Indiana is a great place to call home. What makes Indiana so great? From our low taxes and cost of living to our Hoosier values, our state attracts people from all over the world. Indiana is also the best in the Midwest and fifth in the nation for doing business based on our fiscal stability, work-based learning programs and incentives.
According to U.S. News and World Report in 2019, Indiana ranked second for the best "long-term fiscal stability." Our strong record of living within our means and saving for rainy days put us ahead of the curve and positioned our state well to meet the needs of Hoosiers during the pandemic.
Despite a revenue shortfall in the first half of 2020 due to COVID-19, businesses are continuing to invest in our state and commit to more than 23,000 new jobs for Hoosiers, investing over $4 billion in current operations and raising the average per-hour wage to $27 this year. These businesses expanding and relocating to Indiana are companies in our state's high-demand fields, including advanced manufacturing, construction, life sciences, information technology, business services and transportation and logistics.
With more businesses choosing to relocate to Indiana, skilled workers are needed to fill these high-wage jobs. Those looking for a new job, making a career change or reentering the workforce can receive tuition-free job training through Indiana's Next Level Jobs program. Hoosiers can take advantage of this opportunity and anyone interested in skilling up should visit NextLevelJobs.org.
Indiana is also making strides to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship throughout the state. Several programs are available to attract new business and provide financial support for Hoosier companies to grow. In 2017, the average self-employment rate for Crawford, Dubois, Perry, Orange and Spencer counties was between 7% and 9%. To attract capital more quickly for entrepreneurs and startups, business owners can take advantage of the Venture Capital Investment Tax Credit. If interested in growing your company and learning more about the various incentive programs, visit IEDC.in.gov/incentives.
There is no doubt in my mind Indiana is the best state to call home and make a living. We live by our Hoosier values, look out for our neighbors and help where we can. For those who have an idea to help improve our state, please contact my office at h74@iga.in.gov or 317-323-9802.
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State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) represents House District 74,
which includes portions of Spencer, Dubois, Perry, Crawford and Orange counties.
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