Van Buren, Indiana: Popcorn Capital's Economic Growth and Small-Town Quality of Life

Van Buren, Indiana may be a small Midwestern town of under 900 people, but it wears a big title—the "Popcorn Capital of the World"—and backs it up with robust economic activity and unwavering civic pride.

Home to the historic Weaver Popcorn Company and other key industries, Van Buren is leveraging its long-standing industrial base for new investment and job growth. At the same time, residents and local leaders are nurturing a close-knit, family-friendly community with unique traditions and a high quality of life. This blend of economic development and rural charm makes Van Buren an attractive location for site selectors, entrepreneurs, and prospective residents alike.

Building on Popcorn: Industry and Investment

Van Buren's economy is anchored by Weaver Popcorn Manufacturing, a nearly century-old business that has put the town on the map. Founded in 1928 by Ira Weaver, the family-owned company grew into "the largest independent maker of popcorn products in the United States," producing popcorn sold around the world. Weaver Popcorn remains the town's largest employer and a source of local pride. Town Council Member Jerry Caudill notes that "Van Buren is proud to be the Popcorn Capital of the World"—a title well-earned through the company's presence and legacy.

Today, Weaver Popcorn is not just resting on its legacy—it's expanding. In 2024 the company announced a $22 million multi-year investment to upgrade and expand its Van Buren operations. This project will add state-of-the-art packaging and food processing technology, new production lines, and approximately 45 new high-tech jobs to the local economy. The Weaver campus already boasts two manufacturing plants and a corn processing facility on site, which had seen $16 million in upgrades in the prior two years. "As the gold standard in the snacking industry, we are thrilled to further invest right here in Indiana, where we have the opportunity to grow for the next generation of success," said Tim Ingle, Weaver's Chief Operating Officer, in unveiling the expansion. State officials likewise hailed the move. "This investment will help modernize the company's operations…while ensuring Weaver Popcorn's long-term presence in Grant County and its positive economic and community impact on the region," said Ann Lathrop of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC). To support Weaver's growth, the IEDC offered incentive packages totaling up to $650,000 in performance-based tax credits and training grants, underscoring Indiana's commitment to local economic development.

Weaver's expansion is a boon not only in jobs created but in solidifying the town's economic future. "We are thrilled with Weaver Popcorn's decision to add more great jobs and invest further in our community," said Council President Caudill, noting the company's nearly 100-year relationship with Van Buren and "continued mutual success" ahead. For a town of this size, 45 new jobs is significant. Local leaders expect a ripple effect on supporting businesses and the labor market across Grant County. In fact, companies that service the food manufacturing industry are part of Van Buren's industrial mix. PSSI Inc., a national food processing sanitation firm, operates in Van Buren as well—supporting the large popcorn processing facilities and contributing to the employment base. Proximity to the I-69 interstate (Exit 273) is another asset, giving local manufacturers easy logistics and freight access. Van Buren sits roughly a 50-minute drive from Fort Wayne and 90 minutes from Indianapolis, positioning it within reach of major markets and suppliers. This strategic location, combined with Indiana's business-friendly climate, makes the town appealing for further industrial investment.

Homegrown Manufacturing and Entrepreneurship

While popcorn dominates the headlines, Van Buren's economic profile extends beyond a single crop. The town has fostered diversification through manufacturing and small business entrepreneurship. A prime example is Modern Machine & Tool, Inc., a precision machining company that has grown up alongside the popcorn industry. Modern Machine was founded in 1998 by local entrepreneur Les Korporal in a modest 30-by-50-foot garage—and steadily expanded into a thriving operation. By 2005, the business moved into a new custom-built facility on the south side of Van Buren, and today it runs two shifts with more than 30 skilled employees producing high-quality machined parts for a range of industries. This family-run firm exemplifies how a small-town startup can scale into a successful employer. Its presence broadens Van Buren's manufacturing sector beyond food processing, providing jobs in advanced machining and fabrication. The company's ability to "adapt to the ever-changing industry" has kept it competitive, and its growth highlights local strengths like a dedicated workforce and a supportive business environment.

Entrepreneurial energy is also evident in Van Buren's small business scene. Residents with vision are repurposing old spaces and launching new ventures, adding to the town's vitality. One notable story is Mama Duck's Kitchen, a family-owned artisanal foods shop and café started by Cayla Duckwall. Duckwall began simply by selling a few homemade jam flavors at the Van Buren Popcorn Festival four years ago. Encouraged by the response, she renovated a literal 1900-built former gas station downtown into a charming storefront for her jams, salsas, and baked goods—all while giving local crafters a venue to sell their creations. "I just love how it is made up of locals," said friend and collaborator Jen Plummer about the venture. "Somebody's 'I like to craft…' can be an extra set of income for them." In 2024, Mama Duck's expanded to include a café serving comfort foods and creative weekly specials, quickly becoming a community gathering spot. Duckwall emphasizes that beyond the food, it's about fostering community: "In the summer, you see people sitting out at the picnic tables…that's a community meeting point. Getting those community members together is a big deal," she said. Her success earned local praise and shows how Van Buren's entrepreneurial ecosystem—from the Popcorn Festival marketplace to supportive neighbors—can incubate small businesses.

