Our Community
Our community, in the northeastern corner of Indiana, is a beehive of economic development activity.
If you’re looking to relocate or expand your business, you’ll find the communities here especially receptive to your needs.
Allen County
The largest geographic county in Indiana · accessible by road within one day to more than 1/3 of the U.S. population · plenty of excellent sites for business location · home to a number of fine communities that offer a high quality of living and a low cost of doing business
Fort Wayne
The second-largest city in Indiana – population: almost 250,000 · vibrant downtown area with several financial institutions, a brand-new, centrally located baseball stadium, a state-of-the-art convention center, parks, museums, theatres, sidewalk cafes, fine dining establishments
New Haven
The second-largest city in Allen County – population: 13,685 · history shaped largely by transportation (the Erie Canal, the Wabash and Nickel Plate Railroads in the past; the Norfolk Southern Railway today) · offers several available business sites served by rail and within a short drive from interstate access
Woodburn
Located on the east side of Allen County, near the Indiana-Ohio line · employs a large number of Allen County’s workforce at the BF Goodrich plant · part of the Fort to Port improvement project connecting Toledo, Ohio’s port, to Fort Wayne via highway US 24
Grabill
Located in the heart of a large Amish settlement · popular for its fine retail shops and wood manufacturing industries, its quaint atmosphere, idyllic surroundings, picturesque farms, and horse-drawn vehicles
Huntertown
One of the fastest-growing towns in northeast Indiana · continually attracts new families, mainly from urban areas like Fort Wayne to new suburban developments · currently working on a new 27-acre park for Huntertown residents
Leo-Cedarville
A quiet residential community · considered ideal for raising a family · beautiful parks · an excellent school system · multiple churches representing a variety of denominations
Monroeville
Known for its charm · originally plotted in proximity to a railroad once connecting Chicago to Pittsburgh, now serving as an operational CSX line · home to one of Allen County’s largest Japanese companies, C.M.E. Automotive Corporation
Zanesville
Located in southern Allen County, 5 miles from the Fort Wayne International Airport · close to the GM Plant, 1-69, and I-469
Demographics
|
Allen County Population |
| 1970 |
280,455 |
| 1980 |
294,335 |
| 1990 |
300,836 |
| 2000 |
331,849 |
| 2009 |
353,888 |
| Source: U.S. Census Bureau |
| Population Growth, 2000-2009 |
| Allen County |
6.6% |
| Indiana |
5.6% |
| Source: U.S. Census Bureau | |
 |
| Fort Wayne Population |
| 1970 |
178,269 |
| 1980 |
172,391 |
| 1990 |
173,072 |
| 2000 |
205,727 |
| 2009 |
255,890 |
| Source: U.S. Census Bureau | |
 |
| The City of Fort Wayne has implemented an extensive annexation program over the past twenty years. In 1990, the City contained 65 square miles. This expanded to 107.6 square miles by 2006. In 2005 and 2006 respectively, the U.S. Bureau of the Census recertified the City's 2000 population count from 205,727 to an ultimate total of 250,086 based upon annexations which became effective after the 2000 decennial census. | |
| Allen County Racial Breakdown, 2009 |
| White |
83.7% |
| Black |
11.9% |
| American Indiana and Alaska Native |
0.5% |
| Asian |
2.1% |
| Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander |
0.1% |
| Two or More Races |
1.7% |
| Source: U.S. Census Bureau | |
 |
