Grant County Celebrates Community Investment and Growth at Annual Economic Impact Appreciation Awards
The Grant County Economic Growth Council’s (GCEGC) annual Economic Impact Appreciation Awards celebrated significant local investments and partnerships that have advance economic development across the county.
GCEGC Director Chuck Binkerd, in his first year as director and over 26 years in the community, praised the nearly one billion dollars in investment—from small businesses to major corporations—flowing into Grant County over the last two years.
Partnerships Fuel Growth and Community Support
“Every dollar invested plays a vital role in our county’s prosperity,” Binkerd stated, highlighting the importance of partnerships between businesses, nonprofits, and local government in fostering a supportive economic environment. The council has collaborated with institutions like Ivy Tech Community College, Indiana Wesleyan University, Taylor University, and economic development partners on workforce development, infrastructure, and quality-of-life projects to attract and retain businesses and residents.
Local officials and Growth Council board members were also recognized for their commitment to shaping a supportive environment for new and established businesses in Grant County.
Christie Pulley, GCEGC board president, echoed the value of recent investments, stating, “When we invest in Grant County, we're investing in a future where our traditions and entrepreneurial spirit grow hand-in-hand. Every new storefront, every community event, and every revitalized building is a step toward a stronger, more connected Grant County,” said Pulley.
From small business startups like the Boutique in Swayzee to the new hospital in Gas City, to major investments at local universities and industries in Van Buren, Upland, and Marion, Grant County is on the move. With major new developments underway, this momentum is pushing the communities forward into a bright future.
This year's Grant County, Indiana Economic Impact Appreciation Award recipients include:
Afena Federal Community Union’s administrative headquarters at 935 N. Baldwin Ave. in Marion provides Grant County residents with essential, accessible banking that promotes financial growth and stability. The nearly 10,000-square-foot North Marion branch features state-of-the-art interactive banking technology. Afena is also the county’s sole Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI).
Based at 1626 S. Joaquin Dr. in Marion, Agricor is a vital economic contributor, producing high-quality corn products, promoting sustainable agriculture, and creating jobs. Currently employing 70-75 staff with an annual payroll exceeding $4.5 million, Agricor recently invested $1.9 million in facility upgrades and $8 million in new equipment to enhance processing, sanitation, and safety.
Located at 812 S. Washington St., Marion, Affordable Housing and Community Development Corporation strengthens Grant County by providing safe, affordable housing, promoting neighborhood stability, and fostering economic inclusivity. Current projects include Plaza Green, repairs to 54 homes in Marion, Evergreen Homes, and the Modlin project, a former print shop at 25th and S. Washington St.
Amoco built a new bp petrol station located at 138 S. 10th, St. in Gas City with a range of petrol and diesel fuels. Services include earnify pay for fuel, restroom, 24-hour convenience, and all major payment cards are accepted.
Opening at 118 E. Main St. in Gas City in March this year, Brew Life offers a unique coffeehouse experience, fostering community engagement and supporting local artisans.
Located at 3701 S. Adams St., Marion, Cafe Valley is investing over $5 million in facility expansion, adding high-speed production equipment for 12- and 24-count mini cupcake lines. This expansion will create 83 jobs, with starting wages of $15 per hour for the first shift and $17 per hour for the second and third shifts.
Founded by Ty Lemming, Caladin Construction opened at 1837 S. Branson St. in Marion this September, providing commercial construction, design, and renovation services across the county.
Located at 2724 S. Carey St., Marion, Carey Services collaborated with local architect Halstead and contractor JGBowers on a $2.5 million renovation to establish the Empower Academy. Carey Services has also invested millions in other community projects, prioritizing local businesses to strengthen community ties.
Cedar Creek Manor acquired a new property at 725 W. 50th St., Marion. They offer maintenance-free assisted living with apartment homes to met every budget.
Clear Choice Chiropractic moved to 1105 N. Western Ave., Marion, and renovated the location. Dr. Jacob Schlosser is grateful to serve Grant County, and is excited to treat patients with Chiropractic care in the Marion, Indiana office.
Community School of the Arts, located at 305 S. Adams St., Marion, recently completed $265,000 in renovations funded by a capital campaign and a Lilly Endowment grant. Improvements included a revitalized south wall and interior updates as part of the Strengthening Youth Programs initiative.
Rayme and Heather Swan, owners of the Culver's at 2307 S. Western Ave., Marion, completed a full remodel in 2024. Over their decade-long ownership, the Swans have provided competitive-wage jobs for local residents, including students.
Fastpace Health Urgent Care opened a new facility at 3719 S. Western Ave., Marion, next to Harbor Freight. Serving the communities of Marion, Michaelsville, Gas City and surrounding areas, we provide a vital health resource for those seeking immediate medical attention without the need for an ER visit. Our clinic is open seven days a week with extended hours, ensuring that quality healthcare is always within your reach.
Gas City Performing Arts Center located at 100 Auditorium Dr., the new 1,830-seat venue, funded by a READI grant and ARPA funds, represents a $20 million investment. Completed in 16 months, it now hosts a variety of community events.
