Indiana Technology & Innovation Association News

Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) Announces 2026-2027 Policy Priorities to Support the Hoosier Tech & Innovation Economy

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 20:31:15 GMT

INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) released its 2026-2027 policy priorities to support and grow Indiana’s technology, innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem during its annual Legislative Update with TechPoint.

The event brings together Indiana’s technology and innovation leaders with state legislators on Organization Day to mark the ceremonial start of the 2026 legislative session.

Legislators, including Senator Jeff Raatz (R-Richmond), Senate Minority Leader Shelli Yoder (D-Bloomington), Representative Dave Heine (R-Fort Wayne) and House Minority Caucus Chair Carey Hamilton (D-Indianapolis), spoke at the event and gave a preview of the upcoming legislative session.

“The tech and innovation industry continues to grow across all corners of our state, providing high-wage jobs and opportunities for Hoosiers,” stated Jennifer Hallowell, ITIA executive director. “Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence present enormous opportunities for both the private and public sector to improve products and services alike. Now is the time to lean in on the momentum Indiana’s tech ecosystem has seen over the recent years and meet the challenges of the future.”

“We will continue to advocate for programs and investments that expand access to venture capital for Hoosier startups, skill up the tech talent pipeline, and make Indiana one of the best states in the nation to start and grow an innovation driven enterprise. We look forward to working together with the legislature and administration to advance the innovation economy in the upcoming session and beyond,” she added.

ITIA’s 2026-2027 policy priorities include:

Expanding access to the Venture Capital Investment (VCI) Tax Credit to capture more Hoosier high-growth companies. Increasing the cap to ensure innovation-driven companies and funds have continued access to the credit.

Continuing Indiana’s startup investments, including the 21st Century Research & Technology Fund, which supports Innovation Vouchers, the SBIR/STTR matching grant program, and direct startup investment. Supporting the growth of the Innovation Voucher Program.
Promoting AI literacy by supporting efforts to responsibly introduce students to Artificial Intelligence, ensuring they are prepared to participate in the economy of the future.
Expanding high-quality STEM education opportunities statewide and supporting the continued efforts to improve student proficiency in math and sciences.
Supporting the Indiana Career Apprenticeship Pathway (INCAP) to provide students with work-based learning opportunities in fields including information technology, advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and others.
Supporting Indiana’s Certified Technology Park program to fuel regional entrepreneurship, small business growth, and new business creation.
Promoting data-driven regional economic development by supporting a coordinated effort across state agencies to establish and share a comprehensive view of economic activity, business formation, and industry scale.

ITIA will work with legislative and administration partners to advance these and other policy priorities in 2026 and beyond.

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IBJ: Securing funds for venture capital a top priority for Indiana tech lobby

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 18:57:00 GMT

Indiana’s technology-focused support groups’ legislative priority this session is securing additional state investment for tech startups and established companies, they announced during an event Tuesday afternoon.

The Indiana Technology and Innovation Association, which lobbies on behalf of the state’s technology sector, and advocacy group TechPoint are asking lawmakers to re-up their support of the Indiana Next Level Fund, which is used to make venture capital investments in state companies.

However, an expected tight budget cycle could limit how much lawmakers are willing to designate for existing technical investments—never mind additional requests. Both Democrat Rep. Phil Giaquinta and Republican Sen. Travis Holdman said they want to help the tech industry but are handcuffed by the budget.

“I wish I had flowery, optimistic forecasts of where we’re going this next session,” Holdman told attendees. “I wish I had better news for you.”

The December revenue forecast will shed light on how much legislators will have to work with.

Injecting more venture capital into the state’s startup community is a top priority for ITIA and TechPoint. ITIA Executive Director Jennifer Hallowell said that a lack of financial support is a reason for Indiana entrepreneurs to leave the state for the coasts.

Lawmakers greenlit the Next Level Fund in 2017, replacing the Next Generation Trust Fund. With up to $250 million in its initial investment, Hallowell said a new installment is needed as the first allocation nears its end.

“This is one of the most critical steps that we can take to accelerate Indiana’s innovation economy,” she said.

ITIA and TechPoint are also advocating for continued financial support of the 21st Century Research and Technology Fund, or 21 Fund for short. The fund, which supports early-stage investors, received $33 million a year in the last two-year budget cycle.

As for tech parks, the lobbyist group is seeking to allow member companies of Indiana’s two dozen tech parks to capture an extra $500,000 of annual incremental tax income once they hit their $5 million cap.

They also seek to pass a Right to Start Act, which is entrepreneurship-friendly legislation crafted by the namesake nonprofit. Republican Rep. Jake Teshka of North Liberty introduced legislation last session that died in committee.

As for building the state’s workforce, ITIA and TechPoint are asking for lawmakers to continue funding the STEM Teacher Recruitment Fund, Next Level Computer Science Program and for robotics and entrepreneurism programs.

They also support continued funding of Career Scholarship Accounts. The CSA program offers high school sophomores, juniors and seniors up to $5,000 a year to offset expenses associated with participating in approved internships, apprenticeships, work-based learning and credential programs.

The Indiana treasurer’s office, which houses the program, introduced a budget to lawmakers last week that included maintaining the same level of funding support.

Link to article.

Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) Announces 2025 Policy Priorities to Support and Grow Entrepreneurship, Innovation in Indiana

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 18:55:34 GMT

Indianapolis, IN – The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) released its 2025 policy priorities to support and grow Indiana’s technology, innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem during its annual Legislative Update with TechPoint.

The Legislative Update brings together Indiana’s technology and innovation leaders with state legislators on Organization Day to mark the ceremonial start of the 2025 Legislative Session.

Legislative leaders including House Democratic Leader Phil GiaQuinta and Senate Majority Caucus Chair Travis Holdman spoke at the event and gave a preview of the upcoming legislative session.

“There is a tremendous amount of momentum in Indiana’s technology and innovation industry. We’re seeing a rise in global, technology and innovation-fueled enterprises choosing Indiana to locate and invest, our homegrown companies are embracing new technologies like AI, and our ecosystem is coming together to help address talent needs and make sure we’re poised to meet this opportunity,” said Jennifer Hallowell, ITIA Executive Director. “The State has an important role to play to embrace our future economy and help meet the most urgent needs, including access to capital, support resources for innovators and entrepreneurs, and better preparing our students for jobs in emerging, tech-based fields. We look forward to making progress together during the next legislative session to embrace the innovation economy.”

According to the 2024 TechPoint Mission41K Tech Talent Report, Indiana’s tech employment grew to 121,600 in 2023, representing the highest level of overall tech employment ever in the state. Over the past 10 years, tech occupations have been major contributors to Indiana’s overall job growth. In fact, Indiana has outpaced most states in the growth of its tech sector.

While our tech sector is growing, one of the biggest pain points continues to be access to venture capital needed for innovative Indiana companies to start, scale and succeed in this global economy. According to the 2023 Indiana Venture Report, Indiana only received 0.3 percent of venture capital investment deployed nationally and sees primarily small, early stage deals.

To help meet these needs, ITIA’s 2025 policy priorities include:
- Unlocking a second round of state investment into the Indiana Next Level Fund to further accelerate the availability of venture capital for Indiana companies at the growth stage.
- Robust investment in the 21st Century Research and Technology Fund, which is a critical source of funding to support the growth and development of early stage innovation in the state, including through Elevate Ventures.
- Advancing Right to Start policies, including bolstering the Office of Small Business and Entrepreneurship to prioritize and align support resources for entrepreneurs across state government and encourage more new business creation.
- Allowing high performing Certified Tech Parks (CTPs) that have reached their $5M cap to capture an additional $500,000 in annual incremental income tax to support regional innovation.
- Funding to skill up K-12 educators in tech-based skills, including through the STEM Teacher Recruitment Fund and Next Level Computer Science Program; annual funding for robotics and support for entrepreneurial programming.
- Continued funding for Career Scholarship Accounts to ensure students can access career opportunities; expanding flexibility for Next Level Jobs, including allowing individuals pursuing stackable IT credentials to qualify for funding on a per year basis rather than once over their lifetime.

ITIA will work with legislative and administration partners to advance these and other policy priorities in 2025.

The Indiana Technology & Innovation Industry (ITIA) is the statewide association representing technology and innovation-driven enterprises and partners working together to accelerate the innovation economy.

Membership is open to technology and innovation-driven businesses, organizations that are tech-enabled or that support technology companies, student entrepreneurs and government partners. For more information and to join ITIA, visit www.IndianaTechnology.org.

Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) to Host Annual Conference at Rally

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 13:46:47 GMT

Largest Annual Gathering of Technology Leaders and Policy Makers

Indianapolis, IN – The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) announced it will host its 2024 Annual Conference at Rally, the global, cross-sector innovation conference being held in Indianapolis this month.

The ITIA Annual Conference will be held on the first day of Rally, Tuesday, August 27^th at the Indiana Convention Center, from 10am to 4pm.

The ITIA Annual Conference brings together Indiana’s technology and innovation leaders with policy makers to discuss key issues facing the industry. The Conference will feature several speakers, panels and topics related to accelerating Indiana’s innovation economy.

Elected officials including U.S. Senator Todd Young, U.S. Senator Mike Braun, State Senator Liz Brown and State Representative Bob Behning will be speaking at the event, as well as several ITIA members and industry leaders from across the state.

Topics will include Raising Venture Capital in Indiana, What’s Ahead in AI, Launching Indiana as a Global Tech Hub, Reimaging the Talent Pipeline and Building a World-class Entrepreneurial Ecosystem. It will also feature a Lunch with State Legislators.

“The ITIA Annual Conference is our largest event of the year and an opportunity for our membership to gather, connect and learn from one another, as well as build relationships with policy makers,” said Jennifer Hallowell, ITIA Executive Director. “We are once again excited to be part of Rally and encourage all technology or innovation-driven companies and partners to join us for our event.”

ITIA Members are provided a significantly discounted ticket to attend both the ITIA Annual Conference and Rally. Non-Members attending Rally can access the ITIA Conference for an additional $65 which includes lunch.

You can view the full agenda for the ITIA Annual Conference here, as well as sign up to attend. All attendees must also register for Rally here.

ITIA membership is open to all technology and innovation-driven enterprises and partners working together to accelerate the innovation economy. For more information and to join ITIA, visit www.IndianaTechnology.org.

ITIA Blog: Actions to Take Before, During and After an M&A to Safeguard Reputation

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 14:13:30 GMT

Submitted by Casey Boggs, President of ReputationUs

“To merge, or not to merge.” That is the question that companies often discreetly ask in today’s business environment. These undisclosed, perhaps even taboo conversations, being done in the back room or over glasses of wine seem to be happening—especially in the technology industry—at a steady clip in 2024. When companies look to combine forces through a merger or acquisition, the pace of negotiations means their reputation and a well-thought-out communications strategy often gets overlooked.

In our firm’s experience of supporting both the acquirer and the acquired companies, the overarching theme we’ve encountered is that clear, concise and consistent communications is at the epicenter of a successful acquisition. Moreover, the cohesiveness of a strategic M&A plan—and its actualizations—must include safeguarding reputation as a paramount consideration.

Merging for More Than Financials

When analyzing and auditing a respective business to determine if proceeding with a merger makes sense, considerations include the strength of both companies’ balance sheets, cultural similarities, and compatible technology and overall strength of brand and vision.

“A merger has to make sense financially for both organizations, but we also place a lot of emphasis on shared vision,” Paris Chevalier, former chief marketing officer for Xceed, an El Segundo, California financial institution that merged with Kinecta Credit Union.

“In addition to a thorough review of both entities financials and an in-depth review of products, services, locations and associates, we carefully examine a company’s mission, vision and values,” she said.

If two entities decide to come together, communication must be considered in the context of logistics and cultural sensitivities, customer nuances and understandings. Then the importance of timing and channels of communication can make all the difference in keeping institutional reputations intact.

Timing Is Everything

Communication is important before, during and after a merger. Determining how to communicate and reputation risk considerations are often brought into the realm late. These important components should be brought in early, however, to help maximize opportunity, identify vulnerabilities and ensure a smooth transition.

To ensure a potential merger happens seamlessly, multiple departments should be involved beforehand – not only the top-level executives. Be sure to include members of your operations, IT, communication, marketing, HR and even legal teams. It is also important to solidify that the board, executives, managers, customer or client-facing staff and spokespeople are unified in their communications. This can be accomplished with what we call “message unity training” to ensure everyone’s “singing from the same song page” when details of the acquisition are announced.

Up, Inside & Out: Multi-Prong Approach to Announce Acquisition

During an acquisition, a multi-prong approach with a well-orchestrated cascade of communications should follow the sequence, “Up,” “Inside” and “Out”:

Communicate “Up”

Internally to the acquiring the company: The board, executives, and managers.
Internally to the company being acquired: The board, executives, and managers.

Communicate “Inside”

Internally to both staffs, customers, vendors, partners and industry associations (e.g., ITIA).

Communicate “Out”

Externally to the public, communities, media and social influencers.

Communication Questions To Ask

How can you refine your overall communications strategy and manage your reputation before, during and after an acquisition? Ask yourself these key questions:

What exactly and clearly do you want to communicate?
Why do you want to communicate it?
Why should each audience care about the acquisition?
Why is this partnership or consolidation happening now?
Who are the existing and prospective customers you want to communicate to and prioritize?
How/where (i.e., what channels of communication) will you communicate?
One-on-one meetings, phone calls, emails, newsletters, video, media and social media.
When is the best time to communicate your message?

Humanize the Acquisition

A company’s early communications to both staff and customers regarding the acquisition are of the utmost importance. The first step is a personalized note from the CEO that welcomes and reassures acquired customers, placing emphasis on their value to the combined company’s future. A heartfelt video message from the CEO is also a nice touch. However, face-to-face direct interactions, when appropriate, can occur to have even more impact on customer attrition.

Employees are, in essence, the face of the company and are, therefore, absolutely essential to customer retention. As such, the benefits of the acquisition should be thoughtfully and clearly communicated to staff first. Failure to clearly communicate the details of the deal early with employees translates into confusion and later poor customer understanding.

Staff meetings should be held immediately to bring the core benefits of the acquisition to light—and what it all means to them. It’s also very important that executive leadership present messaging to staff in a clear, unified voice. Training and practicing the talking points will keep the desired message consistent. Staff should be instructed to relay these key messages to customers.

Following initial staff meetings and the delivery of talking points, ongoing communication across multiple platforms (e.g., mobile, website, in-office, written marketing materials, video) will welcome questions, build excitement and, above all, express to customers that they are valued and what to expect next.

The value of genuine communications to strengthen staff and customer retention through the post-acquisition integration process is quite clear. Lost employees and customers must inevitably be replaced by new ones. Even a small improvement in staff and customer retention can make a big difference to deposit balances, fee streams, loan portfolios and, ultimately, the bottom line.

Keep The Communications Coming

Many acquisitions fall short of expectations because of a failure to understand the importance of communicating. Even though the acquisition may look great on paper, it’s important to pay attention to the reputation ramifications, as well as the communication needs of the post-acquisition integration process. This is the secret to making a company M&A deal truly successful.

Assuming the reason for merging is to bind together, prosper and grow, the six months after an acquisition should be considered a working juncture of continued proactive communications and reputation enhancement. A company should use this opportunity to retain staff and customers, as well as to attract new staff and customers. Direct communications can also help strengthen the bond with the communities that the combined company serves, through staff volunteer time, addressing important issues and being stewards of the acquisition process.

Casey Boggs is president of ReputationUs – An ITIA member, and a public relations, reputation management and crisis mitigation firm specializing in technology.

Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) Announces Policy Committee Chairs to Lead 2025 Priorities

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 16:35:21 GMT

Indianapolis, IN – The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) today announced its Policy Committee Chairs heading into the 2025 legislative session.

The following ITIA members will help lead the association’s policy development and identify priorities to accelerate Indiana’s tech and innovation ecosystem.
Capital Policy Committee – Megan Glover, Co-Founder and CEO, 120Water in Zionsville, IN
Talent Policy Committee – Mike Halbig, Founder & CEO, InGen Technologies in Evansville, IN
Place Policy Committee – Ted Baker, CEO & Executive Director, the Innovation Connector in Muncie, IN
Equity Committee – Juliana Casavan, Director of Operations, MatchBOX Coworking Studio in Lafayette, IN

ITIA’s policy committees advocate for policies across a range of issues including expanding access to venture capital, strengthening our talent pipeline, contributing to placemaking that embraces tech and innovation, and promoting equity and diversity.

ITIA member organizations serve on each of the four committees – Capital, Talent, Place and Equity.

“Our policy committees give technology and innovation leaders across the state a voice in shaping policy to accelerate entrepreneurship and fuel innovation in Indiana,” said ITIA Executive Director Jennifer Hallowell. “We’re excited to have committee leadership representing various regions of our state and encourage entrepreneurs, tech and innovation companies and partner organizations to get involved and help drive our industry forward.”

Each year, ITIA releases a policy agenda with its priorities to foster growth in tech and innovation.

During the 2024 legislative session, ITIA successfully advocated to advance STEM education in K-12 schools by establishing a computer science high school graduation requirement, supported expansions for robotics funding, apprenticeships and other workplace experiences in schools, and supported the creation of an AI Task Force to study uses of AI by government agencies.

Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) Applauds AWS Data Center Investment, Urges Continued Focus on Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 13:12:59 GMT

Indianapolis, IN – The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) issued the following statement today regarding the announcement that Amazon Web Services (AWS) plans to invest $11 billion to build a data center campus in north central Indiana and create at least 1,000 new jobs.

“The momentum we’ve seen in recent months with several global, technology and innovation-fueled enterprises choosing Indiana to locate operations and invest is setting the stage for Indiana’s next chapter,” said ITIA Executive Director Jennifer Hallowell. “To embrace this opportunity, we must continue to prioritize innovation and entrepreneurship at all levels and ensure we’re creating the strongest ecosystem to attract world-class companies and help our own Hoosier entrepreneurs succeed. We’re excited to welcome AWS to Indiana and work together to propel Indiana forward.”

ITIA membership is open to all technology and innovation-driven enterprises and partners. For more information about ITIA and how to join, visit www.IndianaTechnology.org.

Indiana Technology & Innovation Association Releases 2024 Policy Priorities to Accelerate Innovation Economy

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 02:48:41 GMT

Indianapolis, IN – The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) released its 2024 policy priorities to accelerate the Indiana innovation economy today during its annual Legislative Update event with TechPoint.

The Legislative Update brings together Indiana’s technology and innovation leaders with state legislators on Organization Day to mark the ceremonial start of the 2024 Legislative Session. This year marks the fifth anniversary of ITIA’s formation to educate and advocate for policy that advances Indiana’s technology industry.

All four caucus leaders – Indiana Senate President Pro Tempore Rod Bray, House Speaker Todd Huston, House Democratic Leader Phil GiaQuinta and Senate Minority Leader Greg Taylor – provided remarks and attended the event, along with several dozen state legislators and more than one hundred tech and innovation executives.

“In today’s economy, technology touches every industry,” said ITIA Executive Director Jennifer Hallowell. “It’s essential that Indiana embraces policy to accelerate entrepreneurship, fuel innovation, support and attract the jobs and companies of tomorrow, and prepare our workforce with the skills needed to thrive in the digital economy.”

According to CompTIA Cyberstates 2023, Indiana’s technology industry produced 118,872 net new jobs in 2022 and generated a $16 billion economic impact on our state. The National Skills Coalition reports that 92 percent of all jobs now require digital skills.

ITIA advocates for policy across four key pillars – Talent, Capital, Place and Equity.

ITIA’s 2024 policy priorities include:

Unlocking a second round of state investment into the Indiana Next Level Fund to further accelerate the availability of capital for Indiana companies at the growth stage.
Tracking entrepreneurial data and encouraging new businesses to start as part of the Right to Start framework.
Providing regulatory predictability to attract emerging digital asset mining/blockchain operations to Indiana.
Encouraging policymaker education around AI, and advocating for balanced AI regulation that is interoperable with existing laws and regulations with a preference toward global and/or federal standards.

Including computer science as a high school graduation requirement to ensure all Hoosier students gain the foundational skills needed to succeed in the 21st century workforce and economy.

Creating incentives for employers or intermediaries to develop and cover core academic costs (e.g. tuition, certification exam fees, instructional materials and more) for USDOL Registered Apprenticeships and/or Indiana State Earn & Learn (SEALs) apprenticeship programs in tech and innovation fields.

For more information and to join ITIA, visit www.IndianaTechnology.org.

IBJ: Tech parks could capture larger share of tax dollars

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 14:14:44 GMT

INDIANAPOLIS - A bill that would divert some $6 million in state and local tax revenue annually to state-certified technology parks has passed the Senate and is headed to the House, where similar legislation died two years ago.

Senate Bill 271 could immediately help 18 of Indiana’s 22 tech parks keep more of the sales and income taxes generated by the businesses within them. The money could be used to administer or expand the parks and their infrastructure, recruit additional companies or provide services to existing businesses.

The bill, authored by Sen. Brian Buchanan, R-Lebanon, could mean an additional $400,000 annually for most of the parks, money that otherwise would be allocated to state and local government general funds. Sen. Travis Holdman, R-Markle, chair of the Senate Tax & Fiscal Policy Committee, signed on as the bill’s co-author, a move that strengthens its chance of final passage.

The Senate voted unanimously Tuesday to advance SB 271 to the House. But its prospects there are less certain.

Buchanan authored a similar bill in 2021 that would have provided tech parks with $250,000 in additional annual revenue. That bill passed the Senate but never had a hearing in a House committee.

“It boils down to continued job growth and development,” Buchanan said. “That’s the purpose of the bill.”

The state’s certified tech park program was created by a 2002 law that sought to boost economic development and job growth by focusing on jobs in industries such as microelectronics, biotechnology, engineering and laboratory testing, environmental technology, medical devices and advanced vehicle technology.

The law let cities and counties apply to the Indiana Economic Development Corp. for authority to designate an area for high-tech development. The application required cities to have at least one company committed to the tech park that planned to create a “significant number of jobs” and a comprehensive business plan or at least one other partner or program, which could include a university, military installation or facility, or an existing or planned business incubator.

The parks are allowed to raise private money and accept grants and other outside funding.

But to give the operations a boost, the law allows the parks to collect what’s called “incremental” income and sales tax revenue generated within the park’s boundaries. That essentially means state and local tax revenue that results from new development at the park—on top of the amount of tax revenue that already was generated in the designated area.

Tax-increment-financing districts, which are designated locally for development, operate in a similar way. And in fact, cities and counties can also designate the tech parks as TIF districts, allowing them to capture incremental property tax revenue, as well.

The original state law capped the total sales and income tax revenue a tech park could collect at $5 million (not including property tax revenue it might generate through a TIF district).

To date, the state has certified 26 parks statewide, though only 22 remain active. Of those, 18 have hit the $5 million cap, according to an analysis by the nonpartisan Legislative Services Agency.

So in 2020, lawmakers passed a bill allowing parks to capture up to $100,000 a year in additional state and local income tax revenue after they reached their $5 million cap.

Buchanan’s bill would raise that amount to $500,000.

The change would result in the loss of about $4.5 million in annual revenue to the state beginning in fiscal year 2024, while local governments would lose about $1.8 million per year, according to an LSA analysis. Those amounts would increase slightly in later years if all the tech parks reached their $5 million cap.

Tech community support

Supporters of the legislation say local communities directly benefit from job creation that stems from cultivating businesses in the parks.

Jennifer Hallowell, executive director of the Indiana Technology & Innovation Association, which represents tech companies and entrepreneurs in Indiana, said the parks will continue to change and grow as new thinkers enter the space.

“The idea here is not that we launched these many years ago and it’s the same firms,” Hallowell said. “We’re continuing to grow and launch new businesses; it’s an incubator of sorts.”

Ted Baker, CEO of the Muncie Innovation Center, a business incubator in the Ontario Place Tech Park, said the funding is for growth.

“Receiving this funding is not about sustainability—it’s about growing Indiana’s tech sector,” Baker said, noting that the Muncie incubator plans to expand from 16,000 square feet to 45,000 square feet.

Baker also serves as executive director of the tech park, which is in an area that was once an abandoned manufacturing facility and retail space. He said companies in the park increased their employment levels from 935 jobs in 2018 to 1,314 jobs in 2021, a 40% increase. The average wage for employees in the park is about $66,000, he said.

David Bolling is executive director of Launch Fishers, which is in the Nickel Plate District Certified Technology Park. He said the incubator and coworking space currently has 130 member companies representing nearly 600 employees.

In addition, he said, outside investors have poured $110 million in capital into Launch Fishers companies over the past eight years.

“These are important initiatives for the state to undertake to support businesses at the ground level,” Bolling said. “These are companies that are grinding it out, day in and day out.”

Kent Parisien, who serves on the board of WestGate Authority, which governs the WestGate@Crane Technology Park, said the legislation will allow the park to bolster efforts to bring high-tech businesses and jobs to Indiana.

“To date, the WestGate@Crane Technology Park has captured a total of $15.9 million in state incremental tax revenues,” Parisien said. “This has allowed the technology park to leverage additional public and private investments, bringing our total investment to $114.6 million.”

The WestGate tech park is allowed to capture more revenue than other parks because it spans three counties, which allowed it to capture $15 million total from sales and income taxes before it started collecting the supplemental tax revenue.

SB 271 also has support from the Indiana Chamber of Commerce.

Accountability added

As passed by the Senate, the bill includes an amendment authored by Sen. Eddie Melton, D-Gary, that aims to better track what’s happening in tech parks.

It requires the Indiana Economic Development Corp. to submit a report to the State Budget Committee every other year that provides details about each park. Melton said the information would help lawmakers better understand how the parks are operating.

“It would be great information for us to have,” he said. “The state is investing significant amounts of resources” in the parks.

The report must include the number of businesses in each park engaged in high-tech activity, the number of businesses that have left the park and where they moved, the number of employees at each company, the average annual wage paid to those workers, and the total capital investment by each business.•

Inside Indiana Business: Lawmakers should embrace and support Hoosier entrepreneurs

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 14:02:12 GMT

I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Indiana lawmakers about House Bill 1345, legislation that would make it easier for innovators and entrepreneurs like me to get their business underway and to bring great jobs to Hoosiers.

It was great to see the House Government and Regulatory Reform Committee approve the bill on a 9-4 vote, and I was encouraged to see our lawmakers taking such positive action. Two of my colleagues, Dronedek’s Chief Strategy Officer Neerav Shah, and our Sales Director, Jake Mills, later testified in support of HB 1344, another bill that supports entrepreneurs.

Both pieces of legislation would help startups – something Indiana needs to do because the state currently ranks 44th in the nation for how well it fosters entrepreneurship, per Kauffman Indicators of Entrepreneurship. Each of the bills were heard in the House Government and Regulatory Reform Committee. HB 1345 passed the committee by a 9-4 vote. HB 1344 did not receive a vote. Unfortunately, that means they won’t progress further this year.

The funny thing about us making time to go down to the Indiana Statehouse to talk with legislators about these bills is that our company won’t benefit from them. We’ve been fortunate to move beyond five years in operation and we are proud to have been hitting all of our strategic milestones, but it wasn’t easy. We believe Indiana must do a better job of supporting entrepreneurs who have great ideas and just might have the next globally significant company coming out of Indiana.

I’m not generally someone who gets involved in creating new laws, and Dronedek as a company hasn’t been active in calling on the General Assembly to act. I believe we’re all usually better off if the government stays out of our daily lives. But my team and I took time from working to perfect our smart mailbox, raising money to fund our 15+ workforce and production needs and dealing with the various issues of the day, because the support these bills would provide is sorely needed.

Authored by Representative Jake Teshka, HB 1345 would have waived requirements for new businesses and establish a “regulatory sandbox” program that would make it easier for small businesses to thrive. Representative Teshka also authored HB 1344, which focused on Indiana businesses that have been in operation for fewer than five years and would have, among other things, encouraged the state to allocate 5 percent of workforce and economic development funding to them, along with eliminating first year business fees.

Anyone who’s tried to start a business knows how easy it is to get tangled up in red tape and fees. We’re making the next-generation mailbox and are one of the first companies to hold patents on a smart mailbox, which is part of the emerging autonomous delivery sector. You can’t imagine the regulatory hurdles and issues we’ve faced.

Small businesses like Dronedek represent 99.4% of all businesses in Indiana, and we employ 44 percent of the Hoosiers who work. It seems to me that our lawmakers should do all they can to help us grow.

Indiana has done some great work in attracting, retaining and growing existing and large corporations, but it hasn’t focused enough on doing the same for new business creation and entrepreneurship.

House Bill 1345 would have reduced barriers to entry for new companies to bring innovative services, products, and business models to market. That would help companies and consumers in emerging fields like drone delivery, the Internet of Things, financial technology and more. The program it creates would allow us to innovate and test products and offerings without the burden of costly and cumbersome regulations and licensing. At least 11 states have established regulatory sandbox programs, including states like Arizona and North Carolina that are leaders in growing and attracting tech and innovation jobs.

Bills like HB 1344 and 1355 are how we encourage and support Indiana entrepreneurs and how we develop the next great technology right here in Indiana.

Folks, we’re living in a Digital Age not far off from a pop culture inflection point with autonomous deliveries being as expected and commonplace as when smartphones became the social norm. It’s high time we widen entrepreneurs’ pathway to production and progress.

Helping Hoosier businesses get to markets sooner means more fuel for Indiana’s economy, better jobs for its people and better lives for everyone.

We were proud to join with the Indiana Technology Innovation Association to support this legislation, and we’ll be back supporting it next year. That’s more government interaction than I’ll have had in the past decade, but it’s an investment worth making. If you’re an innovator or small business person in Indiana, I invite you to join me.

Dan O’Toole is the founder and CEO of Dronedek, a patent holder and serial entrepreneur. Dronedek, headquartered in Lawrence, is one of the first companies in the world to focus on package security for traditional and autonomous delivery methods. https://www.dronedek.com.

Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) Releases 2023 Policy Priorities to Accelerate the Innovation Economy

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 14:27:08 GMT

Indianapolis, IN – The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) today released its 2023 policy priorities to accelerate the innovation economy.

ITIA announced its priorities at its annual Legislative Update event co-hosted by TechPoint and sponsored by AT&T and Salesforce. Nearly 130 tech leaders, two dozen state legislators and several members of the Governor’s administration attended.

ITIA’s priorities this year focus on expanding access to capital, supporting a diverse tech workforce and enabling a thriving tech and innovation ecosystem to support tech job growth and fuel entrepreneurship.

“Now is the time to accelerate Indiana’s commitment to supporting and growing the high-wage, high-tech jobs of the future,” said ITIA Board Chair David Becker, Chairman and CEO of First Internet Bank. “Indiana is well-positioned to embrace and be a leader in the innovation economy, but it’s going to take an intentional, collaborative effort to unleash capital, address our talent needs and dramatically boost entrepreneurship.”

Indiana’s technology industry continues to grow and contributed $51 billion to Indiana’s GDP in 2021. With an estimated median wage of $76,254, median tech wages are 99% higher than the median state wage (CompTIA Cyberstates 2022).

While Indiana has been successful at attracting and retaining large and existing corporations, our state ranks low for new business creation. According to the2021 Kauffman Entrepreneurial Indicators, Indiana ranks 44th out of 50 states for rate of new entrepreneurs. Yet, new and young companies are responsible for nearly all net new job creation in the U.S.

“We need to do everything we can to support and accelerate entrepreneurship in Indiana,” said ITIA Executive Director Jennifer Hallowell. “The State of Indiana can continue to lead by removing barriers to entrepreneurship and investing in the talent and capital needed to start and grow an innovation-based venture.”

ITIA’s 2023 Policy Agenda includes the following priorities:

Policies that Expand Access to Capital at All Stages of Growth

Continued and robust investment in the 21st Century Research and Technology Fund, which funds critical and proven programs including Elevate Ventures and the SBIR/STTR matching grant program.
Additional state investment into the Next Level Indiana Fund to further accelerate the availability of capital for Indiana companies at the growth stage.
A focus on ensuring women, minority and veteran entrepreneurs have access to capital at all stages.

Policies that Develop, Attract and Retain a Diverse Tech Workforce

Including computer science and technology as a high school graduation requirement to equip more students with technology skills, particularly girls and students of color.
Funding and incentives for technology-focused career exploration and discovery programs, such as robotics.
Support for apprenticeships, internships and other pathways into the tech industry.
Incentives and efforts to retain and attract talent in Indiana.

Policies that Enable a Thriving Tech Ecosystem

Removing barriers to entrepreneurship and a dedicated effort to support new business creation.
A data privacy law that is interoperable with other state privacy laws in order to create consistent robust privacy protections and reduce implementation burdens.
Continued expansion of high performing Certified Tech Parks (CTPs) by increasing the maximum allowable CTP capture.
Efforts to accelerate broadband and fiber deployment.

ITIA is the statewide association representing technology and innovation-driven companies, entrepreneurs and partners working together to advance the state’s tech and innovation ecosystem.

For more information about ITIA and Membership, visit www.IndianaTechnology.org.

IBJ: Tax-credit online marketplace creates connections for more deals

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 15:08:13 GMT

Indiana’s entrepreneurial community has high hopes that a new online tax-credit marketplace will help attract more out-of-state investment in Hoosier startups.

Last month, the Indianapolis-based not-for-profit TechPoint launched the Indiana VCI Marketplace—a first-of-its-kind tool for connecting potential buyers and sellers of Indiana’s Venture Capital Investment tax credit.

“That’s such a great opportunity. Out-of-state investors will be able to sell those tax credits to Hoosiers who have a tax liability,” said Jenny Massey, the Indianapolis-based national director of site selection and incentives for Chicago-based Sikich LLP.

“I totally expect to see an increase in out-of-state venture capital activity in Indiana because of this.”

The tax credit itself, which serves as an incentive to invest in Hoosier startups and small companies, has been around since 2003.

But the Legislature tweaked the program. Since July 1, 2020, investors have had the ability to sell their VCI tax credits—making the program more appealing to out-of-state investors who don’t pay Indiana taxes.

As an example: An out-of-state firm or individual invests $1 million in a Hoosier startup and receives a VCI tax credit worth 25% of that investment.

The investor then sells that $250,000 tax credit for $200,000 to an Indiana taxpayer, who can use the credit to reduce his or her state tax liability.

