Posts in category: 1si Press Release

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

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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Economic development sets record pace set in 2021 in capital investment and new jobs.

NEW ALBANY, IND. (January 19, 2022) — One Southern Indiana ended 2021 with its 200th economic development announcement, thanks in large part to the red-hot pace of new projects finalized during the year.  The fourteen projects announced over the course of 2021 alone added up to a total capital investment in southern Indiana of well over half a billion dollars.  

Just as impactful are the new jobs being created.  As these projects are completed, the region will add as many as 2,111 new positions, the vast majority of which pay well above the average wage in the region, for total additional estimated payroll in excess of $118 million annually.

“One of the most telling things about this,” noted One Southern Indiana Executive Vice President Matt Hall, “is that the vast majority of new capital investment comes from existing companies expanding their footprint here.  That says they’re finding the workforce, infrastructure, amenities and business climate they need to succeed, all here in southern Indiana.”

Wendy Dant Chesser, president and CEO of One Southern Indiana, concurred.  “Our mix of projects from both existing businesses and new additions to the region tells me that we’re doing a lot of things right.  Nearly half of the job growth we’ll see from these projects comes from our existing companies choosing to grow right here.  The other half comes from companies who have become aware of our reputation as a business-friendly region with a strong focus on quality of life.  The recent news that we were awarded the maximum $50 million READI grant from the state only reinforces that.”   

Laurie Kemp, who serves on One Southern Indiana’s board of directors and chairs its Economic Development Council, also sees strength in the array of industries those projects represent.  “This year alone, we were able to announce expansion by or attraction of companies in industries from liquor, labels, logistics and digital communications to manufacturing of precision components, automotive interior components, automotive structural supports and parts, and much more.  That speaks volumes about our mix of logistic ease, infrastructure, talent and more.” 

The totals for 2021 include the largest project in One Southern Indiana’s 15-year history in terms of capital investment (over $400 million) and a tie for the largest in terms of job creation (1,000).  At the very end of the year, yet another project was announced, bringing the total for the organization to 201 projects since its founding. 

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, President and CEO, One Southern Indiana
Wendy@1si.org |  812.945.0266

New Albany, Ind. (February 18, 2022) – Southern Indiana continues to be an excellent region for commerce, as Cimtech, Inc. announced its intention to expand its corporate headquarters at 325 Park East Boulevard in New Albany.  The company plans to invest $2.3 million over the next ten years in equipment and property improvements.  The project will increase their building footprint by 13,900 square feet while increasing the number of production positions by five over the next several years.  These will be quality positions with compensation above the average for Floyd County.

“We are very excited to expand our headquarters in southern Indiana,” said Jesika Young, Team Member and CEO of Cimtech, Inc. “We were looking to increase our footprint at our current location which will allow us to grow aggressively and attract top talent as we continue to build our brand.  The City of New Albany and One Southern Indiana have been critical in assisting us in achieving this for our company’s future as a manufacturing solution provider.”

“New Albany continues to have the reputation for retaining dynamic companies choosing to expand operations in our great city.  Cimtech Inc.’s approved incentives from the Common Council is further proof our hard work and commitment to business are paying off for the city and the region,” said New Albany Mayor Jeff Gahan, “I am excited about the company’s decision to invest in their future here and look forward to many years of success and growth for our friends at Cimtech.”

Wendy Dant Chesser, president and CEO of One Southern Indiana, said, “Cimtech expanding in southern Indiana at its current corporate headquarters speaks volumes about the company’s dedication to its team members, products and our region.  Cimtech’s dynamic manufacturing production and distribution serve not only our area but also regions throughout the United States.  1si looks forward to our partnership with the Cimtech team to ensure their continued success.”

About Cimtech

Cimtech is a family-owned, team-operated company established in 1975 and headquartered in New Albany, Indiana since 1992.  Their mission is to be the premier solution provider to manufacturers that is supported by a team of dedicated, experienced engineers, machinists, and fabricators with over 750 combined years of experience.  They are nationally recognized as a top ten precision manufacturer providing solutions to industries across the United States, which include the Department of Defense, HVAC, food and beverage, rail, automotive, medical, aerospace, and industrial businesses.

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 www.1si.org

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CONTACTS:

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

Jesika Young
Team Member and CEO
Cimtech, Inc.
Jesika@cimtechmachine.com
812.948.1422

$408 million Phase I investment to result in over 360 new Hoosier jobs

CLARK COUNTY, Ind. (December 22, 2021)

Southern Indiana continues its streak of blockbuster economic development news as Sazerac Company, a distilled spirits producer and bottler, announced its intention to substantially expand its presence in southern Indiana with the construction of an expansive new facility in Clark County.  With a capital investment of approximately $408,468,000, the new facility will be built on 1,400 undeveloped acres at 12200 Highway 62 in Charlestown. 

