By: Kegan Schmicker, Tipton Mayor
May 4, 2026

In communities like Tipton, economic development has always been rooted in what we know best: agriculture, industry, and the people who make it all happen. Today, that local foundation is aligning in new and important ways with a more extensive regional and statewide strategy—one that positions Central Indiana and the State of Indiana for prolonged growth.

Governor Braun’s recent announcement of a $1 billion investment to grow agriculture, life sciences, and ag-tech industries emphasizes this moment. The initiative aims to create 100,000 high-wage jobs over the next decade while strengthening the connection between agriculture, innovation, and economic opportunity. With CIRDA serving as the regional steward, the success of this effort will depend on collaboration across communities of all sizes—including those like Tipton.

For us, this focus is not new. Tipton has long understood that our agricultural base is not just part of our history—it is central to our future. As we have developed our economic development strategies over the last two years, our focus has been on supporting agribusiness, strengthening supply chains, and positioning ourselves to benefit from growing opportunities in ag technology and related industries.

The difference now is scale and alignment.

Through a regional approach, the work happening in communities like Tipton connects directly to a larger ecosystem that includes global companies, research institutions, and growing innovation sectors. Indiana’s strength lies in this intersection—where agriculture, advanced manufacturing, and life sciences come together to create new investment and job opportunities.

For smaller communities, this creates a meaningful pathway forward. We are not trying to replicate what larger cities offer. Instead, we are building on our existing strengths—our land, our workforce, and our local industries—while guaranteeing we are part of a coordinated regional strategy that attracts talent and capital.

This is where CIRDA’s leadership is especially important. By coordinating regional priorities and connecting local efforts to statewide initiatives, CIRDA assures that communities like Tipton have a seat at the table and a role in shaping the region’s future. That alignment allows us to compete more effectively, support workforce development, and create opportunities that would not be possible working alone.

The opportunity ahead is clear. By investing in agriculture, innovation, and its connections, Indiana is charting a path that builds on its strongest assets. For Tipton, that means continuing to support our agricultural roots while embracing new technologies and partnerships that drive growth.

Success will not come from any one project or community. It will come from a shared commitment to working together—locally and regionally—to create a stronger, more resilient economy.

Tipton is ready to be part of that effort.