What do tariffs, labor shortages, and economic uncertainty mean for Indiana, and for Grant County? Insights from the 2026 Indiana Economic Outlook highlight a slowing economy, mounting pressure on manufacturers, and why workforce, education, and long-term planning matter more than ever.

Explore how Converse, Indiana blends history, small-town charm, and economic revitalization - from thriving Main Street shops and horse racing heritage to new housing developments and the legacy of motorcycle legend Ray Creviston.

Free, confidential business consulting is available to every Grant County entrepreneur through a partnership between the Grant County Economic Growth Council and the East Central Indiana Small Business Development Center—bringing expert guidance, resources, and support directly to local businesses.

As Grant County reflects on 2025 and looks ahead to 2026, countywide participation in a brief business and investment survey plays a critical role in capturing the full picture of local economic growth, community investment, and workforce progress—ensuring every contribution helps shape what comes next.

When Grant County entrepreneurs show up for one another, good things happen.

That spirit is at the heart of the Business Talk Breakfast, returning Monday, December 22, at 7:45 a.m. at Lolas’ at the Inn in Marion. Hosted in partnership with the City of Marion, this casual gathering is part of the ongoing Business Talk Small Business Series, created to give local business owners and entrepreneurs a space to connect, share ideas, and build community.

In the heart of Indiana’s Grant County, five small communities — Fowlerton, Sims, Landess, Jalapa, and Point Isabel — quietly embody the promise of rural America: affordable living, strategic accessibility, and strong community spirit. Though collectively home to fewer than 1,000 people, each town offers unique advantages for business, residents, and visitors alike. From rail-served freight access to riverfront recreation near the Mississinewa River, these towns exemplify how small size and quiet charm can combine with growth potential and quality of life.

The City of Marion’s new Business Talk Breakfast series is open to all Grant County entrepreneurs. This relaxed monthly gathering offers small business owners a welcoming space to network, share ideas, and strengthen the countywide business community. Learn more about the upcoming holiday-season events and how to get involved.

Swayzee, Indiana — a rural town of fewer than 1,000 residents — is embracing a bold 10-year growth plan to revitalize its downtown, harness remote-work trends, expand broadband, and build from its agricultural roots without losing its small-town charm.

Explore how Van Buren, Indiana blends industrial success with small-town charm. Learn about major employers like Weaver Popcorn, local entrepreneurship, and community-driven quality of life that make Van Buren a rising star for business and residents.

Explore Marion, Indiana’s resurgence—anchored in manufacturing, healthcare expansion, education partnerships, and downtown revitalization. Ideal for site selectors, investors, and future residents.

Gas City, Indiana is experiencing a surge of growth in housing, business, and community life. With new developments, expanding city limits, and a thriving local culture, this Grant County gem is proving that small cities can have big potential.

Discover Matthews, Indiana — a small town with a rich gas boom heritage, a famous covered bridge, and a thriving community spirit. From historic industry roots to modern entrepreneurship, outdoor recreation, and the beloved Covered Bridge Festival, Matthews is a hidden gem of Grant County with big potential for residents, tourists, and investors.

Welcome to Sweetser! Founded in 1871, Sweetser, Indiana is a forward-thinking community that offers classic small-town living with quick and easy access to city amenities.

Jonesboro, Indiana is a small city with ample community spirit, nestled along the Mississinewa River in Grant County. Home to roughly 1,500 residents, Jonesboro is one of Indiana’s smallest incorporated cities by population.

Nestled in the heart of Indiana, the Town of Upland (population approximately 3,700) offers an inviting blend of small-town charm and forward-looking growth.

Fairmount, Indiana may be small in size—home to just under 3,000 people—but it's bursting with hometown pride and history. This close-knit community is famous for producing two American icons: actor James Dean and Garfield cartoonist Jim Davis.

From new development to workforce investment, progress is happening across Grant County!

The City of Marion is excited to welcome Megan Gilmore, a coaching and well-being educator and international speaker on cascading cultures of well-being and care, as the guest speaker for the Business Talk Small Business Series on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. at Marion City Hall, 301 S. Branson St., Marion, IN.

The City of Marion is excited to welcome Keenan Davis, a seasoned business professional and State Farm agency owner, as the guest speaker for the Business Talk Small Business Series on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. at Marion City Hall, 301 S. Branson St., Marion, IN.

Got business-related questions? The Grant County Economic Growth Council is excited to host weekly office hours with Zina Bartle, the Ecosystem Navigator with the East Central Indiana Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Zina brings extensive business experience to the table and is passionate about helping local entrepreneurs succeed.