But until now, there hasn’t been a central marketplace to facilitate these transactions. So it hasn’t always been easy for out-of-state investors to monetize their VCI tax credits.

The buying and selling of VCI tax credits has taken place mostly through informal channels and personal networks. Often, the burden of making those connections has fallen on the small business that received the investment.

“Your ability to do that successfully is going to be dependent on how sophisticated you are and who you know,” said John McDonald, the managing entrepreneur at Indianapolis-based venture studio Next Studios.

McDonald is also a board member at the Indiana Technology and Innovation Association, a tech-industry group that lobbied for the creation of a marketplace.

Experienced and well-connected founders have so far had an advantage over greener entrepreneurs in brokering VCI tax-credit transactions, but the marketplace now helps level the playing field, McDonald said.

How the marketplace works

Potential VCI tax-credit buyers and sellers can signal their interest in deals by completing an online form at techpoint.org/vci-marketplace. (VCI tax credits must be worth at least $10,000 to be eligible for sale.)

When a tax credit becomes available for sale, TechPoint sends an anonymized notice to potential buyers, who can then notify TechPoint of their interest in the deal. TechPoint initiates an email introduction between the seller and the highest bidder.

Once the parties agree on a deal, they contact the Indiana Economic Development Corp.—which administers the VCI tax credit program—to complete paperwork with that agency.

TechPoint has committed to making introductions within 10 days of receiving deal queries.

The organization is not involved in setting the terms of deals and it does not charge any fees for handling the transaction.

“Both the reach and the velocity should be very attractive compared to the old method,” said TechPoint CEO Ting Gootee, who came up with the idea for the marketplace. “A lot of people recognize the value and need for it.”

TechPoint was the natural entity to run the marketplace for several reasons, Gootee said.

The organization exists to support and grow Indiana’s tech sector, and it’s already plugged into a network of entrepreneurs and investors.

“It makes sense for us to do it because we have the knowledge base, we have the investors … and we’re not looking to monetize this,” she said.

Having a not-for-profit such as TechPoint run the marketplace makes a lot of sense, said Indianapolis attorney Jeff Kirk, a partner at Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP who leads the firm’s venture capital group in Indiana.

A for-profit operator would want to charge a transaction fee and do a certain volume of transactions in order to make money from the marketplace, Kirk said. “I’m excited that Ting and the rest of the TechPoint organization have decided to go down this path.”

The marketplace launched with one potential seller and 20 others who signaled interest in either buying those tax credits or learning about future transactions, TechPoint said.

The marketplace platform was built to be scalable, Gootee said, and it could handle up to thousands of potential buyers and sellers as interest and awareness grows.

It’s also possible that the marketplace will become a searchable database at some point. Right now, it exists only as a portal for submitting information to TechPoint.

“This is our initial product,” she said. “Based on market demand, we’ll keep an open mind to how this may evolve to the next phases.”

Demand increasing

VCI tax credit transfer activity is modest but has grown in the two years since state law began allowing such transactions.

According to IEDC data, two VCI tax credit transfers took place from July to December in 2020. The following year, 19 such transactions took place. And 22 transactions have occurred through August this year.

The VCI program has also seen substantial increases in out-of-state investment since 2020.

From 2006 to 2019, IEDC data shows, about 5% of planned VCI investments, or $31.2 million, came from out-of-state investors. In 2020 and 2021, 22.5% of planned VCI investments, or $28.1 million, came from out-of-state investors.

(The numbers reflect planned investments because they are based on proposals investors must submit to the IEDC before investments are made. Investors then have two years to make those investments and receive VCI tax credits.)

“We are encouraged by the out-of-state investment interest we’ve seen already since 2020 with [the] addition of transferable tax credits, and we are hopeful that TechPoint’s new VCI Marketplace will lead to even better utilization of this offering,” IEDC Senior Vice President of Community Affairs Mark Wasky told IBJ via email.

The IEDC said it hasn’t set any specific goals regarding growth of out-of-state participation in the VCI program.

But the new marketplace is just one piece of a bigger picture when it comes to startup funding, Next Studios’ McDonald said.

For one thing, state law limits the amount of VCI tax credits that can be granted in a single year. This year, the Legislature set the cap at $20 million, up from the $12.5 million cap that had been in place since 2005.

That $12.5 million cap was reached in 2017 and 2019-2021. In 2018, 94.6% of available credits were awarded. This year, the state is on pace to hit the expanded cap, with 55.8% of available VCI tax credits awarded through Aug. 31.

McDonald said his organization plans to lobby the General Assembly to raise the cap again next year.

He said he has full confidence in TechPoint’s ability to publicize the marketplace. But he also noted that it will take time for the news to spread widely among out-of-state investors.

“Right now, it’s an awareness issue,” McDonald said. “It’s new even here in Indiana, to people in the know.”

Still, marketplace proponents are bullish on this new tool.

Massey said the marketplace and the VCI tax credit in general help Indiana compete.

She estimated that about half of U.S. states have some version of a VCI tax credit, though specifics vary from state to state.

Indiana’s new VCI marketplace, she said, will only boost the state’s appeal. “I have zero doubt that this is going to be good for the economy in Indiana.”•

ITIA Board Chair, CEO of First Internet Bank David Becker Appointed to Next Level Indiana Fund Investment Board

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 17:45:03 GMT

Indianapolis, IN – Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) Board Chair David Becker, Chairman and CEO of Fishers-based First Internet Bank, has been appointed to serve on the Next Level Indiana Fund Investment Board.

The Next Level Indiana Fund was created by the Indiana Legislature in 2017 to make investments in Indiana venture capital funds and Indiana companies using $250 million of allocated state funding.

Becker was appointed to the Next Level Indiana Fund Board by Speaker of the Indiana House of Representatives Todd Huston, following a new law passed during the 2022 legislative session that added additional appointments to the Board.

“The Next Level Indiana Fund is a critical economic development resource to attract more venture capital to Indiana, support the creation of new Indiana venture capital funds and accelerate growth of Indiana-based, innovation-driven companies,” Becker said. “I look forward to joining the Board and supporting the goals of the Fund to fuel Indiana’s tech and innovation industry.”

During this year's legislative session, ITIA supported legislation to expand the Next Level Indiana Fund Investment Board by adding two voting members with direct experience and knowledge in venture capital investment appointed by the Speaker of the House and the Senate President Pro Tempore. These additional appointments became law as part of Senate Enrolled Act 361.

Becker founded and serves as Chairman and CEO of First Internet Bancorp’s subsidiary, First Internet Bank, which opened for business in 1999 as an industry

pioneer in the branchless delivery of banking services. He has a 40-year career of creating successful entrepreneurial companies in financial services technology (“fintech”) and software-as-a-service (“SaaS), having created and sold five Inc. 500 companies.

Becker is also a founding member and the current Board Chair of the Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA), the statewide group of technology and innovation-driven companies and partners that seeks to elevate the role the tech community plays in shaping Indiana public policy.

“David Becker is a pioneer of Indiana’s technology industry with vast knowledge and experience in venture capital investing, both as a founder of multiple companies and as an investor,” said Jennifer Hallowell, ITIA Executive Director. “David is supremely positioned to serve in this capacity and help guide Next Level Indiana Fund activity to generate the greatest impact for our state and Indiana’s tech industry.”

Becker also serves on the Board of TechPoint, Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF) and Central Indiana Corporate Partnership (CICP).

For more information about the Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA), visit www.IndianaTechnology.org.

ITIA Board Member Christopher Day Named New CEO of Elevate Ventures

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 17:47:35 GMT

Congratulations to ITIA Board Member Christopher Day on being named the new CEO of Elevate Ventures!

Christopher Day is a founding Board Member of ITIA and most recently the co-founder and CEO of DemandJump, a leading artificial-intelligence-powered marketing strategy platform.

A long-time, successful entrepreneur, Day has co-founded or launched eight businesses in industries including artificial intelligence, billing software, utility hardware, broadband, entertainment, investment banking and real estate.

He's been a passionate leader for ITIA and helped champion positive policy change to support and grow Indiana's technology and innovation industry, including expanding the Venture Capital Investment tax credit, establishing the Next Level Fund and exempting Software-as-a-Service from the state's sales tax.

We're thrilled that Christopher will be leading Elevate, and look forward to continuing to work together to grow Indiana's tech, innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem!

Read more about today's announcement.

IBJ: Tech leaders say increasing support for new graduates, investors can strengthen tech sector

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 15:33:21 GMT

Eli Lilly and Co. CEO David Ricks made waves last week with his remarks that Indiana needs to improve on numerous metrics—education, health care, diversity, green energy and workforce development—to compete for jobs in the fast-growing technology, life sciences and engineering sectors.

Local tech leaders say they have some concrete ideas about how to achieve some of these things.

Ricks made his remarks April 20 at an Economic Club of Indiana luncheon. Then, during TechPoint’s Mira Awards gala on April 23, Angie’s List co-founder and long-time local tech leader Bill Oesterle referenced Ricks’ speech.

Calling Ricks’ speech “courageous and objective,” Oesterle challenged his audience of more than 1,200 to do their part to tackle the concerns Ricks had highlighted.

The Indiana Technology and Innovation Association, a lobbying group for the state’s tech industry, said attracting more venture capital is one way to bolster the state’s tech sector. To that end, it’s pushing for an expansion of existing state tax credits designed to spur investment.

“I think that we need to immediately shift more funding into making capital formation happen,” said association board member and Launch Fishers founder John Wechsler.

Wechsler pointed to Indiana’s existing venture capital investment tax credit program, which provides tax credits to those who provide debt or equity capital to Indiana companies. This year, up to $20 million worth of tax credits is available for investors.

Wechsler said the VCI tax credit is a valuable program that should be expanded. Half of that $20 million has already been committed for the year, Wechsler said, which makes it “highly likely” that the program will run out of funding by year’s end. This is especially problematic, he said, because the end of the year is typically a busy time for investors as they seek to deploy investments and lock in year-end tax advantages.

Megan Glover, who is also co-founder of Zionsville-based tech startup 120Water and an association board member, said availability of VCI tax credits can have a huge impact on how much—or whether—an investor is willing to put money into a company like 120Water.

“I’ve had to postpone [funding] rounds because the VCI has expired or that the allotment for that year is over,” Glover said. “I’ve had people decrease their check size because of the amount that they will get in return. So it’s absolutely impactful for entrepreneurs.”

Investment is tied to another issued that Ricks touched on in his April 20 speech—the need to improve workforce development and talent attraction in Indiana.

Glover said potential investors always want to know about access to local talent—whether the company in which they might invest will be able to find enough qualified employees to execute on its growth plans.

“We’re not going to have more investment here if we don’t have the talent to put to work,” Glover said.

WTWO: Terre Haute business leaders discuss Indiana’s tech ecosystem

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 18:53:06 GMT

Terre Haute area entrepreneurs and business leaders discussed ways to grow Indiana’s tech ecosystem Tuesday.

Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) and the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce held a lunch meeting in efforts to involve the community with the shaping policy to grow Indiana’s tech ecosystem.

Attendees heard from association board members about efforts to bring the tech and innovation community together. They also educated leaders about the issues impacting the industry.

ITIA Board Member Shelley Klingerman said Terre Haute is a great place to inform business leaders about what’s happening at the state level.

“Terre Haute is a hub for entrepreneurs, tech companies, and startups,” Klingerman said. “It”s really important for those entrepreneurs to know what is going on at the state level and connect with other companies around the state.”

Klingerman said most companies now a days are inevitably tech companies.

“This conversation is going to affect you in some way shape or form in your business and it’s better to be at the table,” Kingerman said.

For further information contact the Indiana Technology & Innovation Association or Launch Terre Haute.

Read more https://www.mywabashvalley.com/news/local-news/terre-haute-business-leaders-discuss-indianas-tech-ecosystem/

Terre Haute Tribune Star: Terre Haute leaders, entrepreneurs invited to lunch meeting

Sun, 17 Apr 2022 18:54:36 GMT

Terre Haute area entrepreneurs, startups and business leaders are invited to join the Indiana Technology & Innovation Association and the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce for a lunch meeting noon Tuesday at Launch Terre Haute located at 619 Cherry St.

Participants will hear about how the Indiana Technology & Innovation Association and its members are working bring the technology and innovation community together, educate state leaders on the issues impacting the industry, and strengthen the business environment for technology and innovation-driven companies to start and grow in Indiana.

“ITIA is working to expand access to venture capital, grow the tech talent pipeline and make Indiana a leader as we shift to a 21st century data-centric economy,” said ITIA Executive Director Jennifer Hallowell. “We’re excited to partner with the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce, meet with leaders in Terre Haute to hear about the issues important to them, and work together to grow Indiana’s tech and innovation industry.”

The event is free and lunch is included. To register, go to www.indianatechnology.org/event-4724528.

Read more https://www.tribstar.com/news/local_news/terre-haute-leaders-entrepreneurs-invited-to-lunch-meeting/article_f7de803c-f502-5ff6-bd6b-6503603f8645.html

Terre Haute Entrepreneurs, Startups and Business Leaders Invited to April 19th Event to Get Involved in Shaping Policy to Grow Indiana’s Tech Ecosystem

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 14:44:28 GMT

Terre Haute, IN – Terre Haute area entrepreneurs, startups and business leaders are invited to join the Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) and the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce for a lunch meeting on Tuesday, April 19^th to learn how they can get involved in shaping policy to grow Indiana’s tech ecosystem.

Attendees will hear from ITIA Board Members about how the Indiana Technology & Innovation Association and its members are working bring the technology and innovation community together, educate state leaders on the issues impacting the industry, and strengthen the business environment for technology and innovation-driven companies to start and grow in Indiana.

“ITIA is working to expand access to venture capital, grow the tech talent pipeline and make Indiana a leader as we shift to a 21^stcentury data-centric economy,” said ITIA Executive Director Jennifer Hallowell. “We’re excited to partner with the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce, meet with leaders in Terre Haute to hear about the issues important to them, and work together to grow Indiana’s tech and innovation industry.”

What: Meeting with Indiana Technology & Innovation Association and Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce to get involved in shaping policy to grow Indiana’s tech ecosystem

When: Tuesday, April 19, 12-1pm

Where: Launch Terre Haute, 619 Cherry St, Terre Haute, IN 47807

There is no cost to attend this event and lunch is included. To register, click here.

ITIA is the statewide group of technology-driven companies and partners who seek to elevate the role the tech community plays in shaping Indiana public policy. For more information about ITIA and membership, visit www.IndianaTechnology.org.

ITIA Celebrates Black History Month, Showcases Entrepreneurs of Color in Latest Episode of Indiana Innovates

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 14:42:18 GMT

Indianapolis, IN – The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) is celebrating Black History Month with the release of its latest Indiana Innovates episode, showcasing founders and entrepreneurs of color.

The episode features interviews with the founders of Indianapolis-based Chuqlab, Carmel-based PEAKMind and the EXHALE App, as well as with the State of Indiana’s first-ever Chief Equity, Inclusion and Opportunity Officer Karrah Herring on state initiatives to improve diversity and equity.

“Indiana’s tech and innovation industry is diverse and thriving,” said ITIA Executive Director and host of Indiana Innovates Jennifer Hallowell. “We’re excited to dedicate this month’s episode of Indiana Innovates to showcasing founders and entrepreneurs of color doing incredible work across our state.”

This month’s episode of Indiana Innovates celebrating Black History Month features interviews with:

Cornelius George, Co-Founder and CEO of Indianapolis-based Chuqlab, on his crime fighting tool CrimeMiner
Alicia Mckoy, Founder and CEO of Carmel-based PEAKMind, on her platform that's helping companies create a healthier work culture for employees
Katara McCarty, President and CEO of Katecha Corp, on her celebrated EXHALE app, which is the first emotional well-being app designed specifically for Black, Indigenous, and Women of Color
Karrah Herring, the State of Indiana's first-ever Chief Equity, Inclusion and Opportunity Officer

The episode is co-hosted by Hallowell and ITIA Equity Committee Co-Chair Juliana Casavan, Operations Manager at MatchBOX Coworking Studio in Lafayette.

Indiana Innovates is a monthly web show to highlight Indiana’s growing tech industry, share tech-related news, feature innovative products and companies, and provide tech policy updates. The show, which launched in October 2021, is produced by Fishers-based digital marketing company MediaFuel.

To watch the Black History Month episode of Indiana Innovates as well as past episodes, visit www.IndianaInnovates.com.

Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) Announces 2022 Policy Priorities for Tech Industry

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 13:53:12 GMT

Indianapolis, IN – The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) today announced its 2022 policy priorities for the tech industry during its annual Legislative Update event co-hosted by TechPoint which brought together Indiana tech leaders and state legislators.

ITIA is the statewide association representing Indiana’s technology-driven companies and partners.

ITIA’s 2022 priorities focus on accelerating deployment of Indiana Next Level Fund dollars into Indiana-based funds and companies, attracting tech talent and remote workers to Indiana, improving statewide digital connectivity, and improving diversity and inclusion in state job training and workforce development programs.

Technology is among Indiana’s fastest growing sectors, with more than 184,000 net tech jobs posted this year generating a $51 billion impact on our economy. With an average wage of $69,813, median tech wages in Indiana are 73% higher than the median state wage (CompTIA Cyberstates 2021).

