Diversifying from a position of strength
Orange County produced approximately $901.8 million in goods and services in 2024, with nominal GDP growing 4.7% during the year. Accommodation and food services, construction, manufacturing, and agriculture were the county’s largest contributors to economic output.
Orange County’s Wood/Paper industry cluster employs approximately 488 workers and has an employment concentration more than eight times the national average, reinforcing the county’s longstanding strength in wood products and related manufacturing.
Orange County has long been known as a center of excellence in manufacturing. Even today, many of Orange County employees continue to work in manufacturing. Consequently, you’ll be more likely to find workers with the skills you require, and you’ll also be more likely to find established supply chains to link into for your business. Orange County’s manufacturing sector has companies with the number of employees ranging from 10 to 600. So no matter how small or large, Orange County can provide for your employee needs. Orange County’s manufacturing base is diverse and represented by companies in metal fabrication, furniture production, wood products, construction materials, food processing, and mineral production.
Orange County’s advantages for manufacturing companies:
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Low electric power rates
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Skilled and unskilled manufacturing labor availability and competitive wages
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Natural logistical advantage: highways, rail, and close proximity to a major airport and a port.
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Shovel-ready sites and buildings
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No inventory tax
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No M&E taxes
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Ready access to vocational education
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Affordable housing
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Outstanding recreational opportunities and quality of life
Selected incentives for manufacturing companies:
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Industrial Development Grant Fund (IDGF)
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Loan Guaranty Program (Guaranteed by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC))
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Capital Access Program (CAP)
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Patent Tax Exemption
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Shovel Ready Certification
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International Trade Show Assistance (TSAP)
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Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) Tax Credit
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Headquarters Relocation Tax Credit
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Hoosier Business Investment Tax Credit (HBITC)
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New Market Tax Credits