| Hispanic is not a race, but an ethnicity in Census terminology. Those declaring themselves to be Hispanic were given an opportunity to indicate race and are included in the table above. Out of the 353,888 people living in Allen County in 2009 22,538, or 6.4%, reported that they were Hispanic. |
| Fort Wayne is also home to what is estimated to be the nation's largest Burmese refugee population with approximately 6,000 living in the city. | |
| Allen County Age Breakdown, 2009 |
| 0-13 years |
20.8% |
| 14-17 years |
5.8% |
| 18-24 years |
9.0% |
| 25-44 years |
27.2% |
| 45-64 years |
25.4% |
| 65-84 years |
10.0% |
| 85+ years |
1.8% |
| Median Age |
35.3 |
| Source: U.S. Census Bureau | |
 |
 |
| Population Breakdown by Age, 2009 |
| |
Allen County |
Indiana |
United States |
|
0-13 years |
20.8% |
19.2% |
18.8% |
|
14-17 years |
5.8% |
5.6% |
5.5% |
|
18-24 years |
9.0% |
10.0% |
9.9% |
|
25-44 years |
27.2% |
26.0% |
27.1% |
|
45-64 years |
25.4% |
26.0% |
25.9% |
|
65-84 years |
10.0% |
10.8% |
11.1% |
|
85+ years |
1.8% |
2.0% |
1.8% |
|
Median Age |
35.3 |
36.8 |
36.8 |
|
Source: U.S. Census Bureau | |
|
|
| Graduation Rate 2008-2009 |
| Allen County |
88.4% |
| Indiana |
81.5% |
| Source: Indiana Department of Education | |
| Educational Attainment of Persons 25 or Older, 2006-08 |
| |
Allen County |
Indiana |
United States |
| Less than High School |
11.9% |
14.3% |
15.5% |
| High School Graduate |
32.1% |
36.4% |
29.6% |
| Some College |
21.3% |
19.8% |
20.1% |
| Associate's Degree |
9.1% |
7.3% |
7.4% |
| Bachelor's Degree |
17.4% |
14.2% |
17.3% |
| Master's, Professional, or PhD |
8.2% |
8.0% |
10.1% |
| Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006-08 ACS | |
| Allen County Income, 2008 |
| Per Capita Personal Income |
$34,652 |
| Average Annual Wage |
$37,468 |
| Median Household Income |
$49,110 |
| Source: BEA, BLS QCEW Program, U.S. Census Bureau |
|  |
| Housing Units, 2006-08 |
| Total Housing Units |
152,193 |
| Occupied |
136,190 |
| Owner Occupied |
96,771 |
| Renter Occupied |
39,419 |
| Seasonal or Recreational, 2000 Census |
501 |
| Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006-08 ACS |
|
| Households in 2000 |
| Total Households |
128,745 |
| Family Households |
86,235 |
| Married with Children |
31,048 |
| Married without Children |
35,203 |
| Single Parents |
12,836 |
| Other |
7,148 |
| Non-family Households |
42,510 |
| Living Alone |
35,279 |
| Average Household Size |
2.53 |
| Average Family Household Size |
3.11 |
| Source: U.S. Census Bureau | |
Updated on: July 22, 2010
Advanced Manufacturing
For many years, Fort Wayne has proved itself as a leader in advanced manufacturing.
From motor vehicle production at the General Motors Assembly Plant to innovative projects at CME Automotive and Regal-Beloit, companies have chosen northeast Indiana for their corporate offices and facilities. This cluster covers a large amount of companies dealing with electronics to building supplies.
Many leading Indiana companies, who specialize in advanced manufacturing, have found their place in Fort Wayne and Allen County. Some of these prominent Indiana companies are Steel Dynamics (SDI), Fort Wayne Metals Research, Rea Magnet Wire, and Trelleborg. These companies, among others in the area, make our advanced manufacturing industry strong.
Fort Wayne and Allen County's manufacturing presence is undeniable and we are committed to growing and moving forward with the latest technology and products. Our extensive transportation options, hard-working and educated workforce and central location that make us perfect for advanced manufacturing.