While the tech industry is poised for continued growth, Indiana ranks low in the amount of venture capital being deployed to Indiana companies and low for entrepreneurship, which are critical drivers for the industry. The Indiana Chamber of Commerce 2021 Report Card shows that while investment dollars to Indiana companies have increased in recent years, the state's ranking for venture capital activity declined from 30^th to 36^th compared to other states. Indiana also ranks 42^nd out of 50 states for entrepreneurship, according to the Kauffman Entrepreneurial Index.

“Indiana’s technology and innovation industry continues to demonstrate its growth, resilience and ability to transform our regional economies with high-skilled, high-wage jobs,” said David Becker, Chairman and CEO of First Internet Bank and ITIA Board Chair. “There is also an incredible amount of untapped potential in the industry which can be unlocked by injecting capital into the ecosystem to ensure Indiana entrepreneurs can access needed funding to start and grow their companies.”

One of ITIA’s key priorities for 2022 is to accelerate deployment of Indiana Next Level Fund dollars, direct investment into Indiana-based funds and companies, and support the creation of new Indiana-based venture capital funds. The Indiana Next Level Fund was established by the Legislature in 2017 allocating $250M to make investments in Indiana venture funds and businesses.

“We’re incredibly supportive of Indiana’s Next Level Fund and want to ensure those dollars are deployed as quickly as possible into Indiana-based funds and companies to make the most impact at a critical time in our economy,” Becker said. “We also want to achieve the goal of creating new venture capital funds in Indiana that can support ongoing entrepreneurial activity across the state.”

ITIA is also advocating for incentives to attract high-value tech talent and remote workers to the state to help address talent needs for the industry.

According to a June 2021 Remote Worker Survey by Indiana-based MakeMyMove, more than thirty million workers are now permanently remote and nearly one third of these workers plan to move in the next 18 months.

“There is a real opportunity to attract high-value tech talent to our state, particularly workers who are now remote and have greater mobility,” Becker said, “Indiana can capitalize on this opportunity and bring in talent to contribute to our economy and help expand our tech talent pipeline.”

ITIA’s policy priorities encompass four key pillars to encourage growth in Indiana’s technology and innovation industry, and 2022 focus areas include:

Expanding Access to Capital

ITIA supports policies to accelerate deployment of Next Level Fund dollars, direct investment into Indiana-based funds and companies, and support the creation of new Indiana-based venture capital funds.

Developing and Attracting Tech Talent

ITIA supports state- and local-based incentives for attracting individuals to move to Indiana who can work remotely.
ITIA supports innovative ways to update the state’s economic development tools to assist in bringing high-value talent to Indiana, as well as ways to help communities finance talent attraction efforts that drive regional growth.
ITIA supports new incentives or adjusting Indiana’s existing incentives, such as the Skills Enhancement Fund (SEF) or EDGE tax credits, to include the creation of internship or apprenticeship programs that train tech talent and lead to employment.

Improving Quality of Place

ITIA supports efforts to accelerate fiber deployment to improve connectivity across the State.
ITIA supports the continued expansion of high performing Certified Tech Parks (CTPs) by increasing the maximum allowable CTP capture per year from $100,000 to $500,000.

Promoting Diversity, Inclusion and Equity

ITIA supports efforts to promote and market state job training and workforce programs, specifically in tech fields, to women, minorities and veterans.

ITIA’s complete policy agenda can be found here.

ITIA is the statewide association representing Indiana’s technology-driven companies and partners. For more information about ITIA and membership, visit www.IndianaTechnology.org.

Indiana Technology & Innovation Association Launches Monthly Show “Indiana Innovates” to Showcase Indiana’s Growing Tech Industry

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 13:46:37 GMT

Indianapolis, IN – The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) today launched a new monthly show Indiana Innovates to showcase Indiana’s growing tech industry, share tech-related news, feature innovative products and companies, and provide tech policy updates.

Indiana Innovates is presented by Fishers-based digital marketing company MediaFuel utilizing its cutting-edge video production technology and virtual studio.

Indiana Innovates is hosted by ITIA Executive Director Jennifer Hallowell and a rotating co-host. The inaugural episode, released today, features John Wechsler, Founder and CEO of Launch Fishers and the Indiana IoT Lab, as co-host.

“We’re excited to launch Indiana Innovates to help amplify the incredible momentum and growth occurring in Indiana’s technology and innovation industry,” Jennifer Hallowell said. “Indiana Innovates will feature innovative products, companies, ideas, entrepreneurs and events from across the state to tell our state’s tech story and showcase why Indiana is the best place to live and work in tech. It will also be an opportunity to share relevant policy updates impacting tech companies and tech talent.”

The inaugural episode of Indiana Innovates features exclusive content and interviews with:
Gerry Dick, Co-Founder and President of Grow Indiana Media Ventures, on the recent acquisition of Inside INdiana Business by IBJ Media
Andy Lehman, Head of Accelerator Programming at The Mill, with a rundown on the finalists at the annual Crossroads Pitch Competition held in Bloomington on October 13^th
Bill Soards, President of AT&T Indiana, on the upcoming AT&T 5G Sports Hack-a-thon being held at Butler University on October 22-24
Jeff Kivett, Founder & Visionary of MediaFuel, on its state-of-the-art video production technology and virtual studio
Ting Gootee, Chief Investment Officer at Elevate Ventures, on the expansion of the state funding match for the federal Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grants

“Our first show includes an exclusive interview with Inside INdiana Business’ Gerry Dick who has pioneered media coverage of Indiana’s tech and innovation ecosystem since its inception, as well as segments highlighting entrepreneurial events across the state and a key policy change allowing for increased funding to Indiana startups,” said co-host John Wechsler. “It’s a fantastic first show, and we look forward to continuing to share innovative initiatives within Indiana’s tech community each month.”

To watch the inaugural episode of Indiana Innovates, visit www.IndianaInnovates.com. Each month, Indiana Innovates will be released on this website, sent as an exclusive to ITIA Members over email and shared on social media.

The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association is the statewide association representing technology-driven companies and partners collaborating to make sure Indiana is the best place to live and work in tech.

Membership to ITIA is open to all technology-driven companies and partners. For more information about ITIA and membership, visit www.IndianaTechnology.org.

Inside Indiana Business: Indiana Tech Association Outlines Legislative Priorities

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 14:58:48 GMT

INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association has released its policy agenda for the 2021 legislative session. The association says Indiana's tech sector saw more than 184,000 net jobs this year, creating an economic impact of $15.6 billion. However, the pandemic has been detrimental to innovation and entrepreneurship throughout the state, according to the ITIA.

As a result, the association's priorities will focus on "shoring up support for state programs and efforts that facilitate entrepreneurs, drive new business creation, help grow tech and innovation jobs and attract tech talent to fuel our state’s economic recovery."

The priorities were outlined Thursday during a virtual presentation:

“Ensuring Indiana’s entrepreneurs and startups have access to capital, talent and resources to grow companies and create jobs is more urgent now than ever before as our state and local economies work to rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said David Becker, board chair of the ITIA and chief executive officer of Fishers-based First Internet Bank. “Now is the time to double down on Indiana’s support for entrepreneurs, innovators, startups and small businesses as an engine to fuel our recovery, and ensure that Indiana is best positioned to welcome the tech jobs and workers of the future.”

Additionally, the association's priorities include expanding access to capital for tech companies, growing the tech talent pipeline, enhancing quality of life and place throughout the state, and improving diversity, inclusion and equity.

Some of the specific policies outlined for the next legislative session include:

Encourage robust investment in the 21st Century Research and Technology Fund, which funds critical and proven programs to support entrepreneurs and early-stage tech companies, including the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grants.
Strengthen commitment to the Venture Capital Investment tax credit program by raising the annual cap and supporting future expansions of the program to better compete with neighboring states that offer larger credits.
Continued funding and resources to help Indiana schools meet the requirement to provide computer science education by 2021.
Implement state- and local-based incentives for attracting individuals to move to Indiana who can work remotely, i.e. clarify that remote workers are eligible for EDGE tax credits.
Continued support for high performing Certified Tech Parks (CTPs), and reauthorization of Indiana’s Entrepreneur and Enterprise District programs to encourage, develop and support entrepreneurship and small business development.
Identify and remove barriers to developing, testing and deploying autonomous vehicle technology.
Require State-funded entities, such as the IEDC, Elevate Ventures, and Next Level Fund, that invest in Indiana businesses or venture funds receiving state dollars to record and report annually on the number of investments and the amount of money invested into women, minority and veteran owned companies.

You can view the ITIA's full list of legislative priorities in the document below or by clicking here.

IBJ: Legislative priorities for tech industry include focus on diversity, inclusion

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 14:57:41 GMT

The lobbying organization for the state’s tech industry is wading into diversity and social justice issues with its legislative priorities for the upcoming session.

The Indiana Technology and Innovation Association, which represents more than 100 members from large technology companies and small startups, announced its legislative agenda on Thursday—and about a quarter of the items are focused on equity and inclusion.

For the past two years, the group has focused its priorities in three key areas— talent, capital and place. Those areas remain on the agenda this year, but the organization has also added equity as a fourth topic to focus on.

Entrepreneur Ade Olonoh, who chairs the association’s equity committee, said diversity and inclusion wasn’t necessarily a new focus for the group, but after the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, members felt like it needed to have a stronger emphasis.

Olonoh said inclusion connects back to the association’s overall goal—to make Indiana competitive in the tech industry—because being competitive means attracting a diverse talent pool, and the state needs to be seen as welcoming and inclusive in order to attract diverse talent.

Olonoh, who is Black, said areas like accountability in government agencies and law enforcement can directly impact how friendly a state or city seems to minorities.

“It really has to kind of start at the foundational level,” Olonoh said.

Several of the priorities this year call for more transparency, including requiring state-funded entities like the Indiana Economic Development Corp. and Elevate Ventures to record and report annually on how much funding is going to women, minority and veteran-owned businesses and creating a public disparity data portal to show how state programs are working and identify disparities.

“We may look at those numbers and feel great about it,” Olonoh said. “But without that data it’s hard to say where there are problems.”

The organization also wants to see a statewide public law enforcement database created to provide information to the public on egregious officer misconduct, detentions and use-of-force, as well as demographic information about arrests and detainees.

And that’s not the only suggested improvement for law enforcement. The group also supports reviewing and updating use-of-force policies, implementing wide-ranging crisis response programs, requiring implicit bias and cultural competency training, adding more civilian representation to the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy Board and ensuring access to mental health and support services for officers.

The association would also like to see some criminal justice reform by diverting nonviolent offenders away from prison and increasing access to mental health and substance abuse treatment.

“I’m optimistic, … but I’m sure it’s going to be some tough conversations because of how charged these issues are,” Olonoh said.

Some of the priorities already align with what Gov. Eric Holcomb has said he would like to pursue and what the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus has said it would like to see accomplished.

Other equity-focused priorities for ITIA include:

Encouraging state agencies and state-funded entities to make an effort to diversify their staffs and ensure individuals from underrepresented populations are in leadership roles.
Conducting a study on racial inequity as a public health crisis.
Expanding the Last Mile program, which provides training for incarcerated individuals to prepare them for successful reentry.
Making computer science more welcoming for girls and students of color.

The group is also proposing a hate crimes law that explicitly says crimes motivated by a victim’s race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, disability, gender, age, political affiliation, sexual orientation or gender identity are eligible for harsher penalties.

The state passed a hate crimes law in 2019, but it doesn’t specifically list all of those traits. It references a list in another state law that includes color, creed, disability, national origin, race, religion and sexual orientation.

Some business leaders who had pushed for the hate crimes legislation accepted the language as good enough, even if it wasn’t exactly what they wanted.

Members of the tech association believe it could be better.

“I’m glad we have something on the books, but I think it fell short,” Olonoh said.

The rest of the legislative agenda included items similar to what the group has focused on in previous years, such as maintaining or increasing funding for the 21st Century Research and Technology Fund, raising or eliminating the cap on the Venture Capital Investment tax credit program and increasing how much funding a Certified Tech Park can capture.

The organization would also like to see a strategy for improving broadband utilization. Holcomb’s administration has invested $100 million into a program to expand broadband access across the state, but data from the Federal Communications Commission shows that only 65% of Hoosiers who have access to broadband internet are paying to have it. The broadband adoption rate nationwide is close to 73%.

John Wechsler, founder and CEO of Launch Fishers, said it’s the classic technology adoption curve problem that occurred with other tech over the years, such as televisions or telephones.

“It’s actually quite an interesting conundrum,” Wechsler said.

Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) Unveils 2021 Tech Industry Policy Agenda; Urges State to Shore Up Support for Entrepreneurs, Startups, Small Business to Drive Economic Recovery

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 20:07:19 GMT

Indianapolis, IN – The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA), the statewide association of Indiana’s technology-driven companies and partners, today announced its 2021 policy agenda during a virtual meeting with tech industry leaders and state legislators co-hosted by TechPoint.

Technology is Indiana’s fastest growing sector, with more than 184,000 net tech jobs this year creating a $15.6B impact on our economy. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a detrimental effect on innovation and entrepreneurship that fuels tech job growth. According to new Kauffman Foundation research, the pandemic caused a sharp decline (37%) in new business creation in the first weeks of the pandemic, yielding a larger impact on entrepreneurship than the Great Recession.

Key to ITIA’s policy priorities this year will be shoring up support for state programs and efforts that facilitate entrepreneurs, drive new business creation, help grow tech and innovation jobs and attract tech talent to fuel our state’s economic recovery.

“Ensuring Indiana’s entrepreneurs and startups have access to capital, talent and resources to grow companies and create jobs is more urgent now than ever before as our state and local economies work to rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said David Becker, President and CEO of First Internet Bank and ITIA Board Chair. “Now is the time to double down on Indiana’s support for entrepreneurs, innovators, startups and small businesses as an engine to fuel our recovery, and ensure that Indiana is best positioned to welcome the tech jobs and workers of the future.”

ITIA’s policy priorities include efforts to expand access to capital for Indiana technology companies, grow the tech talent pipeline, enhance quality of life and place in Indiana, and improve diversity, inclusion and equity.

ITIA formed a new Equity Committee this year to help identify and close equity gaps impacting underrepresented populations in the tech industry and beyond.

“Absolutely critical to creating a thriving tech community are efforts to improve diversity, inclusion and equity in our state,” said Ade Olonoh, founder of Formstack and investor at Starting Line and Chair of ITIA’s new Equity Committee. “ITIA launched a new Equity Committee this year to do our part as an industry to combat inequities, and ensure Indiana’s growing tech and innovation community is vibrant, diverse and representative.”

Below are highlights from ITIA’s policy agenda:

Expand Access to Capital
Encourage robust investment in the 21st Century Research and Technology Fund, which funds critical and proven programs to support entrepreneurs and early-stage tech companies, including the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grants.
Strengthen commitment to the Venture Capital Investment tax credit program by raising the annual cap and supporting future expansions of the program to better compete with neighboring states that offer larger credits.
Invest in and accelerate deployment of the Next Level Fund, and focus on a dedicated state effort to promote, educate and facilitate the creation of new Indiana-based venture capital funds.
Grow Tech Talent Pipeline
Continued funding and resources to help Indiana schools meet the requirement to provide computer science education by 2021.
Incentivize and provide support for the creation of apprenticeships, internships and tech trade schools, and expand technology- and innovation-based Career & Technical Education (CTE) pathways.
Expand IT credentials offered through state workforce training programs including Next Level Jobs, and incentivize Indiana’s education institutions to offer IT credentialing.
Implement state- and local-based incentives for attracting individuals to move to Indiana who can work remotely, i.e. clarify that remote workers are eligible for EDGE tax credits.

Enhance Quality of Life and Place
Expand investment in the Next Level Connections Broadband Grant Program, and support the creation of state and local programs that help increase broadband adoption among consumers and businesses.
Continued support for high performing Certified Tech Parks (CTPs), and reauthorization of Indiana’s Entrepreneur and Enterprise District programs to encourage, develop and support entrepreneurship and small business development.
Identify and remove barriers to developing, testing and deploying autonomous vehicle technology.
Support efforts to make our state more friendly to clean energy technology and innovation, and oppose efforts to halt Indiana’s transition to clean and renewable energy sources.
Encourage the Indiana Destination Development Corporation to highlight companies, entrepreneurs and tech talent who have chosen Indiana as part of its efforts to rebrand and promote the State.
Improve Diversity, Inclusion and Equity
Require State-funded entities, such as the IEDC, Elevate Ventures, and Next Level Fund, that invest in Indiana businesses or venture funds receiving state dollars to record and report annually on the number of investments and the amount of money invested into women, minority and veteran owned companies.
Broaden Computer Science to be more representative of various tech disciplines to help attract girls and students of color to pursue tech credentials.
Support Governor Holcomb’s initiative to create a Public Disparity Portal to show how state programs are working and identify disparities.
Create a Statewide Public Law Enforcement Database and requirement for law enforcement agencies to collect, maintain and report data, including on egregious officer misconduct, detentions and use-of-force, as well as demographic information about arrests and detainees.

ITIA’s complete policy priorities can be found here.

Indiana Technology & Innovation Association Announces 2021-2022 Board of Directors, Expands Board by 5 Members to Reflect Growing, Diverse Statewide Membership

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 14:06:37 GMT

Indianapolis, IN – The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA), the statewide association of Indiana’s technology-driven companies and partners, announced today it has elected its 2021-2022 Board of Directors.