The site, yet to be named, will result in up to 369 new full-time positions over five years, paying well above the average Clark County wage, including both hourly skilled labor and salaried support staff.

“This is an incredibly exciting project for us,” said Jeff Conder, vice president of manufacturing, Sazerac. “The State of Indiana, the Clark County Council, the Clark County Commissioners and One Southern Indiana have been amazing strategic partners through this process.  We’re thrilled to increase our manufacturing footprint and our workforce with steady, good paying jobs, with wages at or above the Clark County average.”

Pending approval by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) board of directors, the IEDC will commit an investment in Sazerac of Indiana LLC (parent of Northwest Ordinance Distilling) of up to $3.5 million in the form of incentive-based tax credits over a 10-year period based on the company’s job creation plans and up to $3 million in redevelopment tax credits based on the company’s investment plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim credits once employees are hired and investments are made. 

The Clark County Council and Clark County Commissioners are scheduled to vote on final approval of the company’s local incentives today, with the project contingent upon approval.

“Indiana’s pro-business environment offer companies like Sazerac the ideal place to thrive,” said Ann Lathrop, executive vice president of global investments for the IEDC. “We’re thrilled to see Sazerac growing with the Hoosier state, investing in its second Indiana operations and creating quality career opportunities.”

“This news represents another major milestone for the county and the region,” said Jack Coffman, president of the Clark County Commissioners.  “We look forward to working with the team at Sazerac as they continue to build on their success and enjoy continued growth in southern Indiana.  Clark County continues to make our focus on infrastructure development to attract new business and assist existing businesses to grow.”

“We’re thrilled that Sazerac has chosen Clark County to expand its presence in southern Indiana,” concurred Barbara Hollis, president of the Clark County Council.  “Their investment is an enormous vote of confidence in the county and in the region’s hard-working Hoosiers.”

Wendy Dant Chesser, President and CEO of One Southern Indiana said, “There’s nothing like ending the year on a high note.  Since repurposing the former General Mills plant in New Albany, Sazerac has expanded its capacity at that location multiple times.  Their announcement to build a site in Clark County reinforces their commitment to the region and significantly adds to the growing 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 Sazerac
Sazerac is one of America’s oldest family owned, privately held distillers with operations in the United States in Louisiana, Kentucky, Indiana, Virginia, Tennessee, Maine, New Hampshire, South Carolina, Maryland, California, and global operations in the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, India, Australia and Canada. For more information on Sazerac visit https://www.sazerac.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 and Advocacy. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.

Contact:

Allen Howie
Marketing and Communications
allenh@1si.org
502-644-8920

Amy Preske
PR Manager
Sazerac
apreske@sazerac.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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

Vsimple Chooses Downtown New Albany for Its Headquarters and Expansion

Project could bring up to 70 new jobs to area

NEW ALBANY, IN. (November 08, 2021)
Southern Indiana continues to be a magnet for business, as Vsimple announced its intention to relocate its corporate headquarters to a facility at 318 East Fourth St. downtown New Albany. The company plans to invest more than $1.8 million in improvements, lease payments, equipment, hardware and software. The move will create 70 full-time, salaried positions by 2025, with a focus on research and development, sales and marketing, and customer success. These are high-paying positions with compensation well above the average wage for Floyd County.

“Vsimple is challenging the status quo in so many ways; choosing the space we did in New Albany, Indiana really fits the way we operate,” said Buddy Bockweg, CEO and co-founder of Vsimple. “We want to be a tentpole in this community for many years to come and are excited about the numerous advantages within it, including a large pool of talent.”
Based on the company’s job creation plans, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) committed an investment in Vsimple of up to $1.1 million 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. The company will also request $120,000 in training grants to be considered by the New Albany Redevelopment Commission at its meeting on November 9.

“Indiana’s reputation as a hub for innovation continues to grow as high-tech companies like Vsimple choose our state for their headquarters and continued expansion,” said Dave Roberts, executive vice president of entrepreneurship and innovation for the IEDC. “The state of Indiana is placing an enhanced focus on supporting entrepreneurial companies and growing our tech ecosystem, and we are thrilled to support Vsimple and help the company achieve even more in the years to come.”

“New Albany continues to build a reputation for creating the atmosphere and infrastructure that are essential to attracting and retaining dynamic companies. Vsimple’s announcement is further proof that our hard work and commitment are paying off for the city and the region,” said New Albany Mayor Jeff Gahan. “I am excited about the company’s decision and look forward to many years of continued success and growth for our friends at Vsimple.”

