW ALBANY, IN. (September 9, 2022)

One Southern Indiana and UnitedHealthcare announced the launch of 1si’s revitalized partnership program, Insurance Under ONE. By joining with a national carrier, this program makes health insurance affordable for member employers with two or more employees.

“While Insurance Under ONE is available to all members, we anticipate it will be companies with 50 or fewer employees who will benefit the most,” said Scott Thompson, UnitedHealthcare Director of Sales.  We’re proud to partner with 1si to bring this to their member companies.”

Health insurance is the top requested benefit employees want from their employers.  This plan, in a partnership created by 1si and the nation’s largest insurer UnitedHealthcare, will give 1si small business members access to big-business employee health benefits at competitive rates.  This plan has a robust provider network with access to physicians, healthcare professionals, and hospitals.

All 1si members, from the small business to the largest corporations, will have access to Insurance Under ONE, potentially covering as many as 170,000 individuals across the region. Insurance Under ONE will be available to market and sell for all insurance agents. 

“There is no greater challenge in business today than workforce attraction and retention,” said 1si President and CEO Wendy Dant Chesser.  “That’s really amplified for smaller companies.  Insurance Under ONE helps those businesses offer the health benefits they need to attract and keep good employees.  That’s why our team at 1si has made it such a priority — and why we’re delighted to partner with UnitedHealthcare to bring this crucial benefit to our members.”

About One Southern Indiana

One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area via the three pillars of Business Resources, Economic Development, and Advocacy. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.

 

Contact:         

Lisa Brooking

Chief Revenue Director

lisab@1si.org

812-945-0266

CyberDome America LLC considers $7.6 Million investment in Jeffersonville IN

by 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 31, 2022

4100 Charlestown Rd.
New Albany, IN  47150
812.945.0266
www.1si.org

CyberDome America LLC considers $7.6 Million investment in Jeffersonville IN

Cutting-edge programs could provide practical training, certifications, and cyber security solutions

JEFFERSONVILLE, IN – In yet another example of Southern Indiana’s rapidly growing status as a technology hub, CyberDome America LLC announced it is considering an investment of $7.6 million in Jeffersonville.   The company’s planned location at 1804-1806 East Tenth Street in Jeffersonville will serve as the main campus for a cybersecurity technology training academy, offering hands-on programs certified by established universities in this space. The proposed project plans to employ nearly 400 people that would also provide ‘security-as-a-service’ to regional industry.
Focused on filling a part of the gap of almost 3 million cybersecurity workers needed by US industry, CyberDome America will provide robust, hands-on skills in cybersecurity and digital technologies.  As the region continues to become a manufacturing powerhouse, demand for trained professionals who can set the pace in advanced cybersecurity, smart manufacturing, personalized healthcare devices, supply chain management and other technologies will only increase.  CyberDome America has positioned itself to provide those skills and train the next generation of digital professionals.
“The Southern Indiana region was at the forefront of traditional 20th century manufacturing and is now poised for digital transformation to 21st century enterprises,” said author and CyberDome America founder and CEO Suresh Sharma.  “Unfortunately, the curriculum in our schools and colleges is largely still academic.  Even our trade schools and community colleges are beginning to evolve to respond to this huge gap in workforce. It is important to recognize that a digital world needs cybersecurity to protect itself from hackers. New competencies in digital technologies are essential for 21st century industries. These will create a new wave of higher paying jobs too, especially in the area of cybersecurity.”

“CyberDome America is a welcome addition to the growing array of companies choosing Jeffersonville to locate or expand,” said Jeffersonville Mayor Mike Moore.  “This company’s decision to invest in an existing building on 10th Street shows that all parts of the City are benefiting from our work in creating the ideal business climate for the 21st century.  CyberDome America will greatly enhance our region’s technological capabilities and workforce, and we are excited about their growth potential.”  

Pending approval of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) board of directors, the IEDC will commit an investment in CyberDome America LLC of up to $5 million in the form of conditional tax credits based on the company’s job creation plans.

“Indiana continues to be laser-focused on making our state the best place for businesses like CyberDome America to launch and grow,” said Ann Lathrop, IEDC executive vice president of global investment. “Not only will the jobs they bring pay above the average Clark County wage, but the professionals they train will help other businesses across the state become more secure. These are the types of investments the state is working to secure as we build our economy of the future.”