ITIA has expanded its Board from 15 to 20 members to reflect its growing, diverse statewide membership.

The following five individuals have been elected by the ITIA membership as new members of the Board:
Ted Baker, CEO & Executive Director, Muncie Innovation Connector
Linda Calvin, Vice President of the School of Information Technology & Workforce Alignment, Ivy Tech Community College
Mike Halbig, Founder & CEO, InGen Technologies, Inc.
Kelli N. Jones, Co-Founder of Be Nimble Foundation & Managing Partner of Sixty8 Capital powered by Allos Ventures
Randy Parmerlee, CEO & Managing Partner, Glassboard
“ITIA is excited to grow and welcome new members to its Board of Directors,” said President & CEO of First Internet Bank David Becker, who serves as Chair of the ITIA Board of Directors. “Our new Board members are incredibly accomplished tech leaders who will bring diverse perspectives to our association, and we thank them for stepping up to serve. ITIA is continuing to grow and expand its statewide presence as we work to create the best environment for Indiana’s technology companies to thrive.”

Below are the members of the 2021-2022 ITIA Board of Directors:
Ted Baker, CEO & Executive Director, Muncie Innovation Connector
David Becker, President & CEO, First Internet Bank
Linda Calvin, Vice President of the School of Information Technology & Workforce Alignment, Ivy Tech Community College
Christopher Day, CEO & Co Founder, DemandJump
Pat East, Executive Director, The Mill
Erin Eberly, Partner, Katz, Sapper & Miller
Megan Glover, CEO, 120Water
Mike Halbig, Founder & CEO, InGen Technologies, Inc.
Darye Henry, Founder, AfterSchool HQ
Kelli N. Jones, Co-Founder of Be Nimble Foundation & Managing Partner of Sixty8 Capital powered by Allos Ventures
Shelley Klingerman, Managing Entrepreneur, NEXT Studios
Mike Langellier, CEO, TechPoint
Kristin Marcuccilli, COO, STAR Financial Bank
John McDonald, Managing Entrepreneur at NEXT Studios & Founder and Chief Evangelist at ClearObject
Brent Oakley, CEO, Vibenomics
Ade Olonoh, Founder of Formstack & Venture Partner at Starting Line
Randy Parmerlee, CEO & Managing Partner, Glassboard
Bill Soards, President, AT&T Indiana
Amy Waggoner, Senior Director of State & Local Government Affairs for the Eastern U.S., Salesforce
John Wechsler, Founder and CEO of Launch Fishers & the Indiana IoT Lab

ITIA is Indiana’s premiere voice for technology in the public policy and political arenas. Membership to ITIA is open to all technology-driven companies and partners. For more information about ITIA and membership, visit www.IndianaTechnology.org.

ITIA Applauds Governor Holcomb’s Pledge to Address Racial Inequities, Urges Him to Champion Long-Term, Meaningful Reforms

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 01:12:56 GMT

Indianapolis, IN – The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) released the following statement today following Governor Eric Holcomb’s statewide address calling for greater action to address equity and inclusion.

“The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association applauds Governor Holcomb’s pledge to address racial inequities in our state and to drive systemic change across all of state government to remove barriers to access and improve outcomes for minority populations. The action steps announced today are an important start, and ITIA urges the Governor to build on this initial commitment by championing long-term, meaningful reforms.

ITIA formed an Equity Committee to identify and advocate for needed reforms, and we hope to share recommendations and opportunities to partner with the State on these efforts. ITIA stands ready to work with the Governor and the State on priority areas such as improving minority access to high-quality education and workforce training programs, identifying and addressing gaps in minority entrepreneurs’ access to resources and capital, and combatting racism that harms quality of life for the Black community in our state.”

In June, ITIA released a statement in support of the Black community and pledging to advocate for meaningful change. You can read the full statement here.

The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) is a statewide association of Indiana’s technology-driven companies and partners. ITIA is Indiana’s premier voice for technology in the public policy arena. For more information visit www.IndianaTechnology.org.

Fort Wayne Business Weekly: Technology groups call for greater equity

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 19:27:05 GMT

Indiana’s premier voice for technology-related public policy urged action to address systemic racism it said has plagued the nation for too long.

“We simply cannot have a thriving tech community in Indiana without diversity, inclusion and equality. These values are key pillars of our policy advocacy, but we know we must do more,” the Indiana Technology & Innovation Association said in a June 5 news release.

“Our Place Policy Committee will take a hard look at how we can identify and advocate for specific policy proposals for the next legislative session to improve diversity and inclusion within the tech community and beyond, and to combat systemic racism in Indiana,” it said.

“We also urge our state and local leaders to do the same, and work to enact meaningful policy reforms. We pledge to foster these conversations within our own association, listen and do our part to affect change.”

Indiana Technology & Innovation Association Supports the Black Community and Pledges to Advocate for Meaningful Change

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 16:30:28 GMT

Indianapolis, IN – The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) released the following statement today:

“The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association rises in support of the black community and urges action to address the systemic racism that’s plagued our country and its citizens for too long. We simply cannot have a thriving tech community in Indiana without diversity, inclusion and equality. These values are key pillars of our policy advocacy, but we know we must do more. Our Place Policy Committee will take a hard look at how we can identify and advocate for specific policy proposals for the next legislative session to improve diversity and inclusion within the tech community and beyond, and to combat systemic racism in Indiana. We also urge our state and local leaders to do the same, and work to enact meaningful policy reforms. We pledge to foster these conversations within our own association, listen and do our part to affect change.”

Fox 59: Local churches, entrepreneurs to donate 200,000 masks to healthcare workers, first responders

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 13:15:19 GMT

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. -- It took an extremely short amount of time for a group of 16 churches and local technology entrepreneurs to purchase 200,000 N95-type masks for around $280,000.

With such a shortage of lifesaving PPE, a local tech entrepreneur in Fishers named Michael Slate wanted to do what he could for those on the frontlines of the fight against the coronavirus.

Through a collaboration of Heartland Church, Slate's company Vendorjump, Launch Fishers and 15 other churches so far, hundreds of thousands of KN95 masks from Slate's team in Asia are on their way.

The first batch of those masks are expected to get here by the end of the week and will be given to hospitals, first responders and longterm care facilities in Indianapolis for the fight against COVID-19.

"I think that now is the greatest opportunity for us to be the 'big C' church," pastor Darryn Scheske of Heartland Church said. "We all sit in different buildings, but now we're all at home. There's a chance for us all to come together and do something compassionate."

If you, your church or your organization would like to take part in this collaborative effort, you can find more information on donations at www.covidsupport.life.

Those behind the effort said the window to place orders is narrowing as we get closer to the anticipated peak for the virus in Indiana.

"We've got to act now in order to be prepared for this," said John Wechsler, Indiana IoT founder and CEO.

Indianapolis Business Journal: Tech parks say they need more tax revenue to keep expanding

Fri, 22 Nov 2019 22:17:07 GMT

When lawmakers created a certified technology park program in 2002, they were aiming to attract technology-based startups and high-wage jobs to Indiana, while fostering innovation through partnerships among companies and researchers.

And to encourage investment at the sites—for things like infrastructure as well as shared labs and co-working spaces—the law allowed the parks to keep up to $5 million in tax revenue over their lifetimes that would have otherwise gone to state and local governments.

But as the program is maturing, 17 of the state’s 23 tech parks have either hit or about to hit that $5 million cap—and the people who run the sites say that puts all their progress at risk.

“We have to maintain our momentum,” said Ted Baker, the executive director of the Innovation Connector, a tech incubator in Ontario Place Certified Technology Park in Muncie.

That’s why the Indiana Technology & Innovation Association has put expanding revenue for tech parks on its 2020 agenda. It’s one of nine priorities the association outlined this week at a reception with tech leaders and legislators at Salesforce Tower.

“Indiana’s technology industry is experiencing tremendous growth,” said the association’s board chairman, David Becker, who is also president and CEO of First Internet Bank. “To continue this momentum, Indiana must embrace and position itself as a leader in the technology and innovation economy.”

The group developed its initiatives after months of work by committees and broke the list into three categories: capital, place and talent.

Some of the initiatives are aimed at lawmakers—like the proposal to boost the tax revenue diverted to tech parks—while others don’t need legislation, such as urging Gov. Eric Holcomb’s administration to negotiate more non-stop domestic and international flights in and out of Indiana.

The tech park proposal falls under the category of place.

That effort actually started several years ago, as the first parks started reaching the $5 million cap. The administrators of the sites proposed that lawmakers let them keep up to $500,000 in tax revenue per year—money that, again, would otherwise go to the state and local governments.

Baker said that would allow the parks to continue building and updating infrastructure as well as administer incubators and co-working spaces where many new businesses get their starts.

“The $5 million helped get the parks established,” Baker said. “The $500,000 keeps them moving into the future. It’s propelling those tech parks that are in existence.”

Ontario Place, for example, is home to more than 40 companies that employ more than 900 people, who earn an average of $68,000. Most of the companies, though, are small, Baker said, and need the services the park provides.

But tech folks have struggled to persuade lawmakers of that need.

After setting the proposal aside for two sessions, lawmakers this year agreed to give parks that have hit their caps up to $100,000 in annual tax revenue. But lawmakers also changed the calculation that determines what revenue the parks are eligible to collect, a move that significantly reduced the amount of money that could be available.

Here’s how: The 2002 law set a base year for determining the revenue available for parks—with the goal of ensuring that only the taxes generated by new investment and activity could be captured.

For example, say a community created a tech park in an area where a company or companies already existed. Whatever tax revenue was already being generated within the park’s boundaries would continue to flow to state and local government coffers. That amount became the baseline.

In the following years, the parks were allowed to collect any additional revenue over the baseline—taxes created as new companies moved into the park or existing companies expanded and hired new employees—up to the $5 million cap.

But this year, when lawmakers expanded the amount available to the tech parks by $100,000 per year, they set a new baseline. The results is that the parks can only capture the taxes paid on growth that occurs after they hit the $5 million cap.

The change allowed the state and local governments to begin collecting revenue that had been diverted for years to the tech parks.

But Baker said it’s just not enough revenue to maintain the work the parks and the incubators are doing.

So in 2020, the association will ask lawmakers to reset the baseline to the original amount—and let tech parks collect up to $500,000 annually.

“We believe that this would very beneficial to many, many communities,” Baker said.

But it may also be a tough sell in a non-budget year. Lawmakers approve the state’s two-year budget in what they call long sessions, which occur in odd-numbered years. In even-numbered years, like 2020, they meet for less time and shy away from legislation that spends money or reduces tax revenue.

That’s why most of the proposals on the tech association’s agenda for 2020 would not require new spending. The list does also include initiatives the group wants to pursue in 2021.

“We were trying to narrow in on what we can accomplish in this legislative session but still be planning ahead,” said Jennifer Hallowell, the association’s manager. “We want to build toward the budget session in 2021.”

Among the other proposals on the 2020 list:

– Require state entities that invest in Indiana business—such as Elevate Ventures, which administers grants and programs for the Indiana Economic Development Corp.—annually report the amount of money they have invested in companies owned by women, minorities and veterans.

– Add vendors of smart-technology products to the state’s list of contracted vendors to help local governments access the equipment more easily and affordably.

– Encourage the state to develop cybersecurity guidelines and best practices to serve as a resource for local governments and help them access vetted cybersecurity products and providers.

– Expand and update the state’s Next Level Jobs program—which provides training assistance for in-demand jobs—to include more technology occupations and certifications.

– Allow companies that receive skills and training grants from the IEDC to use a portion of the money to pay relocation expenses for highly talented workers.

Inside Indiana Business: Technology Association Releases Policy Agenda

Wed, 20 Nov 2019 22:16:13 GMT

INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association has released its 2020 Policy Agenda. The organization’s priorities include investing in more non-stop domestic and international flights to help connect Indiana businesses with industry leaders, recruiting and retaining talent, and supporting a statewide cybersecurity initiative.

The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association is a statewide association of Indiana’s technology-driven companies and partners. The ITIA includes more than 120 technology companies throughout Indiana.

“Indiana’s technology industry is experiencing tremendous growth. To continue this momentum, Indiana must embrace and position itself as a leader in the technology and innovation economy,” said David Becker, President and Chief Executive Officer of First Internet Bank, and Board Chair of the Indiana Technology & Innovation Association. “Our technology leaders have spent several months working on a tech policy agenda to expand access to venture capital, train and attract skilled talent, and make Indiana an attractive and supportive place to live and work in tech. We look forward to partnering with Indiana’s policy makers to advance this agenda and help Indiana’s technology industry and our state succeed.”

The ITIA’s 2020 Policy Agenda can be found below:

CAPITAL

Innovation Research and Technology Transfer Grants: ITIA supports expanded efforts to promote the state’s 50% match of the federal Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grants, to provide support for entrepreneurs to help them navigate the application process, and to assist SBIR/STTR grant recipients with raising additional funding and commercializing their technology.
Investment Reporting: ITIA recommends that state entities that invest in Indiana businesses, such as Elevate Ventures and the 21 Fund, record and report annually on the number of investments and the amount of money invested into women, minority, and veteran-owned companies to encourage a focus on diversity.

PLACE

Nonstop Flights: ITIA supports continued investment in adding more non-stop domestic and international flights to help connect Indiana businesses with major industry hubs.
Certified Tech Parks: ITIA supports the expansion of high performing Certified Tech Parks (CTPs) by increasing the maximum allowable CTP capture per year from $100,000 to $500,000 and removing the automatic reset of the CTP base year once the initial $5 million cap is reached.
Smart Cities: ITIA supports a dedicated effort by the state to add smart technology products and providers to the state’s list of Quantity Purchase Agreements to help local governments access and implement these technologies to more effectively and efficiently deliver city services.
Data Privacy: ITIA supports the adoption of federal data privacy legislation to protect consumer data, rather than a patchwork of state-by-state regulations in order to provide certainty and consistency to both consumers and businesses.
Cybersecurity: ITIA encourages the state to facilitate the development of cybersecurity guidelines and best practices as a resource for local governments and help them access vetted cybersecurity products and providers.

TALENT

Next Level Jobs: ITIA supports efforts to update and expand the Next Level Jobs program to ensure that the definition of in-demand jobs and trainings that are eligible for grant funding includes the technology jobs of tomorrow and to increase the number of IT training providers of high demand credentials (i.e. Comp TIA A+, Security+ and Network+) available to applicants.
Talent Recruitment: ITIA urges the state to incorporate talent recruitment as a core tenet of economic development similar to how traditional strategies have focused on company relocation, and implement targeted and data-driven approaches to attract tech workers to relocate to Indiana.
Relocation Costs: ITIA supports updating existing tools and incentives, like the IEDC’s Skills Enhancement Fund which provides assistance for employee training, to include employee relocation costs to assist in bringing high-value talent to Indiana, in particular for smaller employers.

Indiana Technology & Innovation Association Announces 2020 Policy Agenda with Focus on Capital, Place and Talent

Hallowell Consulting, LLC — Wed, 20 Nov 2019 14:58:42 GMT

Indianapolis, IN – The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association announced its 2020 Policy Agenda today during a reception with tech leaders and legislators at Salesforce Tower, hosted in partnership with TechPoint.

The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA), which launched on Organization Day last year, is a statewide association of Indiana’s technology-driven companies and partners. ITIA represents more than 120 technology companies and partners across the state, and Indiana’s fastest growing industry.

Technology job postings in Indiana increased by 85% over the last year, with more than 184,000 new tech jobs added to our economy (CompTIA Cyberstates 2019). Indiana tech employment is projected to grow nearly 7.6% between 2018 and 2026; more than Illinois (5.1%), Michigan (5.6%) and Ohio (4.6%) (CompTIA Cyberstates 2019).

ITIA’s policy priorities address three core pillars critical to advancing Indiana’s technology industry – Capital, Place and Talent.

“Indiana’s technology industry is experiencing tremendous growth. To continue this momentum, Indiana must embrace and position itself as a leader in the technology and innovation economy,” said David Becker, President and CEO of First Internet Bank, and Board Chair of the Indiana Technology & Innovation Association. “Our technology leaders have spent several months working on a tech policy agenda to expand access to venture capital, train and attract skilled talent, and make Indiana an attractive and supportive place to live and work in tech. We look forward to partnering with Indiana’s policy makers to advance this agenda and help Indiana’s technology industry and our state succeed.”

ITIA’s 2020 Policy Agenda includes the following priorities:

CAPITAL

Innovation Research and Technology Transfer Grants: ITIA supports expanded efforts to promote the state’s 50% match of the federal Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grants, to provide support for entrepreneurs to help them navigate the application process, and to assist SBIR/STTR grant recipients with raising additional funding and commercializing their technology.
Investment Reporting: ITIA recommends that state entities that invest in Indiana businesses, such as Elevate Ventures and the 21 Fund, record and report annually on the number of investments and the amount of money invested into women, minority, and veteran-owned companies to encourage a focus on diversity.

