GRANT COUNTY

Moves Ideas Forward

Our Mission

to promote a vibrant, sustainable economy that attracts and empowers business growth and innovation in Grant County

Two people standing on a sidewalk with the words 'PASSION LED US HERE' written on it. One person wears silver shoes, and the other wears blue sneakers. Shadows of trees are cast on the sidewalk.
White painted text on a textured dark wall that reads 'DREAM BIG.'

Our Vision

to serve as champions of collaboration and opportunity, leading the charge to make Grant County one of the best places to live, learn, and work

“near $3 billion invested”

The Growth Council drives progress that supports families, strengthens businesses, and expands opportunity for all. In the past year alone, our efforts have helped attract nearly $3 billion in investment to Grant County.

A smiling woman with short hair and tattoos on her arms, wearing a gray t-shirt, is standing in a garage or workshop with motorcycles and tools in the background.
A man with dark hair and glasses wearing a black blazer and white shirt, smiling in front of a gray background.
A young woman with blonde wavy hair, wearing a dark blue velvet blazer and white top, standing outside a storefront with a street in the background.

  • Executive Director

    With more than 40 years of experience in local government, utilities, and economic development, Chuck Binkerd brings deep expertise and strong community relationships to his role as Executive Director of the Grant County Economic Growth Council.

    Chuck previously served as Executive Director of Marion Utilities for 25 years, following leadership roles with Peru Utilities and the Grissom Redevelopment Authority. He has also served more than a decade on the Growth Council’s Board of Directors and over 20 years on the Marion Community Revitalization Enhancement District Board.

    Known for his passion for people and partnerships, Chuck sees the Growth Council as a hub for connection—supporting existing businesses, attracting new opportunities, and helping residents thrive. He is committed to ensuring the organization is well-funded, forward-thinking, and always focused on building a stronger, more vibrant Grant County.

  • Program Coordinator

    Madison (Madi) hit the ground running with the Growth Council in July 2025. With a background in project management, marketing, and nonprofit service—as well as deep hometown roots in Grant County—she’s jumped right in learning more about the organization, collaborating with community leaders, and supporting the Growth Council’s mission to strengthen and grow our region. Outside of work, Madison enjoys baking, live music, good food, coffee, and spending time with her two cats and favorite humans.

  • Marketing Coordinator

    Loretta brings creativity, strategy, and a passion for storytelling to the Growth Council team. With experience in communications, marketing, and nonprofit service, she helps craft messages that highlight Grant County’s strengths and opportunities. A strong community advocate, Loretta is dedicated to fostering collaboration, supporting local businesses, and sharing the stories that connect people to place. Outside of work, she enjoys gardening, music, and quality time with her husband, pets, and close friends.

Diversity and Inclusion

Founded in 1985, the Grant County Economic Growth Council was created by a coalition of industry leaders, bankers, educators, government officials, and medical professionals determined to reinvigorate a stagnant local economy. Together, they built a plan to showcase the community’s strengths and market them at the local, state, and national levels to attract new investment and support business growth.

Over the years, the Growth Council has earned recognition for its impact—named a Top Ten Local Development Group by Site Selection magazine three times, recognized as Indiana’s leader in plant expansion by a Conway Data Survey, and featured in a National League of Cities publication for its successful business retention efforts.

From the beginning, our mission has been clear: “to promote a vibrant, sustainable economy that attracts and empowers business growth and innovation.” This vision applies to all businesses and all people who call Grant County home.

As we reflect on our history and look toward the future, the Growth Council’s staff and board of directors reaffirm our unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We reject all forms of racism and discrimination and remain committed to action over words in building a community where everyone can thrive.