Wendy Dant Chesser, president and CEO of One Southern Indiana, concurred.  “As automation and digital technology continue to drive the manufacturing boom across our region, cybersecurity has become a leading priority.  CyberDome America is a welcome addition to our portfolio of technology companies, and a leap forward in helping all our businesses prepare for an increasingly digital future.”  

ABOUT CYBERDOME AMERICA LLC

The company provides end-to-end cybersecurity solutions including workforce development for the 21st century. CyberDome’s hands-on programs create vocationally trained people that are essential to safely operate your business in a digital world. CyberDome also provides around the clock ‘cybersecurity-as-a-service’ for the specific needs of small-medium-enterprises (SMEs), healthcare, critical public infrastructure and utilities, local government and municipalities, as well as the food and beverage industries.  For more, visit cyberdomeusa.com

ABOUT ONE SOUTHERN INDIANA

One Southern Indiana was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to provide the connections, resources and services that help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area.  For more, visit 1si.org.

 

Contact:

Wendy Dant Chesser, President & CEO

One Southern Indiana

(812) 945-0266

Amatrol, Inc., Considers Expansion of Jeffersonville Location

by 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

Amatrol, Inc., Considers Expansion of Jeffersonville Location
Plan Calls for 30 New, Full-Time Positions by the End of 2025

JEFFERSONVILLE, IND. (July 27, 2022) – Today, officials from One Southern Indiana (1si), the chamber of commerce and economic development organization for Clark and Floyd counties, Ind., announced Amatrol, Inc.’s interest in expanding operations at an adjacent location in the North Port Business Centre at the former Key Electronics building at 2533 Centennial Boulevard, in Jeffersonville, Ind.

The proposed project would add 100,000 square feet or a 65 percent increase to the company’s current operations. The acquisition of the facility would accommodate the company’s growth in domestic and international markets, as well as the introduction of new product lines in smart automation and HVAC hands-on training equipment and e-learning software. Plans call for the hiring of an additional 30 full-time positions with wages above the Clark County average.

Amatrol, Inc., President Paul Perkins said, “Amatrol now has a plan which, with the support of local and state governments, will allow us to expand our facility to accommodate more clients in new and innovative ways. We are very energized about the possibilities and look forward to working with One Southern Indiana, the City of Jeffersonville and other partners to achieve this goal.”

Company officials appeared this evening before the Jeffersonville Redevelopment Commission to request a tax abatement for the proposed $8.5 million expansion project’s qualifying investment. If approved by the Jeffersonville City Council on Monday, August 1st, the tax abatement will allow Amatrol, Inc., to phase in its property taxes over time.

Jeffersonville Mayor Mike Moore said, “The City of Jeffersonville is very pleased to see the continued improvements and capital investment at Amatrol, Inc. We believe this expansion project is indicative of area manufacturers’ confidence in the region and a national trend to train and skill-up the workforce, in general. As a manufacturer of training equipment, we feel confident Amatrol’s continued growth is a good barometer for the stability of the area’s manufacturing sector.”

Amatrol, Inc., has its origins as a department of Dynafluid, founded by Don and Roberta Perkins in 1978. Incorporated in 1981, the company’s current president, Paul Perkins, is the son of the original founders. The company designs, develops and manufactures technical training systems, highly- interactive eLearning, hands-on simulators and other equipment and software to train entry-level and transitioning employees for many diverse industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, packaging, etc.

Based on the company’s job-creation plans, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) committed an investment of up to $250,000 in the form of incentive-based tax credits. The IEDC will also offer up to $50,000 from the Hoosier Business Investment (HBI) tax credit program based on the company’s planned capital investment in Indiana. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired and trained.

“We’re thrilled to see the success Amatrol, Inc., is having in Jeffersonville. As a state, we’ll continue to support the company’s growth in the years to come,” said Ann Lathrop, IEDC’s executive vice president of global investments. “This innovative company aims to transform the global workforce with its learning solutions and is making a positive impact in the community by offering quality career opportunities for Hoosiers.”