PLACE

Nonstop Flights: ITIA supports continued investment in adding more non-stop domestic and international flights to help connect Indiana businesses with major industry hubs.
Certified Tech Parks: ITIA supports the expansion of high performing Certified Tech Parks (CTPs) by increasing the maximum allowable CTP capture per year from $100,000 to $500,000 and removing the automatic reset of the CTP base year once the initial $5 million cap is reached.
Smart Cities: ITIA supports a dedicated effort by the state to add smart technology products and providers to the state’s list of Quantity Purchase Agreements to help local governments access and implement these technologies to more effectively and efficiently deliver city services.
Data Privacy: ITIA supports the adoption of federal data privacy legislation to protect consumer data, rather than a patchwork of state-by-state regulations in order to provide certainty and consistency to both consumers and businesses.
Cybersecurity: ITIA encourages the state to facilitate the development of cybersecurity guidelines and best practices as a resource for local governments and help them access vetted cybersecurity products and providers.

TALENT

Next Level Jobs: ITIA supports efforts to update and expand the Next Level Jobs program to ensure that the definition of in-demand jobs and trainings that are eligible for grant funding includes the technology jobs of tomorrow and to increase the number of IT training providers of high demand credentials (i.e. Comp TIA A+, Security+ and Network+) available to applicants.
Talent Recruitment: ITIA urges the state to incorporate talent recruitment as a core tenet of economic development similar to how traditional strategies have focused on company relocation, and implement targeted and data-driven approaches to attract tech workers to relocate to Indiana.
Relocation Costs: ITIA supports updating existing tools and incentives, like the IEDC’s Skills Enhancement Fund which provides assistance for employee training, to include employee relocation costs to assist in bringing high-value talent to Indiana, in particular for smaller employers.

To download ITIA’s full Policy Agenda which contains 2020 Agenda items and Looking Forward policy priorities, click here.

The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) is a statewide association of Indiana’s technology-driven companies and partners. Our member companies put technology at the heart of what they do. ITIA is Indiana’s premier voice for technology in the public policy arena. For more information visit www.IndianaTechnology.org.

Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly: ITIA calls for regional involvement

Hallowell Consulting, LLC — Wed, 14 Aug 2019 21:28:41 GMT

Indiana Technology & Innovation Association officials visited Fort Wayne late last month for an Aptera-hosted event explaining the organization’s mission and how the region’s tech community can help shape public policy.

Hundreds of industries have organizations at the Statehouse representing their interests, but until ITIA was formed in Indianapolis last year, the technology industry did not have one, Jennifer Hallowell, ITIA manager, said during the visit.

Techpoint works on the development of Indiana’s tech ecosystem, helping it build community and attract talent and resources, but it doesn’t get into government advocacy and lobbying. Instead, it supports ITIA efforts along those lines, she said. Mike Langellier, Techpoint’s president and CEO, serves on ITIA’s board.

To maximize ITIA’s impact, “it’s really important to have voices from all over the state of Indiana — not just central Indiana — advising, guiding, shepherding, changing, fixing, educating our legislators on what we need in all parts of our state,” said John McDonald, Clear Object CEO and ITIA board member.

“The people who make those policies, the state legislators, need to hear from them about what’s important to them. And, if they’re not there, their voices have not been heard,” he said.

The regional tech community’s involvement with ITIA also is important as a means of keeping up with new resources and opportunities that become available through the organization’s advocacy for the technology industry, McDonald said.

Discussion at the event included a review of programs “that are available through the state to assist technology companies and unfortunately, very few people that were here tonight knew about them, let alone knew that they were for them,” he said shortly after the event.

A 2019 legislative recap the organization presented boasted ITIA helped secure $3 million per year in state funding for the Next Level Computer Science Program, which will make sure every school in Indiana is offering computer science education by 2021.

It also helped restore $30 million per year in state funding for the 21st Century Research and Technology Fund, which supports tech-related entrepreneurship and research as well as academic technology transfer.

“There were a couple of different times during the legislative session that some of those funding mechanisms were challenged. So, when the Senate version of the budget came out, there were cuts in computer science education for schools and cuts in the 21 Fund,” Hallowell said.

“Our members mobilized and worked to get the funding levels restored to what they originally were,” she said.

ITIA also advocated successfully for legislation that made venture capital investment tax credits transferable to third parties, which was designed to help Indiana attract more out-of-state venture capital investment.

Other legislation and initiatives receiving ITIA support included those providing tax incentives for data centers, Gov. Eric Holcomb’s $100 million rural broadband initiative and a bias crimes law allowing judges to increase criminal penalties for hate crimes.

ITIA also supported the governor’s initiative to double funding for Next Level Employer Training Grants and Workforce Ready Grants designed to upskill Indiana workers in high-wage, high-demand fields.

https://www.fwbusiness.com/fwbusiness/article_7d7240f8-a386-5529-b6cf-0acbeeaa1804.html

Fort Wayne Journal Gazette: 'Call-out' meeting set to influence tech talk at Statehouse

Hallowell Consulting, LLC — Mon, 29 Jul 2019 21:30:30 GMT

Fort Wayne technology leaders and entrepreneurs will gather at a downtown business Tuesday evening for a “call-out” meeting that could influence policy talk among Indiana lawmakers.

The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) will meet from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Aptera, 113 W. Berry St., according to a Monday media advisory.

The association officially launched in November 2018, representing an industry it says is Indiana’s fastest-growing sector. The association has recruited about 115 technology company members across the state.

“Leaders involved in the Fort Wayne technology scene will meet to discuss ways they can get involved and shape Indiana’s tech policy at the Statehouse,” the advisory said.

The association’s policy priorities include better preparing the workforce for technology jobs, increasing access to venture capital and attracting tech talent to Indiana.

http://www.journalgazette.net/article/20190729/WEB/190729877

Indianapolis Business Journal: Tax credit change poised to boost supply of venture capital from out of state

Hallowell Consulting, LLC — Wed, 12 Jun 2019 18:52:10 GMT

Indiana startups might soon have an easier time attracting out-of-state investments thanks to a change lawmakers made this year to an instrumental tax incentive program.

The state has offered the venture capital investment tax credit since late 2003 as a way to make investing in startups a little less risky, but it really only benefited Indiana residents because it applied to an individual’s state tax liability. That meant investors who didn’t pay Indiana taxes were left out.

Senate Bill 563, authored by Republican Sen. Travis Holdman and signed by Gov. Eric Holcomb, changed that. Starting in 2020, investors will be allowed to transfer the tax credit, which means out-of-state investors can essentially sell the credit to someone in state who can take advantage of it.

Leaders in the tech community say that is a big win for their industry, because it will help motivate out-of-state individuals—who regularly ask about the tax credit—to invest in Indiana startups.

“It’s certainly not the only driver when making the decision about whether to invest in a company,” said entrepreneur Mike Simmons, who is now executive chairman and president of Sharpen Technologies. “But it certainly makes it a much easier decision.”

The change could also have a ripple effect for regular in-state investors. If startups’ pool of potential investors grows, local investors might hear fewer pitches.

“There are 15-20 people that probably get hit on pretty regularly for investment,” Simmons said. “The more we can broaden that out, it’s definitely better for the community.”

The VCI tax credit program allows someone who invests in an early-stage Indiana company to claim a tax credit worth 20% of the investment. The credit is capped at $1 million.

An individual who invests $500,000 in an eligible startup, for example, can receive a $100,000 cut in the income taxes he or she owes the state.

Eligible startups have to register with the Indiana Economic Development Corp. and set a venture capital fundraising goal. Investors then can receive the 20% credit until the company hits that goal, which is capped at $5 million.

In the program’s first 15 years, 778 startups have been certified to use it, but only 39 have reached the $5 million cap.

In 2018, more than 100 companies used the VCI tax credit program, and investors committed nearly $60 million to qualified startups.

Scott McCorkle, who used the credit as part of his strategy to attract investors to his software-as-a-service firm MetaCX Inc., said the program definitely helps.

“It makes for more aggressive investments, so a higher level of funding,” McCorkle said.

Investors have five years from making the financial commitment to claim the tax credit.

The IEDC is limited to awarding $12.5 million in tax credits every year—but the total credits have never reached the cap.

From 2014-2018, the approved credits totaled upward of $10 million, nearing the cap. Before that, totals were $6 million to $8.5 million annually.

“Only in the last few years has that [cap] become a concern,” IEDC President Elaine Bedel said.

Mike Langellier, president and CEO of TechPoint, said the credit has been “a really important instrument in the startup finance ecosystem” because it can be difficult to convince investors to take a risk on an idea or new company.

The companies involved in the program are typically in their first round of funding, and investments could take a long time to materialize. The credit essentially makes the investment 20% less of a risk.

“What’s so great about it is, it provides virtually an immediate return on investment,” Simmons said.

It’s not clear how much money Indiana startups have missed out on because the tax credit wasn’t transferable, but tech leaders say they know dollars have gone elsewhere.

“It’s real. I absolutely see it,” Langellier said. Investors “have tons of options to prospectively invest in. A big part of that decision is the risk/reward trade-off.”

Simmons said allowing the credit to be transferable will “definitely broaden the investor base.”

Now, Hoosier startups might have an easier time targeting wealthy individuals in bigger markets like Chicago, Louisville, Seattle, San Francisco and Boston, for example.

Some states, like Kentucky, already allow the VCI tax credit to be transferred to another individual. But the move by lawmakers this year does give Indiana a leg up over Illinois, Michigan and Ohio, where the credit is not transferable.

“It just gives us a bigger platform to tell the story of all the great things that are happening in the state of Indiana startup scene,” said Scott Dorsey, tech entrepreneur and investor who helped found venture studio High Alpha.

The IEDC is still working out the details of just how the transfers—or most likely sales—of tax credits will work. The state will not be involved in determining how much an in-state investor will pay to buy a tax credit from an out-of-state investor, but the parties will have to notify the IEDC.

Bedel said the price might depend on whether the buyer could immediately claim the tax credit or would be saving it for a year in which he or she has a high enough tax burden to apply it.

“I see it as a real win-win for the state of Indiana,” Bedel said. “We’re just bringing more money in to help start these small businesses in Indiana.”

Langellier said he thinks there is a large pool of potential investors among out-of-state alumni of Indiana’s colleges and universities since they already have a connection to the state.

John Hanak, managing director of Purdue Ventures, said its donor network is predominantly alumni, so the impact from the change could be huge.

“There’s definitely been a market need for this to happen,” Hanak said. “It’s just another in a number of growing factors for investors to look at Indiana.”

Langellier also said the tool could convince startups to locate in Indiana, because access to capital is typically a top consideration for entrepreneurs.

But the measure’s significance, he added, will depend on key details like how easy the process is to use the credit and how well the startup community markets it.

“We shouldn’t see it as a ‘build it and they will come’ kind of strategy,” Langellier said. “It’s not going to happen to be successful on its own.”

One unchanged aspect of the program is the cap on how much the IEDC can award each year. That will stay at $12.5 million, but tech community leaders are likely to push the state to increase it if the credits start reaching that level.

Bedel said hitting the maximum would be a good thing.

“That would mean we have more money coming in from outside the state,” she said.•

Indianapolis Business Journal: State bets tax breaks will lead to influx of data centers

Hallowell Consulting, LLC — Wed, 12 Jun 2019 18:49:32 GMT

To hear state officials, site-selection experts and local tech execs tell it, a new tax break has made Indiana an instant player in the national data-center scene.

State lawmakers last month passed a much-ballyhooed law that exempts sales taxes on equipment, infrastructure and electricity costs for sizable data centers constructed in Indiana.

Those tax breaks could amount to $1.75 million to $10.5 million in savings for each Indiana-domiciled data center that qualifies. While a portion of the incentives—namely the forgiveness of sales taxes on electricity—would come over a number of years, facility operators would see much of their savings at the front end of a project.

Some of the law’s provisions take effect July 1, though others are retroactive to Jan. 1.

“Indiana was not in the game before this legislation,” said Larry Gigerich, executive managing director at Ginovus, a locally based site-selection firm that works with clients across the United States and Canada. “It is now.”

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, Indiana joins at least 25 states with similar incentives for data centers, which house computer systems, servers and digital storage.

Indiana is “not playing catch-up anymore,” said Tom Dakich, a local attorney and partner in a massive data center project under construction in Hammond. “In no way is Indiana less than a top-five site in the country for data centers after the passage of this legislation.”

Indiana is already attractive—tech experts and officials for the Indiana Economic Development Corp. say—due to its proximity to underserved areas of Chicago and Louisville as well as a pent-up demand to have the facilities in central Indiana. In addition, the state is known to have relatively low electricity and water rates, key needs in running a large power-intensive data center.

The tax-incentive bill garnered wide bipartisan support, clearing the House 95-1 and the Senate 46-0. Gov. Eric Holcomb, fast becoming a darling among local tech companies, eagerly supported the bill and signed it into law.

“Data centers can be billion-dollar projects that greatly enhance the economies of the cities and states they locate in through the creation of jobs and strong investments in the community,” said Rep. Ed Soliday, R-Valparaiso, who authored the bill. “In order to encourage development of this caliber in Indiana, we have to make ourselves competitive and give these companies a reason to choose us over another state.”

But the impact of the bill is somewhat unclear—partly because the future need for goliath data centers is uncertain, tech experts told IBJ, and partly because the state’s prize will be difficult to quantify since data center operations, and locations, in many instances are cloaked in mystery.

There’s good reason for some secrecy, according to data center operators. Most centers contain data and servers that are vital to the operations of transportation, finance, health care and other crucial sectors. Some data centers contain large caches of classified digital information.

“Many data centers are thought to be significant targets for terrorists,” one local data center operator told IBJ. “Crippling the country’s data centers could be catastrophic.”

In the chase

So counting the data centers in Indiana is a tall task. Most familiar with the local industry say the state has a handful, although none are the size of those run and occupied by giants such as Google, Amazon, Microsoft and Facebook, which sometimes occupy more than 500,000 square feet and cost $500 million to $1 billion.

Locally based Lifeline Data Centers runs two local data centers, including an 80,000-square-foot center at the former Eastgate Mall. A number of smaller centers are near Lucas Oil Stadium; and Hammond, Fort Wayne and South Bend each have one.

“Our data center inventory is not very robust right now,” said Dakich, whose company, Digital Crossroads of America, plans to open a 100,000-square-foot data center by Nov. 1. “I would not be surprised if we didn’t quadruple our present capacity within five years.”

It’s been just a few weeks since lawmakers approved the data center tax breaks, yet already the Indiana Economic Development Corp. has had multiple “official and unofficial inquires,” said David Roberts, IEDC’s chief innovation officer.

“I would be surprised if we don’t see at least one $500 million-plus project within the first year,” he said.

The lack of tax incentives until now has put Indiana behind in the chase for data centers, especially the much-coveted mega centers being built in strategic locations across the country—including in some neighboring states.

Iowa and Ohio have become leaders in luring data centers. Both already offer sizable tax breaks and have low electricity costs. Iowa, Des Moines in particular, has become a data center powerhouse, with most or all of the nation’s largest tech companies building operations there over the last decade.

Other data center hot spots are in parts of Idaho, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, Texas and Washington state. Data center operators are keen on regions not prone to natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes and blizzards. That, Gigerich said, knocks out many locations on the East and West coasts.

A look inside

So what exactly is a data center and what is pushing the growth?

In some respects, data centers are nothing more than massive warehouses full of digital storage with precise environmental controls—state-of-the-art heating and air conditioning systems are essential—and a high level of security. Many are gated, some are bomb-proof, and all are guarded 24/7.

“Data centers are weird animals,” said Alex Carroll, co-founder of Lifeline Data Centers. “On one hand, it’s a real complex world. On the other hand, it’s just about keeping the electricity on and the computers up and running.”

Dakich said once his Hammond project is completed, he and his partners will rarely set foot inside the facility, explaining that operations are best left to companies that rent space in the facilities and technical experts.

Data centers are generally filled with rows and rows of servers and other computer hardware that enables internet connectivity, streaming and other functions of cloud computing.

Carroll explained his data center infrastructure in plumbing parlance.

“If you think of the interconnectivity that connects all computers to the internet and the cloud, you could think of the pipes in residences or even many businesses as being a few inches” in diameter, he said. “You can drive a truck through the pipes of a commercial data center like ours.”

At its two central Indiana data centers, Carroll’s company has 20 generators, about 100 HVAC blowers and 15 uninterrupted power-supply devices.

“If you’re not already in the data center business, you’re probably not going to get into the data center business,” Carroll said. “It is extremely capital-intensive to launch a data center.”

The growth in data centers over the last five to 10 years has been pushed by the explosion of ever-more-advanced mobile data devices, increased demand for cloud computing, and the swift growth of the internet of things—which is essentially devices connected to the internet, anything from household appliances and lawn mowers to HVAC systems and traffic lights.

Data centers vary widely with respect to occupancy. Many boast multiple occupancy, like the ones run by Dakich and Carroll, in which several companies share the space. Dakich hopes to have seven or so occupants at his Hammond center, maybe a few more when it expands to its full size of 400,000 square feet.

Lifeline Data Centers at Eastgate has about 150 occupants, Carroll said.

... Read more

Inside Indiana Business: Group to Bring Tech Voice to Statehouse

Hallowell Consulting, LLC — Thu, 09 May 2019 18:54:06 GMT

INDIANAPOLIS - Some of the biggest names and businesses in Indiana's tech sector are coming together to launch an organization to advocate for the industry with state leaders. The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association says it will push for policies to ensure the state has a strong infrastructure for tech companies to start, enough capital for them to grow and enough talent for them to sustain and scale.

http://www.insideindianabusiness.com/Clip/14693797/group-to-bring-tech-voice-to-statehouse#.W_iwZAbrT6E.twitter

Indiana Public Media: Tech Leaders: Lack Of Hate Crimes Law 'Black Eye' For Indiana

Hallowell Consulting, LLC — Wed, 06 Mar 2019 19:43:29 GMT

Indiana tech industry leaders say the lack of a comprehensive hate crimes law is a barrier to attracting talent.