Other local establishments lend their character to the town's economic life. Wolfie's Time Out Tavern, for instance, is a popular neighborhood pub offering pizza, burgers, and a gathering place for residents to unwind. These homegrown businesses not only create jobs and attract visitors, but also enhance the quality of life for locals. The synergy between big industry players like Weaver and the grassroots entrepreneurs is part of Van Buren's appeal: it's a place where a major manufacturer can thrive and invest, and where a creative individual with a dream can open up shop on Main Street and succeed.

Quality of Life in a Close-Knit Community

Economic opportunities are only part of Van Buren's story—the town also offers a wholesome, tight-knit community atmosphere that residents cherish. The cost of living here is notably affordable, which is a draw for families and retirees. Median home values are around $65,600—a fraction of the U.S. national median of $303,400—and roughly 80% of residents are homeowners. Housing is not only affordable but also stable, reflecting the pride people take in settling down in Van Buren. Residents describe the area as having a rural, small-town feel where neighbors know each other, and indeed many have deep roots. The local public schools are rated above average—students here attend Eastbrook Community Schools—underscoring the town's family-friendly environment. Low crime rates and a slower pace of life add to the sense of safety and comfort. It's the kind of place where front porch conversations and community events are part of daily life.

One of Van Buren's defining community events is its annual Popcorn Festival, a tradition that encapsulates the town's spirit. Every August, this free three-day festival brings together residents and visitors to celebrate the town's popcorn heritage with food, fun, and festivities. There's something for all ages: a lively parade down Main Street, live music each night (including an all-ages karaoke contest), a 5K run, kids' activities like bounce houses and pedal-tractor pulls, an antique car show, craft and food vendors (serving plenty of popcorn, of course), and fireworks to cap it off. The Popcorn Festival has been running for over 50 years and is supported by Weaver Popcorn as well as local organizations. It not only boosts local commerce during the summer but also reinforces civic pride—many locals volunteer at the event, and former residents often return to join in the homecoming-like atmosphere.

Community spirit shines year-round. In the winter, residents organize a "Little Town of Christmas" festival downtown, complete with a live Nativity scene, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and holiday lights for families to enjoy. The event was launched in 2021 by a local pastor to fill a need for shared holiday celebration. "This is a way to get people together and share the Christmas story," explains Pastor Brad Hensley, who leads the effort. The whole town gets involved—churches host charity chili suppers to fund gifts for children, volunteers set up decorations, and kids from the elementary school benefit from any extra funds raised for weekend food packs. "It's about bringing people together and building community," Hensley says of the festival's purpose. That ethos of neighborliness and helping one another is a hallmark of Van Buren life.

Recreation and local culture further enrich the quality of life. Van Buren is a stop along Grant County's Garfield Trail—a series of 14 whimsical statues honoring Garfield the cat, whose creator, Jim Davis, hails from nearby Fairmount. A Garfield statue in Van Buren, depicted with a tub of popcorn, nods to the town's dual claim to fame in popcorn and comics. The trail draws visitors and gives residents a fun landmark to enjoy. Just 20 minutes away in Marion, Grant County's seat, one can find larger parks, a walkable downtown, and additional dining and shopping options—convenient for Van Buren residents while allowing them to return to the tranquility of their town. And with Interstate 69 so close, excursions to metropolitan amenities in Fort Wayne or Indianapolis are an easy drive for a day trip or business needs.

A Place Where Growth Meets Community

In Van Buren, economic development and quality of life go hand in hand. The town's leadership and businesses are creating new opportunities—from factory jobs to small business ventures—without losing the friendly, cohesive character that defines this community. For site selectors and investors, Van Buren offers the advantages of a pro-business Indiana location with proven industry success (exemplified by Weaver Popcorn's growth) and a supportive local government ready to partner on growth. For entrepreneurs, the town provides an encouraging environment where a good idea and community support can flourish, as Mama Duck's story shows. And for residents or those looking to relocate, Van Buren delivers a high quality of life: affordable living, engaged neighbors, safe streets, and rich local traditions from popcorn celebrations to Christmas sleigh rides.

As Van Buren's Town Council President summed it up during the latest expansion news, this community looks forward to "the continued mutual success" of its cornerstone industry and the town. In Van Buren, the popcorn is popping, the machines are humming, and the community is growing—all while maintaining the welcoming spirit of a small Indiana town. It's a place where economic growth isn't an abstract plan; it's happening now in real investments and new jobs, and it's rooted firmly in a hometown pride that site selectors and newcomers can tangibly feel from day one. Van Buren truly demonstrates that a small town with the right ingredients—a strong business base, strategic location, and dedicated people—can achieve big outcomes, all while enjoying the simple pleasures of small-town life.

References

Food Business News. (2024, May 6). Popcorn maker upgrading Indiana plant. https://www.foodbusinessnews.net/articles/26121-popcorn-maker-upgrading-indiana-plant

Forge ECI. (2024). Weaver Popcorn invests in Grant County. https://grow.forgeeci.com/about/news/uncategorized/weaver-popcorn-invests-in-grant-county

GrantConnected. (2024a, November 7). Van Buren chili supper raises funds for annual Little Town of Christmas event. https://grantconnected.net/blog/2024/11/07/van-buren-chili-supper-raises-funds-for-annual-little-town-of-christmas-event

GrantConnected. (2024b, November 24). Van Buren mother runs business in a former gas station. https://grantconnected.net/blog/2024/11/24/van-buren-mother-runs-business-in-a-former-gas-station

Hoosier Ag Today. (2024, May 6). Weaver Popcorn expansion in Grant County. https://www.hoosieragtoday.com/2024/05/06/weaver-popcorn-expansion-grant-county

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