“Amatrol, Inc., is an internationally recognized, award-winning company that is not only a good community and philanthropic partner in Southern Indiana but also a representative of the best our business community has to offer,” said 1si President and CEO Wendy Dant Chesser. “We are so pleased to assist the company and its president, Paul Perkins, with their growth and will work to assist Amatrol in any way possible.”

About Amatrol, Inc.:
Amatrol is the world’s leader in skills-based, interactive technical learning. With a mission to “transform the global workforce one life at a time,” Amatrol creates innovative learning solutions for industry and education to equip technicians and operators with the skills they need to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing workplace. Based in Jeffersonville, Indiana, Amatrol is an ISO 9001:201- certified company that has won numerous awards such as the Business First Small Business of the Year and the President’s “E” Award for Exports by the United States Department of Commerce. For more information, visit www.amatrol.com.

About One Southern Indiana:
One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to provide the connections, resources and services that help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area.

Since its inception, the organization has evolved to include a three-prong approach to serve its members and investors. Business Resources, as the chamber side of the organization, encompasses membership, signature events and programs which support and encourage business growth; Economic Development works to grow the regional economy through the attraction of new commerce and assists with retention and expansion of existing businesses; Advocacy supports businesses at the government level by engaging in the initiatives to preserve, protect and promote a business friendly environment free of obstacles to growth and development of commerce. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Amatrol, Inc. – Paul Perkins – 812.288.8285; paul_perkins@amatrol.com
One Southern Indiana – 812.945.0266

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1si President and CEO Wendy Dant Chesser Named to Indiana 250

by 1si News1si Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 26, 2022

1si President and CEO Wendy Dant Chesser Named to Indiana 250

NEW ALBANY – Wendy Dant Chesser, President and CEO of One Southern Indiana, has been named to IBJ Media’s inaugural Indiana 250, a list of the most influential and impactful leaders across the state in business, not-for-profits, government, philanthropy, and community organizations. “Most often, the people on this list have been involved across many sectors of their communities — using their influence and experience in business to help foundations, arts organizations, economic development groups and more do their jobs even better” noted Nate Feldman, CEO of IBJ Media.

While others from the Southern Indiana region were recognized in various categories, Wendy was honored in the Civic Leadership category. “I’m truly honored to be included in this inaugural Indiana 250 class,” she said, “mostly because of the amazing company I’m in. The list is truly a who’s who of leaders who are making a difference across our state. It’s very gratifying to be part of such an extraordinary group of individuals.”

“Nobody who lives or work in Southern Indiana is surprised by Wendy’s inclusion in the Indiana 250,” said One Southern Indiana Board Chair Laurie Kemp. “Her passion, professionalism and leadership continue to transform our region for the better. We’re thrilled to see her recognized statewide.”
Honorees were chosen by the IBJ Media team, who looked for Indiana residents who are making a difference locally, regionally, or statewide in business, philanthropy or community (preferably in all three). The search excluded elected officials. Candidates were nominated by readers and viewers, were noted from serving on boards, or through conversations with business and economic leaders from all parts of Indiana. Other honorees with Southern Indiana ties include Norman E. “Ned” Pfau, Jr., Bill Shrewsberry and Jeffrey Harrison, among others.

IBJ Media is the publisher of Indianapolis Business Journal, a weekly newspaper and daily news site about the Indianapolis region; Indiana Lawyer, a bi-weekly newspaper and news site covering the state’s courts and legal community; and Inside INdiana Business, the statewide business news TV, radio and digital media.

One Southern Indiana was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to provide the connections, resources and services that help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area. For more, visit 1si.org.

For Additional Information:
Wendy Dant Chesser, CEcD | President, CEO
Wendy@1si.org | 812.945.0266

New partnership offers loans and expertise to small business borrowers.

by 1si News1si Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 8, 2022

 

New partnership offers loans and expertise to small business borrowers.

Program is a joint project of One Southern Indiana and Indiana Small Business Development Center

 

NEW ALBANY, IN – On June 30, small business borrowers in southern Indiana will have a new source of funds for growing their businesses.  The ONE Fund and the Small Business Navigator program represent a strategic partnership between One Southern Indiana and the Indiana Small Business Development Center.  The program offers business owners an all-inclusive resource for accessing the capital required for start-up and growth initiatives, as well as the education and advising resources necessary to build a strong, strategic and sustainable business.