Those leaders say they’re ready to engage with lawmakers to advance the issue.

Many in the business community want a hate crimes bill with a list of victim characteristics. And they were upset when Senate Republicans eliminated that list earlier this session. Clear Software CEO Jon Gilman says if House lawmakers don’t add it back in, they’ll give Indiana a “black eye.”

“Just simply reaffirms the reputation of Indiana as being socially regressive and essentially not inclusive,” Gilman says.

ClearObject CEO John McDonald is on the board of the Indiana Technology and Innovation Association. He says he wants tech companies to dispel the myth that Hoosiers don’t care about the hate crimes debate.

“Get engaged with their local legislators and help them understand the importance of this issue, not on a sort of a wide scale but specifically, in that district, to those companies,” McDonald says.

House GOP leaders are not supportive of a hate crimes law with a list of victim characteristics, though Gov. Eric Holcomb has advocated for one.

https://indianapublicmedia.org/news/tech-leaders-lack-of-hate-crimes-law-black-eye-for-indiana.php

Fox 59: CEOs of Indiana tech companies call for specific bias crimes law

Hallowell Consulting, LLC — Wed, 06 Mar 2019 19:39:54 GMT

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind - Several CEOs from Indiana technology companies are calling for Indiana lawmakers to pass a hate crimes bill that specifically lists protected groups, comparing the discussion to the Religious Freedom Restoration Act controversy of 2015.

Members of the Indiana Technology & Innovation Association held a Wednesday news conference in the Statehouse atrium and argued that Indiana’s lack of a hate crime law is hurting their efforts to recruit talent from out of state.

“Technology is Indiana’s fastest growing sector, but we are in a death match for talent with other places and other states,” said John McDonald, CEO of Fishers-based ClearObject. “There are not enough skilled workers to fill the jobs that we’re creating every day. And so we can’t afford to have anything be a barrier to that talent and recruitment.”

“Passing a watered down unenforceable bias crimes law just simply reaffirms the reputation of Indiana as being socially regressive and essentially not inclusive,” said John Gilman, CEO of Zionsville-based Clear Software. “It really makes it difficult to run a technology company when we have this reputation because talent is our number one need.”

Last month, the Indiana Senate passed a biased crimes bill that allows a judge to consider bias as an aggravating factor when sentencing a person convicted of a crime. The bill did not include a list of specific characteristics such as race, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity. Critics called the removal of the specific list a watering down of the legislation. Senate Bill 12 was passed to the House and assigned to the committee on Courts and Criminal Code.

Members of the coalition said passing a bias crimes bill without the specific list would do nothing to improve Indiana’s reputation on social issues.

“I’m worried that if we don’t do this, we will have another RFRA on our hands,” said Anderson Schoenrock, CEO of Indianapolis-based Memory Ventures. “But this time it could be worse because it will be a second black eye on the state.”

Schoenrock said when he moved his business from California to Indiana, his company’s COO refused to make the move because of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act debate.

Avon Republican Representative Greg Steuerwald, who authored the House version of the bias crimes bill and signed on as co-sponsor for SB 12, says the comparison to the 2015 debate is off base.

“No, that’s not a fair comparison at all,” Steuerwald said. “What we’re trying to deal with here is making sure that every form of hate is covered, and that’s exactly what we intend to do.”

Steuerwald says the language in his bill, House Bill 1093, allows a judge to consider all types of hate without excluding any particular groups. The bill states a judge can consider bias as an aggravating circumstance if a person commits a crime “because of the individual's or the group's real or perceived characteristic, trait, belief, practice, association, or other attribute the court chooses to consider.”

“Worked very hard to make sure no form of hate is excluded,” Steuerwald said. “The judge is empowered to consider every form of bias under House Bill 1093.”

The comments come as Governor Eric Holcomb is traveling Europe in an effort to bring new business back to Indiana. Last week, the Governor said the Senate version of the bill would not be enough to get Indiana off the list of five states that do not have their own bias crimes law. The Governor said he wants lawmakers to pass a bill that includes specific list of specific groups. He suggested using language taken from federal hate crimes law and inserting it into Indiana law.

“And I say that coming from A, it’s the right thing to do,” Holcomb said February 27. “And B, it does, in terms of our business community, matter.”

Members of the ITIA say they appreciate Holcomb’s efforts, but they don’t believe the federal language would be sufficient because it does not include age discrimination.

Steuerwald said he couldn’t predict whether Representatives in the House will eventually insert a specific list.

“There’s pretty strong opposition to it at this point,” Steuerwald said. “I don’t know where we’re going to end up, but I do believe that the common goal for everybody is that there’s no form of hate excluded.”

https://fox59.com/2019/03/06/ceos-of-indiana-tech-companies-call-for-specific-bias-crimes-law/

Indiana Technology & Innovation Association Urges Legislature to Pass Comprehensive, Inclusive Bias Crimes Law

Hallowell Consulting, LLC — Wed, 06 Mar 2019 16:24:51 GMT

INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Members of the Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) gathered at the Statehouse today to urge the Legislature to pass a clear, comprehensive and inclusive bias crimes law.

ITIA, which launched in November, represents more than 100 technology companies across the state and Indiana’s fastest growing sector.

The Indiana General Assembly is considering bias crimes legislation this year, but the Indiana Senate recently stripped the bill of its enumerated list of characteristics, including race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, disability, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, and age.

ITIA today urged the House of Representatives to add the list back in and pass a true, enforceable bias crimes law this year. Governor Eric Holcomb has also advocated for this change.

“Passing a fully inclusive bias crimes statute demonstrates to our employees, our prospective employees and our community that Indiana is a safe and welcoming place for them to live and work,” said CEO of Salesforce Marketing Cloud and Chief Analytics Officer Bob Stutz who was represented today by ITIA Board Member and Salesforce Director of Midwest State and Local Government Affairs Amy Waggoner.

Indiana is one of only 5 states without a bias crimes law, and 44 of the 45 states with a bias crimes law include a list of enumerated characteristics to ensure the law is enforceable.

“Technology is Indiana’s fastest growing sector, but we’re in a death match for talent. There aren’t enough skilled workers to fill the jobs we’re creating,” said John McDonald, CEO and Co-Founder of ClearObject and ITIA Board Member. “Having Indiana on the list of 5 states without a bias crimes law is a barrier to attracting skilled talent to our state. We can’t get off this unflattering ‘list of 5,’ without a list.”

“If we’re going to continue to operate in the Hoosier state and stay competitive, we have to be able to recruit and retain talent,” said Jon Gilman, CEO of Clear Software. “Let’s take unnecessary recruitment barriers off the table and pass a comprehensive, inclusive bias crimes law this year.”

Several ITIA members who were negatively impacted by the 2015 passage of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) fear similar fallout if a comprehensive bias crimes law fails to pass this year.

“Our company was preparing to relocate to Fishers, Indiana from Southern California, just as RFRA gained national attention. Unfortunately, it cost us our Chief Operations Officer and my right-hand man who decided not to relocate here because of concerns about Indiana’s inclusiveness and diversity,” said Anderson Schoenrock, CEO of Memory Ventures. “My fear now – is that if legislators pass a bias crimes law without a list or, once again, fail to pass one – we will face a backlash similar to what occurred after RFRA and threaten our industry’s growth.”

Joshua Driver, a member of the LGBT community and CEO of Selfless.ly, founded Open For Service after RFRA to combat the negative reputation harming the tech industry.

“Passing a bias crimes law without a list will counteract all of the work we’ve done in recent years to rebuild our state’s reputation, share Indiana’s story and grow our industry,” Driver said. “We urge our representatives to pass a bias crimes law with enumerated characteristics that include sexual orientation and gender identity.”

He also noted the lingering effects of RFRA that will likely worsen without passage of a true bias crimes law.

“These policies can lead to employee losses as well as investment losses. An investment group my company hoped to pitch wouldn’t even consider us because they had made the decision not to invest in Indiana companies after RFRA,” Driver said.

ITIA members will be sending a letter to members of the Indiana House of Representatives today asking them to stand with Governor Eric Holcomb and add the list of enumerated characters back into the bias crimes legislation before passage.

“We need to send a strong message that Indiana is a welcoming, diverse state,” McDonald said.

A PHOTO from today’s press conference is available here. PICTURED LEFT RIGHT: (Ray Ontko with Doxpop, Jon Gilman with Clear Software, Joshua Driver with Selfless.ly and Open For Service, Anderson Schoenrock with Memory Ventures, John McDonald with ClearObject, Amy Waggoner with Salesforce, John Wechsler with Launch Fishers and Indiana IoT Lab, Ade Olonoh an angel investor)

About ITIA
The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) is a statewide association of Indiana’s technology driven companies and partners. ITIA represents more than 100 technology companies across the state and Indiana’s fastest growing sector. More information at indianatechnology.org.

About ClearObject
Based in Fishers, ClearObject is an Internet of Things (IoT) systems integrator that designs, develops, deploys, and manages innovative connected solutions and digital data products. More information at www.clearobject.com.

About Memory Ventures
Based in Fishers, Memory Ventures encompasses 8 direct to consumer brands all of which help consumers preserve, share and enjoy their favorite life moments. More information at www.memoryventures.com.

About Clear Software
Based in Zionsville, Clear Software is a process automation platform that helps large organizations dramatically improve their operational efficiency. More information at clearsoftware.com.

About Selfless.ly
Based in Indianapolis, Selfless.ly logs, tracks, and maintains all charitable involvement in one place. It is then tracked in a system and provides important metrics for marketing, recruitment, and retention initiatives. More information at www.selflessly.io.

IBJ: Small businesses still feeling federal shutdown hangover

Hallowell Consulting, LLC — Fri, 01 Feb 2019 19:48:20 GMT

Although the federal government shutdown is over for now, some small-business owners in central Indiana are still reeling from the impact and worry they could be in the same situation again soon.

President Donald Trump and congressional leaders reached a deal Jan. 25 to end the shutdown, which started Dec. 22. But the government could close again if a long-term compromise over whether to pay for a security wall along the Mexican border isn’t settled by Feb. 15.

According to the Congressional Budget Office, the five-week closure cost the economy $11 billion, and $18 billion in federal spending was delayed.

Some small-business owners—who often rely on government assistance through Small Business Innovation Research grants, Small Business Technology Transfer grants and loans through the Small Business Administration—are still regrouping after not being able to access money they were counting on because the federal government was closed.

The practical implications in central Indiana varied:

◗ Everett Berry, CEO of Fishers-based tech startup Perceive Inc., stopped taking a paycheck so he could pay his four employees.

◗ Boss Battle Games delayed the opening of its Castleton Square Mall location after an SBA-backed loan was put on hold.

◗ Ellie Symes, CEO of Bloomington-based The Bee Corp., rushed to submit paperwork for the firm’s next round of grant funding immediately after the government reopened in fear that the SBIR grants could be cut off again.

The company leaders agreed another shutdown would worsen their situations.

To help encourage compromise in Washington, D.C., the Indiana Technology and Innovation Association—the newly formed advocacy and education association for tech companies—sent a letter to Indiana’s entire congressional delegation on Jan. 29.

“The chaos and uncertainty caused by these shutdown negotiations is likely to threaten the survival of these startups, hamper major innovations and lead to Hoosier job losses,” the letter read. “It will also send a chilling effect through the startup community.”

The SBA is rapidly trying to catch up on paperwork, said Laura Schafsnitz, a spokeswoman for Indiana’s SBA office. Within 48 hours of reopening, the SBA processed 1,100 loan applications, totaling hundreds of millions of dollars nationwide. Indiana figures were not available.

“We’re absolutely overjoyed to be back to work,” Schafsnitz said. “We’re back in business and trying to make sure we have everything in line.”

Bad timing

Dustin and Phylicia Burd, owners of Boss Battle Games, were among business owners stuck in limbo for weeks. Just before the government closed, they were ready to sign a $30,000 SBA-guaranteed loan.

The funding delay came at a bad time—they were scheduled to take possession Jan. 1 of space at Castleton Square Mall for their retro arcade and gaming center, and their existing lease at Washington Square Mall was set to expire Jan. 31.

“We were scrambling to figure out where we were going to get any funding,” Phylicia Burd said.

A good friend loaned the company money, she said, and the couple crowd-funded to get by.

“We stretched ourselves so thin in a panic,” Burd said.

Barbara Underwood, Indiana director for the National Federation of Independent Businesses, said she hadn’t heard many complaints from the group’s 12,000 members. But she said SBA funding can be important when businesses are expanding.

“If you’re getting ready to close [on a loan, a shutdown] can be infuriating,” Underwood said.

The Burds have now received their loan, but the situation delayed the new location’s opening by slightly more than a week and hampered their ability to hire contractors to help with the move.

“We didn’t feel confident in throwing money around,” Burd said. “We were just scared to.”

Schafsnitz said that, regardless of whether the government is operating, the SBA encourages businesses to work with their lenders to obtain better terms and rates and use the various resources available on the SBA’s website.

“We’re always concerned [about] any sort of negative impact that might come out of any sort of delay,” she said. “That’s why we try to provide that positive opportunity.”

Burd said she is grateful for the loan but will be more cautious about obtaining SBA loans in the future because it’s so hard to predict what the government will do.

“I would make sure to give myself a lot more time,” she said.

Startup struggles

Two of the biggest sources of funding for tech startups, aside from venture capital, are Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer grants.

when the federal government shut down, so did the website companies use to draw down the grant money.

The grants range from $150,000 to $1 million and are paid out in phases. Over the past two years, 54 Indiana companies received $23.2 million in SBIR grants and eight companies received $3.1 million in STTR grants.

Symes, from The Bee Corp., which helps beekeepers use technology to improve hive management and reduce colony losses, said her firm had already been approved for a $250,000 grant and had received some of the money, but was scheduled to receive the rest during what became the shutdown. She hadn’t even considered how the shutdown would affect her business until someone from another startup warned her SBIR funding was cut off.

The application for the next funding phase isn’t due until the end of February, Symes said. But she was so worried about another possible closure that she has already submitted her application.

“It’s definitely stressful,” Symes said. “It just shows this stuff infiltrates every aspect of our economy in different ways.”

An interruption in the grant process could delay The Bee Corp.’s growth, she said, and require the firm to change its funding strategy.

“We’d have to do more private capital and do that sooner,” Symes said. But she acknowledged that her company is lucky in that it can shift money around to cover expenses until the grant money comes through.

“We watch our cash flow,” said Symes, who has four employees. “We were able to solve problems with other sources of funding.”

Other startups, like Perceive, have struggled more.

Perceive offers software that automates and expands customer service training for high-end sales associates.

The company received a $750,000 grant, and Berry said it has been waiting on the second payment to become available. About 95 percent of its current funding comes from its SBIR grant.

Berry said he stopped taking a salary in December, delayed payments with vendors, postponed capital-intensive projects, and had the company take on a consulting project to bring in extra cash.

“We’re still a little on pins and needles,” he said.

Berry said he covered the recent round of payroll and will be able to fund the next one. But after that, if the grant money still hasn’t come through, his employees might have to work without pay or stop working.

“It’s such a major disruption,” he said.

And the impact could linger. Berry said the company orders some of its supplies from China. Usually, U.S. companies stock up in December and January to prepare for the time Chinese business stop during much of the 15-day Chinese New Year, which starts Feb. 5.

But this year, “we did basically the bare minimum because of the timing of the shutdown,” he said.

Perceive could suffer delays if it adds customers before it can buy more supplies. “There will be some negative impact felt for probably three to four months,” Berry said.•

https://www.ibj.com/articles/72282-small-businesses-still-feeling-federal-shutdown-hangover#.XFSnrUDCJwE.twitter

Indiana Technology & Innovation Association joins Indiana Competes coalition to push for bias crimes law

Hallowell Consulting, LLC — Thu, 31 Jan 2019 21:18:56 GMT

INDIANAPOLIS, IN – The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) today joined the bipartisan Indiana Competes coalition, which includes several local and regional Chambers of Commerce, to advocate for passage of a bias crimes law in Indiana.

Adopting a bias crimes law is part of ITIA’s 2019 policy agenda, which the association recently released. Indiana is currently one of only five states without a bias crimes law.

A majority of ITIA members who participated in a policy agenda survey expressed the need for a bias crimes law that specifically includes sexual orientation and gender identity. Governor Eric Holcomb has also advocated for legislation that includes such language.

“Indiana’s technology industry is quickly growing but there aren’t enough skilled workers to fill the jobs we’re creating. We need to remove barriers to attracting tech talent to our state and passing a bias crimes law with an enumerated list of characteristics is an important step to send the message that Indiana is a welcoming, forward-looking state,” said John McDonald, ITIA Board Member and Policy Committee Co-Chair. “This will help attract technology companies and talent to Indiana and solidify the state’s reputation as a great place to live, work and innovate. ITIA is proud to join Indiana Competes to amplify this message.”

ITIA supports a clear and specific bias crimes law that enhances penalties for criminals who target victims based on characteristics such as race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation and disability.