| Major Employers |
| General Motors Truck Group |
3,408 |
| ITT Communications Systems |
1,790 |
| BFGoodrich |
1,406 |
| Steel Dynamics Inc. |
975 |
| B.A.E. Systems Platform Solutions |
899 |
| Parker Hannifin Corporation |
500 |
| Fort Wayne Metals Research Products Corp. |
491 |
| Edy's Grand Ice Cream |
486 |
| Dana Corporation |
420 |
| Vera Bradley |
407 |
| For a more extensive listing of advanced manufacturing employers with additional detail, please visit our Major Employers page. |
| Annual Average Wages By Occupation, 2008 |
| |
Allen |
U.S. |
Allen/U.S. |
|
Electrical Engineers |
$79,325 |
$85,350 |
92.9% |
|
Electronics Engineers, Except Computer |
$81,063 |
$88,670 |
91.4% |
|
Industrial Engineers |
$64,794 |
$75,740 |
85.5% |
|
Mechanical Engineers |
$66,422 |
$78,200 |
84.9% |
|
Electrical & Electronic Engineering Technicians |
$53,360 |
$53,990 |
98.8% |
|
Industrial Engineering Technicians |
$50,756 |
$50,070 |
101.4% |
| Industrial Machinery Mechanics |
$45,387 |
$45,280 |
100.2% |
|
First-Line Supervisors/Managers of Production & Operating Workers |
$53,805 |
$53,500 |
100.6% |
|
Electrical & Electronic Equipment Assemblers |
$29,722 |
$29,410 |
101.1% |
|
Electromechanical Equipment Assemblers |
$36,656 |
$30,520 |
120.1% |
|
Team Assemblers |
$27,330 |
$27,630 |
98.9% |
| Computer-Controlled Machine Tool Operators, Metal and Plastic |
$34,283 |
$34,520 |
99.3% |
| Extruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic |
$35,037 |
$31,030 |
112.9% |
| Machinists |
$33,975 |
$37,490 |
90.6% |
| Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers |
$31,653 |
$35,370 |
89.5% |
| Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers & Weighers |
$31,435 |
$33,890 |
92.8% |
| Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, OES and Indiana DWD |
News Releases
Mission Statement
Our Mission
The mission of the Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance is to create and retain quality jobs for area
residents by recruiting new base employers and retaining (and expanding)
existing base employers in Allen County, Indiana.
Business Retention/Expansion
We take an outreach approach to local businesses.
In practice, that means we work diligently to inform the business decision makers at existing Fort Wayne-Allen County companies of all the options available to them for expansion.
We’re also a participant in NE Insider, a business retention and expansion program for northeast Indiana that’s supported by the Northeast Indiana Fund.
Are you planning on buying equipment for your business, adding employees or expanding your facility? Contact us to find out what incentives are available to you from the City, County or State. If you would like one of our project managers to visit your business as a part of the
NE Insider program, fill out the
contact form and we'll arrange for someone to meet with you.
Working with us to create a favorable work environment for all existing Fort Wayne-Allen County businesses is a special committee. It’s composed of business and community leaders who’ve dedicated themselves to enhancing the business retention and expansion opportunities in our area.
Committee Members
Andi Udris, Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance
Scott Naltner, Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance
Karl Bandemer, Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance
Ashley Steenman, Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance
Patrick Dooley, Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance
Elissa McGauley, City of Fort Wayne
Scott Harrold, Allen County
Kirk Moriarty, Urban Enterprise Association
Robyn Nicholls, WorkOne Northeast
Dale Buuck, Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership
Brandon Talbert, Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership
Brook Steed, Indiana Economic Development Corporation
For more information on our business retention and expansion resources, contact The Alliance.
Local Incentives
Local Incentives and Resources
Property Tax Abatements
Tax phase-in gives local government the option of allowing certain businesses to phase-in those new taxes that would otherwise be assessed to their property because of new building construction or the purchase of equipment used for manufacturing, research and development, logistical distribution and information technology.
Industrial Revenue Bonds
Industrial Revenue Bonds, also called Economic Development Revenue Bonds provide financing for economic development projects. The proceeds from the bonds, which can be issued by a local government, are loaned to businesses to pay for buildings or other capital investment projects. The bonds must be paid back by the company. As the issuer of the bonds, the local government’s participation typically results in favorable interest rates and longer terms. Most often, these bonds are tax exempt.
CEDIT Incentive Pool
Offered as a loan or grant from the City of Fort Wayne to a company. Grants are offered to companies paying employees an average annual wage equal to or greater than the Fort Wayne MSA wage. The amount of the loan or grant is based on the number of jobs created and the average annual wages paid.
Tax Increment Financing
TIF districts are established through redevelopment commissions. New taxes generated as a result of development in the TIF may be used as debt service on bonds issued for the purpose of developments and improvements in the area. Proceeds from the bonds may be used to construct public improvements on roads, sewers, etc.
Expanding Your View
Ribbon Cuttings/ Ground Breakings
Regional Incentives
Regional Incentives and Resources
The Community Development Corporation of Northeast Indiana (CDC) is a City of Fort Wayne sponsored 501 c (6) not for profit business development organization. Our primary objective is to promote the growth and development of small commercial and industrial for profit businesses in Indiana through creative loan programs.