 

The ONE Fund serves small business owners in the Indiana counties of Clark, Floyd, Jefferson, Scott and Washington with loan amounts ranging from $2,000 to $20,000 at an affordable interest rate equal to the Prime Rate plus 2%.  Repayment terms are two years for working capital loans, five years for machinery and equipment financing, and seven years for real estate / brick and mortar loans.

­

Advising Services provided under the Small Business Navigator Program include financial budgeting, bookkeeping, payroll, tax management, market research and business planning.  In addition, regular classes will be presented by industry experts for owners at every stage of business.

 

Wendy Dant Chesser, president and CEO of One Southern Indiana, noted.  “Southern Indiana has a wealth of financial institutions and lenders who do an excellent job serving our business community.  But some businesses, especially start-ups and very small companies, may not easily fit into standard lending guidelines.  The ONE Fund exists to assist those businesses in getting the financing they need to succeed.  As they build a solid foundation and repay those loans, they can be in a better position to be served by our region’s lenders.”

 

A total of $339,000 in funding for the new program came through contributions from a variety of sources, including Caesars Foundation of Floyd County, Washington County Economic Growth Partnership, the Town of Clarksville, the City of Jeffersonville, the Floyd County Commissioners and COVID Emergency Loan Payback. An additional grant from READI funds, if approved, will help cover administrative and operating expenses to maximize small business support.

 

Jon Myers, Regional Director for the ISBDC said, “This new initiative is a natural outgrowth of the very productive partnership we’ve enjoyed with One Southern Indiana, and dovetails perfectly with our mission to have a measurable impact on small businesses.  As a former small business owner, I know firsthand the challenges that small companies face.  We’re thrilled to have a part in offering this new and valuable resource to area entrepreneurs.”

 

One Southern Indiana was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to provide the connections, resources and services that help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area.  For more, visit 1si.org.

 

The Indiana Small Business Development Center was created to have a positive and measurable impact on the formation, growth and sustainability of small businesses in Indiana, and to help Hoosier Entrepreneurs start stronger, grow faster and work smarter.  For 35 years, from ten offices around the state, the Indiana SBDC has been helping small businesses start and grow in Indiana. In that time, they have assisted more than 50,000 Hoosier entrepreneurs in the creation of thousands of new businesses, tens of thousands of new jobs, and accessing more than $1 billion in capital to grow their businesses in Indiana.

 

 

For Additional Information:

Mike Fulkerson One Southern Indiana

MikeF@1si.org  |  812.945.0266

One Southern Indiana Economic Development Icon to Retire

by 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

Executive Vice President Matt Hall to step down after more than three decades of service.

NEW ALBANY (March 31, 2022) – One Southern Indiana (1si) officially announced today that Matt Hall, Executive Vice President and Director of Economic Development, will retire from his position on April 15, 2022.  Hall has devoted 32 years to 1si and its predecessor, the Southern Indiana Economic Development Corporation, and has led the economic development team since 1si was formed in 2006. 

Since the inception of 1si, Matt Hall has been involved in a staggering 203 successful projects, from new companies to relocations and expansions, creating over 17,000 new jobs which pay over $731 million in wages ANNUALLY.  Those dollars are spent throughout the community, creating economic growth opportunity for all businesses.  Additionally, local residents benefit from the $2.1 billion in tax revenue generated by these companies, enhancing the quality of life for the community. 

“Matt’s impact on the business landscape in Southern Indiana has been enormous, and the ripple effect of his efforts and energy will continue to benefit Southern Indiana residents for decades to come,” said Wendy Dant Chesser, 1si President & CEO.  “He has been a pivotal figure in the location of many of the area’s major employers, fueled by his commitment to selling our community as the best option for growth and his dedication to attracting quality jobs to our area that pay living wages.  He certainly deserves our utmost appreciation for his decades of service.”

1si will host a recognition event for Matt in June, with details to be determined.  Chesser said that 1si has begun its search for Hall’s successor, with the goal of having that person in place by May 15.

One Southern Indiana was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to provide the connections, resources and services that help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area.  For more, visit 1si.org.