INDIANA TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION ASSOCIATION LAUNCHES 2019 POLICY PRIORITIES

Hallowell Consulting, LLC — Wed, 23 Jan 2019 21:17:55 GMT

INDIANAPOLIS, IN – The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA) today announced its policy agenda for the 2019 legislative session.

ITIA, which is made up of more than 100 technology companies across the state and represents Indiana’s fastest growing industry, launched in November on Organization Day.

ITIA’s policy priorities center around three core pillars critical to the success of Indiana’s technology industry – Talent, Capital and Place.

TALENT
ITIA supports the following policies to educate and train Indiana students in technical trades, skill up our current Hoosier workforce and attract technically trained workers to Indiana to fill the growing demand for tech jobs:

Provide funding for computer science training in schools to help every Indiana school meet the goal of providing computer science education by 2021.
Give schools more flexibility to develop partnerships with employers to advance career and technical education and encourage credential attainment before graduation.
Provide 50% tax credits for contributions to 501c3 entities that provide and coordinate workforce training and industry credentials.

“One of the biggest challenges facing Indiana’s tech industry is finding qualified candidates to fill technical roles,” said TechPoint CEO Mike Langellier, who serves on the ITIA Board and co-chairs the Policy Committee. “It’s critical that we provide more opportunities for technical education and retraining in Indiana, as well as incent experienced technical workers to relocate to our state.”

CAPITAL
ITIA supports the following policies to increase access to capital for tech companies at all stages, make Indiana more competitive for national venture capital investment, and encourage Indiana tech and non-tech companies to modernize and innovate:

Make the Venture Capital Investment tax credit transferable to increase investment by out-of-state investors without Indiana tax liability.
Update the Headquarters Relocation Tax Credit to allow targeted incentives to small companies with high growth potential.
Exempt purchase of data warehouse equipment and electricity use from state sales and use tax.

“Many Indiana technology companies lack the necessary capital to grow and succeed at all stages,” said ClearObject CEO John McDonald, who serves on the ITIA Board and co-chairs the Policy Committee. “We need to do more to incentivize venture capital investment in our state. Making the VCI tax credit transferable, increasing the amount of investment that qualifies and raising the overall cap are important steps to expand access to funding for Indiana’s growing tech industry.”

PLACE
ITIA supports the following policies to make Indiana a more attractive place to live and work in an effort to draw more technology and innovation-based investment, jobs and talent to our state:

Support Governor Holcomb’s proposed $100M investment in high-speed broadband internet to unserved areas.
Approve a bias crimes law.
Allow Certified Tech Parks to capture up to $500,000 annually in order to continue making investments encouraging innovation at the CTP after the $5M cap has been reached.
Add more non-stop international flights.

“For Indiana to compete with top tech hubs across the globe, we need to be able to attract top talent,” said 120WaterAudit CEO Megan Glover, who serves on the ITIA Board and Policy Committee. “Our focus is ensuring Indiana remains a thriving and welcoming environment for our industry to grow.”

For ITIA’s full 2019 Policy Agenda and future areas of focus, click here.

Inside Indiana Business: Tech Association Outlines Legislative Priorities

Hallowell Consulting, LLC — Wed, 23 Jan 2019 19:50:42 GMT

INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association, which launched in November and has grown to more than 100 members, has announced its policy agenda for the 2019 legislative session. The organization's priorities focus on attracting tech talent and capital to the state, along with strengthening quality of place. The agenda includes support for hate crimes legislation, computer science funding for schools and attracting more non-stop international flights.

During an interview with Inside INdiana Business Reporter Mary-Rachel Redman, TechPoint Chief Executive Officer Mike Langellier said it's also in the state's interest to encourage venture capital firms to come to Indiana.

In the area of talent, the ITIA is pushing for funding for computer science training in schools, giving schools more flexibility to partner with employers and providing 50 percent tax credits for contributions to organizations that focus on workforce training. Langellier says it's "critical" to provide more technical education opportunities and "incent experienced technical workers to relocate to our state."

To bring in more capital, the organization is supporting making the Venture Capital Investment tax credit transferable to boost out-of-state investors, updating the Headquarters Relocation Tax Credit to allow more incentives for small companies and exempting data warehouse equipment purchases and electricity use from state sales and use taxes.

ITIA is also advocating for policies to improve quality of place in Indiana, including supporting Governor Eric Holcomb's proposed $100 million investment in high-speed broadband internet in underserved areas and allowing Certified Tech Parks to capture up to $500,000 annually to keep making investments.

http://www.insideindianabusiness.com/story/39840273/tech-association-outlines-legislative-priorities?utm_source=delivra&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Tech%20News%20THUR%20Jan%2024%202019%20Spur%20Interactiv&utm_id=1200135&dlv-ga-memberid=30170285

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Hallowell Consulting, LLC — Wed, 21 Nov 2018 19:56:31 GMT

"Some of the biggest names and businesses in Indiana's tech sector are coming together to launch an organization to advocate for the industry with state leaders," reports Inside Indiana Business. David Becker, chairman and CEO of First Internet Bancorp and 1975 graduate of DePauw University, is chairing the Indiana Technology & Innovation Association which "will push for policies to ensure the state has a strong infrastructure for tech companies to start, enough capital for them to grow and enough talent for them to sustain and scale."

Becker says the group will give the industry "laser focus on public policy advocacy."

More than 90 companies are part of the organization, including "startups like Zionsville-based 120WaterAudit, which won Indy's first Rise of the Rest competition." The company's co-founder and CEO, Megan Glover is a 2004 DePauw graduate and is also on the organization's board. "She says the group is working on its specific agenda and priorities, and hopes to solidify the state as a tech hub of the Midwest," reports Andy Ober.

"Hopefully we can attract talent to come here," Glover says. "We don't talent going to California. We don't want talent going to Chicago. We want talent to stay here and come here, so attract and retain. And then, let's see a lot of new businesses emerge and let's see a lot of new innovation emerge and grow and become really powerhouse technology companies."

Read more, and access a video clip, at Inside Indiana Business.com.

Becker, who will appear on the statewide business program this weekend, received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2015 Inspire Awards. Learn more in this previous summary.

https://www.depauw.edu/news-media/latest-news/details/34013/

TECHNOLOGY LEADERS ACROSS THE STATE LAUNCH THE INDIANA TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION ASSOCIATION

Hallowell Consulting, LLC — Tue, 20 Nov 2018 21:15:25 GMT

More than 90 companies join newly formed organization to advocate for public policy at the statehouse

INDIANAPOLIS, IN – In the South Atrium of the Indiana State Capitol on the General Assembly’s Organization Day, more than ninety technology company leaders and representatives joined to announce the launch of the Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA). ITIA seeks to build consensus and have a consistent presence advocating for state public policy priorities critical to the success of Indiana’s technology industry. The organization is comprised of technology and innovation companies ranging from startups to Salesforce.

Indiana is home to Salesforce’s largest office outside of its San Francisco global headquarters. In a statement, Bob Stutz, CEO, Marketing Cloud & Chief Analytics Officer at Salesforce, stated, “Salesforce is a founding member of the Indiana Technology & Innovation Association because we want to be proactive in working with state leaders to ensure Indiana continues to be a thriving environment for our industry to grow. With over 1,800 employees in Indiana and plans to continue growing here, this is an investment in our ability to attract and retain talent.”

Longtime Indiana tech pioneer David Becker, who founded multiple successful tech companies and is the CEO of First Internet Bank which he started in 1999, is the Chairman of the Board of the Indiana Technology & Innovation Association (ITIA). “Forming an association with a laser focus on public policy advocacy is critical as Indiana’s technology sector prepares for significant growth. We are committed to outreach across the state, which is already underway. With a broad-based structure we will be able to educate and give voice to many companies that haven’t been engaged in this way before.”

Becker was joined by more than a dozen Board members, some of whom spoke about their interest in launching the organization.

ClearObject CEO John McDonald, who serves on the ITIA Board and co-chairs the Policy Committee, said, “Working alongside others on issues like the Next Level Fund and SaaS taxation over the last couple years, it became clear to me that our industry needs to have a consistent presence at the Statehouse and have ongoing conversations with executive and legislative branch policymakers as they work to navigate our new and complex issues.”

Megan Glover, CoFounder and CEO of 120WaterAudit, winner of Indy’s first Rise of the Rest and ITIA Board Member, explained, “I’ve been in the Indiana tech scene for 15 years and our company plans to double in staff over the next couple years. I joined the ITIA Board because I want to do everything I can to help state leaders continue to foster an environment for investment and growth in technology companies.”

Creator of the Indiana IoT Lab and Launch Fishers, ITIA Board Member John Wechsler underscored the importance for the organization to include tech leaders all across the state. “Our goal is for ITIA to provide value and a seat at the table for the “backpack and an idea” entrepreneurs and the tech giants. As I’ve traveled the state meeting with tech entrepreneurs over the last few years, there’s a real interest in becoming more engaged in policy discussions that impact their ability to succeed.”

Citing his inspiration for joining the ITIA leadership, DemandJump CoFounder and CEO, and ITIA Board Treasurer, Christopher Day, proclaimed, “Indiana is on the verge of being the epicenter of a great economic productivity boom. We are positioned to be the nation’s nucleus because the economy of the future will be the convergence of technology in all industries. With our infrastructure, talent, mission- critical industries, technology, lifestyle, cost of living and regulatory environment, Indiana can seize the opportunity that is coming.”

TechPoint CEO Mike Langellier articulates ITIA’s unique role in the state’s tech community. “TechPoint focuses on being the source of tech community executive leadership, industry intel, and programs that will accelerate the growth of Indiana’s tech ecosystem. In cases where advancing Indiana’s tech ecosystem requires public policy lobbying, we lean on partners. We had success in recent years with the Next Level Fund and the clarification of sales tax on SaaS, but even more industry and government collaboration will be required to navigate Indiana toward long-term prosperity in our digital economy. We are glad to have another partner in ITIA to help facilitate the required conversations and collaboration with legislators.”

Indiana Technology & Innovation Association Board Members include:

David Becker, First Internet Bank – Board Chair
Christopher Day, DemandJump – Board Treasurer
Pat East, Hanapin Marketing
Erin Eberly, Katz, Sapper & Miller
Megan Glover, 120 Water Audit
Darye Henry, AfterSchool HQ
Shelley Klingerman, Launch Terre Haute
Kristin Marcuccilli, STAR Financial Bank
John McDonald, Clear Object
Brent Oakley, Vibenomics – Board Secretary
Ade Olonoh, angel investor
Bill Soards, AT&T
Amy Waggoner, Salesforce
John Wechsler, Launch Fishers – Board Vice Chair

Member and Associate Member companies include:

120 Water Audit, Zionsville
3oe Scientific , Carmel
Ade Olonoh, Indianapolis
AfterSchool HQ, Fishers
Allos Ventures, Indianapolis
Ambition in Motion, Bloomington
Amplify Technology Consulting, Indianapolis
Apprentice University, Brownsburg
AT&T Indiana, Indianapolis
BitLoft, Indianapolis
BlackInk IT, Indianapolis
BLASTmedia, Fishers
Blue Horseshoe, Carmel
Boardable , Indianapolis
Bolstra, Carmel
Brite Systems, Indianapolis
Clear Software, Zionsville
ClearObject, Fishers
Corydon Group, Indianapolis
Counterpart, Fishers
Crossroads Education, Indianapolis
Cylon Technologies, Inc., Fishers
DemandJump, Indianapolis
DeveloperTown, Indianapolis
DeveloperTown Starts, Indianapolis
dot Staff / Knowledge Services, Indianapolis
Eleven Fifty Academy, Fishers
Emarsys, Indianapolis
Emplify, Fishers
FairWinds Advisors, LLC, Fishers
First Internet Bank, Fishers
FullStack, Indianapolis
gener8tor, Indianapolis
Glassboard, Indianapolis
Greenlight Guru, Indianapolis
Hanapin Marketing, Bloomington
Healthcare of Tomorrow, Indiana
Healthstatus.com, Indianapolis
HustonTech, Westfield
Indiana IoT Lab Fishers, Fishers
InGen Technologies, Inc., Indianapolis
Insperity, Indianapolis
Jane Martin, Bloomington
Katz, Sapper & Miller, Indianapolis
KSM Consulting, LLC, Indianapolis
Launch Fishers, Fishers
Launch Terre Haute, Terre Haute
LifeOmic, Indianapolis
Liven, Fishers
Lumanox LLC, Indianapolis
M25, Chicago
M3 Ultimate Solutions , Indianapolis
MatchBOX Coworking Studio, Lafayette
Matthew Nunley, Indianapolis
McGowan Insurance Group, Inc., Indianapolis
Memory Ventures, Indianapolis
Mimir , Indianapolis
MyCOI, Indianapolis
Ontario Systems, Muncie
Passageways, Lafayette
Pierce Aerospace, Carmel
Pondurance LLC, Indianapolis
Printing Resources, Inc., Indianapolis
Recovery Force, Fishers
RICS Software, Inc., Indianapolis
Rook Security, Carmel
Sales Tuners, Fishers
Salesforce, Indianapolis
Salesvue, Indianapolis
Selfless.ly Inc., Indianapolis
Slane Capital, Bloomington
SmarterHQ, Indianapolis
Springbuk, Indianapolis
STAR Financial Bank, Fort Wayne
StartedUP Innovation, Noblesville
SupplyKick, Indianapolis
Rook Security, Carmel
The Bee Corp, Bloomington
The Brookfield Group, Carmel
The Mill, Bloomington
The Union 525, Indianapolis
Thomas P. Miller and Associates, Indianapolis
Tilson, Greenwood
Tmap, Indianapolis
Ultimate Technologies Group, Fishers
VendorJump, Fishers
Vertex Intelligence , Zionsville
Vibenomics, Fishers
WhatFriendsDo, Indianapolis
WHIN, Lafayette
WorkHere, Indianapolis
Woven, Indianapolis
Zennove, Crown Point

IBJ: Tech leaders create association to lobby for industry interests at Statehouse

Hallowell Consulting, LLC — Tue, 20 Nov 2018 19:52:40 GMT

Indiana’s technology industry leaders on Tuesday morning are scheduled to announce the formation of a new trade association to represent their interests at the Statehouse.

The organization, called the Indiana Technology and Innovation Association, already includes more than 90 technology companies ranging from startups to major players such as Salesforce and AT&T.

The group has not yet finalized an agenda for the upcoming legislative session, but its policy committee is drafting positions in areas including capital and talent issues.

Tech leaders say the official group is needed to give the industry a permanent voice at the Statehouse and to be able to consistently provide updates to state lawmakers on their concerns.

The Indiana Chamber of Commerce established the Technology and Innovation Council last year, but the tech industry itself hasn't had its own trade association.

“It’s been a long time coming,” said Launch Fishers Founder and CEO John Wechsler, who is vice chairman of the board for the association. “The idea here is to create a structure, a mechanism to carry forward the voice of tech.”

John McDonald, CEO of Fishers-based ClearObject and board member for the group, said state lawmakers often ask how they can help the tech community but don’t have a thorough understanding of the problems companies are facing.

“We want to close the door to any confusion or lack of understanding of those issues,” McDonald said.

He said it became clear to him that the tech community needed something like the ITIA after the Religious Freedom Restoration Act controversy in 2015.

“We’re just amateurs,” McDonald said.

McDonald said the industry had some big policy victories in the last year regarding taxation of cloud- or subscription-based software and creation of the Next Level Fund, but he thinks they can accomplish even more now. The group is expected to hire lobbyists that will advocate for them at the Statehouse.

“There are people that know how to do this and know how to do this well,” McDonald said.

Board members told IBJ they expect the association to still work closely with the Indiana Chamber of Commerce and the Indy Chamber.

“There’s going to be a lot of things that we’re going to lock arms on,” McDonald said.

McDonald, who is working on the policy committee for the association, said issues like hate crimes legislation, trade education and access to talented workers, access to venture capital dollars and improving the health of Hoosiers are topics being discussed now. Once recommendations are made by the policy committee, the members will vote on the positions.

McDonald said he expects the group to announce a formal agenda once members have their say.

First Internet Bank CEO David Becker, who will serve as chairman of the board for the association, said he thinks the group could wield significant power given the number of companies already involved.

“Obviously, with any new startup, you’ve gotta build credibility,” Becker said. “I think we can get credibility pretty quickly. We’re here and we’re here to stay.”

Republican House Speaker Brian Bosma said the tech sector is a significant part of the state's economy, so he expects to work with the group.

"It's a very important part of our future economy, and we’ll work closely with them as we do with other groups,” Bosma said.

The growth in membership has already impressed some board members. McDonald said at one point, they were seeing a new sign-up every hour.

“It’s been remarkable,” McDonald said. “I don’t know exactly where it will end.”

Annual membership costs range from $500 to $10,000 and are based on the annual revenue of the company.

Many of the member companies are from the Indianapolis area, but others are spread throughout the state, in Bloomington, Terre Haute, Muncie, Lafayette, Crown Point and Fort Wayne.

“I’ve seen really great entrepreneurs in all corners of the state… without a real voice,” Wechsler said. "We’ve finally come together.”

Tech leaders have a press conference planned for 10:30 a.m. at the Statehouse to formally announce the creation of the association.

https://www.ibj.com/articles/71404-tech-leaders-create-association-to-lobby-for-industry-interests-at-statehouse