The General Motors facility at 2400 W. Second St., Marion, has invested over $491 million in expansion. This year, GM was inducted into the Indiana Manufacturers Hall of Fame for its ongoing contributions.
Halstead Architects has invested $12 million in revitalizing Ridley Tower, contributing to Marion’s ongoing development.
Hands of Hope, a part of Radiant Health, located at 101 S. Washington St., Marion, these organizations transformed a neglected lot in Jonesboro into vibrant greenspace through a $2.2 million project in collaboration with local leaders. This investment has driven economic and social revitalization in the area.
The Hive Mind Market continues to create opportunities and spaces for entrepreneurs in Grant County.
JMAX acquired Idyl Wyld Roller Palace at 4013 S. Meridian St., Marion, from the Trueman family. JMAX has invested in maintaining the beloved facility and completed several new home builds in Grant County.
Indiana Health Center broke ground on a new location at 3710 S. Western Ave., Marion, in September 2023. The facility will feature 18 exam rooms, expanding local healthcare access.
Indiana Wesleyan University, located at 4201 S. Washington St., Marion, IWU recently awarded $1.5 million in grants to develop a new building at 100 S. Washington St., which will house six nonprofits, contributing to downtown revitalization.
Lola’s at the Inn opened in February 2023 with a $150,000 investment, this new coffeehouse at 3910 S. Washington St., Marion, offers specialty coffee, teas, and baked goods in a welcoming atmosphere.
Marion Health East located at 911 Marion Health Dr., Gas City, the new facility opened this year following an $80 million investment. It provides 100 jobs and expanded healthcare access for Grant County residents.
Mattress 4 Less opened at 116 E. Main St., Gas City.
Meijer located at 3820 S. Western Ave., Marion, Meijer completed a major remodel in 2024, enhancing the shopping experience and supporting local employment.
Miller’s Merry Manor updated their facility at 505 N. Bradner Ave., Marion. They provide short-term to long-term nursing care and rehabilitation therapy.
Mississinewa Cigar Lounge located at 1038 E. Main St., Gas City, the lounge upgraded its bar and enclosed the deck with large movable glass walls.
NearSpace Launch, Inc. (NSL) located at 79 Railroad St., Upland, NSL recently renovated a historic building for mixed-use, with plans for a STEM makerspace funded through a $50,000 crowdfunding effort. This expansion supports local economic growth and STEM education in Grant County.
Neveria Tropical, Marion’s first Mexican ice cream shop, opened in June 2023 at 1341 W. Gillespie St. Seventeen-year-old Stephanie Treto invested $60,000 in this venture.
Paris Event Center and Boston Hill Event Center renovated as beautiful event spaces for the Grant County community, located at 225 S. Adams St. and 428 S. Washington St., Marion, respectively.
Patent Pending Shop opened in September 2023 at 33 N. Main St., Upland, this shop offers unique gifts and home goods, alongside interior design services by Sarah James, who has 23 years of dedication to the Grant County community.
Phil & Cheryl’s Grill built a new restaurant at 800 E. Main St., Gas City with regular specials for a hometown breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
BDP Investment Firm, based in Marion and founded by Phil Bowers, Jon Pruesz, and Trent Dailey, has renovated multiple apartments throughout Grant County, aiming to improve the community one property at a time.
Rookie’s Ink opened a one-stop destination for top-notch apparel printing, embroidery, and promotion services at 108 E. Main St., Gas City.
Runnings Store celebrated its grand opening at 1401 W. 26th St., Marion.
Sassy Diva Sisters expanded into a brick-and-mortar store at 108 S. Washington St., Swayzee, with a $70,000 investment.
Seamless Autoworks opened a local one stop shop at 401 S. 1st St., Gas City for all of your detailing, paint correction, ceramic coating, paint and body, window tint, custom installs, aftermarket parts and accessory installation.
Steve Mitchell’s Custom Carts relocated and renovated at 415 W. Main St., Gas City.
T-3 Investments completed the restoration and renovation of a historic building at 232 Main St., Gas City.
Taylor University and 1846 Enterprises, located in Upland, Taylor University and 1846 Enterprises advance the $54.5 million Main Street Mile Initiative to strengthen the community, funded by a $30 million Lilly Endowment grant and other investments.
Shannon Thompkins opened Tha Taste, a new restaurant and bar at 3304 S. Washington St., Marion, and purchased Folkie’s, a local tavern at 117 S. Branson St., Marion.
The Covenant Place created a new wedding and event venue at 1278 S. 350 E., Marion, near Shiloh Park, with a $600,000 investment.
The Wellness Refinery, located at 4711 S. Adams St., Marion, this yoga studio opened in 2023 and was purchased by a new owner in 2024 with a mission to promote wellness and positivity.
Weaver Popcorn invested $22 million in its Van Buren operations at 408 W. Landess St., adding high-tech jobs and advanced packaging and food processing technology.
Wesleyan Health and Rehab completed facility updates and added an on-site dialysis unit at 729 W. 35th St., Marion.
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