For Additional Information:

Wendy Dant Chesser, CEcD  |  President, CEO

Wendy@1si.org  |  812.945.0266

Resident Home Plans Capital Investment at River Ridge

by 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

4100 Charlestown Rd.
New Albany, IN 47150
812.945.0266
www.1si.org

Resident Home Plans Capital Investment at River Ridge

The project will bring 100 new jobs to the region

Jeffersonville, Ind. (March 24, 2022) – The boom in businesses choosing to locate in southern Indiana continues unabated with the news that Resident Home Inc., an e-commerce provider of digitally native brands in the mattress and home goods market including Nectar Sleep and DreamCloud, intends to open a Resident Mattress Manufactory (ReMM) facility at 100 Logistics Avenue in River Ridge Commerce Center in Jeffersonville.

The investment will include building lease payments and building improvements and state-of-the-art machinery and equipment. The space will provide 300,000 sq. ft. to accommodate the company’s manufacturing and distribution needs and will result in the addition of up to 100 full-time employees over five years, paying well above Clark County’s average wage.

“We’re very excited about our decision to locate operations in southern Indiana,” said Matt Clift, Executive Vice President of Operations for Resident. “This facility in the River Ridge Commerce Center will provide us with the capacity to meet our growing demand. We’ve been impressed with the ongoing collaboration among the State of Indiana, the City of Jeffersonville, River Ridge and One Southern Indiana to create an environment that makes sense for our business. We look forward to building our workforce with steady, good-paying positions, and invite all interested applicants to visit https://www.residenthome.com/careers/ to learn more.”

Based on the company’s job creation plans, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) committed an investment in Resident Home Inc. in the form of incentive-based tax credits. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired. In addition, as the River Ridge Commerce Center is an Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ), the company will receive an investment deduction on both real and personal property taxes. Duke Energy has also offered additional incentives.
“Indiana’s central location, infrastructure investments and business-friendly climate make the Hoosier state the perfect place for businesses like Resident,” said Ann Lathrop, executive vice president of global investments for the IEDC. “Resident is a welcome addition to the growing River Ridge Commerce Center, which is now home to more than 70 businesses, as the company continues to build its Midwest customer base and create quality jobs for Hoosiers.”

“We’re very excited Resident chose River Ridge for their facility,” said Jerry Acy, executive director with the River Ridge Development Authority. “Their decision to invest here highlights the unique benefits of River Ridge, our region and its workforce, and is yet another milestone in our continued success.”

“We’re thrilled to welcome Resident to the dynamic roster of companies at River Ridge,” said Jeffersonville Mayor Mike Moore. “This announcement demonstrates Resident’s commitment to Jeffersonville and our exceptional local workforce. I look forward to many years of success and growth for our friends at Resident.”

Wendy Dant Chesser, president and CEO of One Southern Indiana said, “Once again, Southern Indiana has competed head-on with locations in other states and emerged as the smart choice. With the amenities of River Ridge, a stellar education network, world-class infrastructure and a strong Hoosier workforce, our region offered everything Resident needed to bring these good-paying jobs to Southern Indiana. As the fastest-growing direct-to-consumer brand in their market, they’re an exciting addition to the vibrant portfolio of industries in this area. As always, 1si is ready to assist them in any way we can.”

About Resident®
Resident Home is an industry-leading, digitally native house of brands in the mattress and home goods category. The company’s award-winning products provide unmatched comfort to over 2 million happy sleepers and is top ranked among consumers and the media. Nectar and DreamCloud award-winning products are available on the company’s online direct to consumer channels, as well as across a wide network of premium retail partners.

About One Southern Indiana
One Southern Indiana was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to provide the connections, resources and services that help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area. For more, visit 1si.org.

About IEDC
The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) is charged with growing the State economy, driving economic development, helping businesses launch, grow and locate in the state. Led by Secretary of Commerce Brad Chambers, @SecChambersIN, and governed by a 15-member board chaired by Governor Eric J. Holcomb, @GovHolcomb, the IEDC manages many initiatives, including performance-based tax credits, workforce training grants, innovation and entrepreneurship resources, public infrastructure assistance, and talent attraction and retention efforts. For more information about the IEDC, visit iedc.in.gov.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Gil Efrati
Chief Marketing Officer
gil@residenthome.com

Wendy Dant Chesser
President and CEO
One Southern Indiana
Wendy@1si.org
812.945.0266

Melissa Thomas
IEDC
mthomas@iedc.in.gov
317.750.4792

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