Wendy Dant Chesser, president and CEO of One Southern Indiana said, “The fact that Vsimple chose southern Indiana for their corporate headquarters and future growth speaks volumes about our region, our workforce and our leadership. Vsimple’s focus on software solutions to streamline internal processes makes them an ideal fit for the dynamic manufacturing and distribution base in this area and beyond. As always, 1si looks forward to working with them in any way we can to help ensure their continued success.”
About Vsimple

Vsimple is a leader in the Software as a Service (SaaS) space, providing end-to-end systems for manufacturers and distributors encompassing record management, internal coordination, customer communication and data insights. Learn more at www.vsimple.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 taken a three-pronged approach to serving 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.

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.

Contact:
Allen Howie
Marketing and Communications
One Southern Indiana
allenh@1si.org
(502) 644-8920

Buddy Bockweg
CEO
Vsimple
buddy.bockweg@vsimple.com
(812) 909-6683

Melissa Thomas
Media Relations Manager
Indiana Economic Development Corporation
mthomas@iedc.in.gov
(317) 750-4792

Project to bring 1,000 new jobs to the region

Jeffersonville, Ind. (September 17, 2021) Communications Test Design, Inc. (CTDI), a leader in the rapidly growing communications, mobility, and consumer devices service industries, announced its intention to open a new location at 400 River Ridge Parkway in Jeffersonville.

The $19.7 million investment will include $4.6 million for building improvements and $15.1 million for new machinery and equipment. The space will provide 702,800 sq. ft. to accommodate the company’s rapid growth. It will result in the addition of up to 1,000 full time employees over five years, paying above Clark County’s average wage.

“We’re very excited to establish a presence in southern Indiana,” said Toby Booker, General Manager of Real Estate for CTDI. “This new facility in River Ridge Commerce Center will provide the additional capacity to meet our increased demand. The State of Indiana, the City of Jeffersonville, River Ridge and One Southern Indiana have all collaborated to create an environment that is very conducive to business. We look forward to building our workforce with steady, good paying positions, and invite all interested applicants to visit www.ctdi.com to learn more.”

Based on the company’s job creation plans, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) committed an investment into Communications Test Design Inc.’s project of up to $11.8 million in the form of incentive-based tax credits. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once eligible employees are hired.

“It’s an exciting day for Indiana as CTDI commits to growing here and providing up to 1,000 jobs,” said Jim Staton, SVP and chief business development officer for the IEDC. “We look forward to continuing to build with CTDI and their partners in the future and are confident our high-quality workforce will ensure their success here for years to come.”
“We’re very excited that CTDI chose River Ridge for their facility,” said Jerry Acy, executive director with River Ridge Development Authority. “Their investment here marks a commitment to the region and its workforce, and another milestone in the continued success of River Ridge and southern Indiana.”

The company will be realizing tax benefits through River Ridge’s Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ). By locating within the UEZ, the company will be allowed to phase in its property taxes over time.

“CTDI is a wonderful addition to the dynamic roster of companies at River Ridge,” said Jeffersonville Mayor Mike Moore. “This announcement is exciting news for Jeffersonville and our local workforce, and demonstrates CTDI’s commitment to the city and the region. I look forward to many years of continued success and growth for our friends at CTDI.”
Wendy Dant Chesser, president and CEO of One Southern Indiana said, “With existing operations in South Bend, CTDI already understands the benefits of a Hoosier workforce. Their decision to locate a facility here in southern Indiana is a huge vote of confidence for the region. CTDI’s commitment to global innovation, service excellence and outstanding career opportunities makes them a valued addition to the vibrant array of industries in this area. As always, 1si is prepared to assist them in any way we can.”

About Communications Test Design, Inc.
CTDI is a full-service global engineering, repair and logistics company providing best-cost solutions to the rapidly growing communications, mobility, and consumer devices service industries. They specialize in forward and reverse logistics bolstered by industry leading testing technology and repair/refurbishment services with a commitment to providing quality services and offering excellent career opportunities. CTDI provides end-to-end service through four divisions: STB/CPE, Mobile & Consumer Electronics, Network Services, and Product / Supply. Their customers include the major telecom carriers, cable service providers and major OEM’s from around the world. CTDI is headquartered in West Chester, PA and supports an expanding customer base with more than 19,000 employees in 100 facilities worldwide, including operations in South Bend, IN.

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 taken a three-pronged approach to serving 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.

Contact:
Allen Howie
Marketing and Communications
allenh@1si.org
502-644-8920

Leslie Wagner
Senior Principal
Ginovus
leslie@ginovus.com

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