The purpose of the Northeast Indiana SBDC is to enhance economic development in northeast Indiana by assisting new and existing small business. The SBDC is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration, the State of Indiana, and many local partners, including the City of Fort Wayne and Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW).
WorkOne connects with various state and federal agencies offer grants and incentives to businesses to help train workers. WorkOne can also assist with hiring a skilled workforce for companies that are expanding operations.
Downtown Development
We’re here to help businesses thrive in downtown Fort Wayne.
Our downtown development focus is on advancing the goals of the Downtown Fort Wayne Blueprint, the Plan-It Allen County Comprehensive Plan, and other urban revitalization initiatives.
We accomplish this by facilitating…
- real-estate acquisition
- redevelopment
- rehabilitation
- new construction
We’ve also partnered with the Downtown Improvement District (DID) to create the Downtown Trust, which seeks money and property for short- and long-term downtown capital projects.
Through our committee, which is composed of business and community leaders interested in the success of downtown Fort Wayne development, we provide…
- project feasibility analysis
- selective pre-development assistance for downtown and neighborhood corridor projects, including technical, architectural, environmental, engineering, and market analysis
- collaboration with private and public partners to effectively market specific sites for development projects
- land banking of key future development sites until the appropriate project and/or development team can be identified
- liaison services to expedite permitting, application of code, and dealing with regulatory issues
- assistance to developers seeking to attract financing from a variety of public and private sources
- assistance in promoting quality urban design
- partnership with private and public developers to fill financing gaps, mitigate risks, and jumpstart projects (when necessary, also undertaking anchor and other strategic projects on a proactive basis
Committee Members
Scott Glaze, Committee Chair, Fort Wayne Metals
Rich Davis, Vice Chair, Downtown Improvement District
Greg Leatherman, City of Fort Wayne
Paula Hughes, Allen County
Jim Sparrow, United Arts
Steve Brody
Charles Heiny, Downtown Improvement District
Zack Benedict, Young Leaders of Northeast Indiana
Lisa Updike, Young Leader s of Northeast Indiana
Standing Members
Jim Cook, Chase Bank
Karl Bandemer, Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance
Resources
For further information on our downtown development efforts, contact The Alliance.
Where We Are
We’re right where you want to be!
It’s not hard at all to zero in on one of the liveliest centers of economic development in the nation. Just follow the arrows: United States > Midwest > Indiana > Allen County > Fort Wayne. That’s it! You’ve arrived.
As economic developers, we represent a county that can accommodate almost any business, any individual.
Do you prefer an urban setting or rural? We’ve got it!
Are you looking for an affordable place to live and do business. We’ve got it!
What about cultural and sporting venues? We’ve got those, too!
Though Allen County is fundamentally rural in nature, it’s geographically the largest county in Indiana. And at it’s heart is the state’s second-largest city, Fort Wayne: population, almost 255,000. You’ll love that it’s home to …
- a variety of amateur and professional sports teams
- a philharmonic orchestra
- several diverse museums
- and so much more to sharpen your mind, revive your spirit, engage your soul, and keep you happy!
In addition, Allen County is adjacent to other counties that enhance the quality of life here, contribute to our media market, and assist with the economic growth of Fort Wayne.
The Combined Statistical Area (CSA) population is 569,636. This includes Allen County and the six counties surrounding it.
The Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) is 408,071. This includes Allen, Wells, and Whitley counties, all of which are within an hour’s drive or less from downtown Fort Wayne. Each of these counties offers an abundance of lakes, affordable property, and well-maintained roads for pleasurable commuting.
Events
Agri-Processing
Indiana companies in the agri-processing industry value land, location and hard-work.
Allen County offers the agri-processing industry customer access through our extensive transportation options, proximity to large markets, business incentives and affordable site options. And, our Indiana workforce is dedicated and hard-working. Those are just some of the reasons that the agri-processing industry thrives in Allen County.
Agriculture plays a vital role in Indiana's economy. The state has more than 60,000 farms covering approximately 14.7 million acres of farmland. In 2007, crop sales, totaling $5.3 billion, were ranked tenth in the United States. Indiana is a leader in the production of corn and soybeans and actively promotes the use of bio-fuels including ethanol and blended bio-fuels derived from corn and soybeans.
Fort Wayne is home to several food production facilities and non-food agri-processing operations. Indiana's natural environment and the state's commitment to supporting the agricultural industry make the state an ideal location for agricultural business opportunities.
| Major Employers |
|
Edy's Grand Ice Cream |
486 |
|
Supervalu-FW Division |
400 |
|
C&M Fine Pack |
384 |
|
Mullinix Packages, Inc. |
348 |
|
Lincoln Foodservice Products |
330 |
|
Heritage Food Service |
194 |
|
Regal Beloit |
180 |
|
Pyromation |
158 |
|
Pepsi-Cola Bottlers, Inc. |
135 |
| Prairie Farms Dairy |
131 |
| For a more extensive listing of agri-processing employers with additional detail, please visit our Major Employers page. |
| Annual Average Wages By Occupation, 2008 |
|
Allen County |
U.S. |
Allen/U.S. |
|
Dietitians & Nutritionists |
$46,310 |
$51,470 |
89.9% |
|
Farming, Fishing, and Forestry |
$34,555 |
$23,560 |
146.6% |
|
Bakers |
$25,539 |
$25,050 |
101.9% |
|
Butchers & Meat Cutters |
$31,643 |
$29,700 |
106.5% |
|
Crushing, Grinding & Polishing Machine Operators |
$41,548 |
$31,360 |
132.9% |
|
Cutting & Slicing Machine Operators |
$34,405 |
$30,020 |
114.1% |
|
Extruding, Forming, Pressing & Compacting Machine Operators |
$42,791 |
$30,430 |
140.6% |
|
Molders, Shapers & Casters, Except Metal & Plastic |
$26,467 |
$29,090 |
90.9% |
| Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, OES and Indiana DWD |
Farm Business
Almost 14.8% of all farms in Northeast Indiana (EGR 3) are located in Allen County, while comprising only 13.0% of farmland in Northeast Indiana.
Allen County also makes up the following for Northeast Indiana:
- 13.4% of all harvested cropland
- 6.6% of all cattle inventory
- 5.1% of milk cows
- 7.6% of all cattle and calves sold
- 7.9% of all hog and pig inventory
- 9.6% of all hogs and pigs sold
- 11.8% of all sheep & lamb inventory
- 22.3% of all wheat for grain
- 29.4% of all oats for grain
- 14.6% of all soybeans
- 19.4% of all non citrus farms
- 22.5% of all apple farms
- 28.0% of all nut farms
- 12.9% of organic farms
- 13.7% of all corn for grain in Northeast Indiana
Farming Information Source: 2007 USDA Census of Agriculture
Education
| Colleges and Universities in Allen County |
| |
|
Degrees Offered |
Concentration of Degrees Awarded in |
|
Associate's |
Bachelor's |
Master's |
Doctorate |
| Brown Mackie College |
800 |
x |
x |
|
|
Business, Criminal Justice, Health Professions |
| Concordia Theological Seminary |
390 |
|
|
x |
x |
Theology/Ministry |
| Harrison College |
500 |
x |
x |
|
|
Business, Health Professions |
| International Business College |
700 |
x |
x |
|
|
Business, Health Professions, Commercial Art |
| IPFW (Indiana U.-Purdue U.) |
11,900 |
x |
x |
x |
|
Business, Education, Computer Science, Engineering, Liberal Arts |
| Indiana Tech |
3,300 |
x |
x |
x |
x* |
Business, Engineering, Computer Science |
| Indiana Wesleyan (FW Campus) |
700 |
x |
x |
x |
|
Business, Education, Health |
| ITT Technical Institute |
700 |
x |
x |
|
|
Engineering Tech., Computer Science |
| Ivy Tech Community College** |
6,600 |
x |
|
|
|
Business, Engineering Tech., Health Professions |
| MedTech College |
300 |
x |
|
|
|
Opened Fall 2008, MedTech has not completed a full cycle for any of its programs. |
| Trine University (FW Campus) |
200 |
|
x |
x |
|
Business,Criminal Justice |
| Univ. of Saint Francis |
2,100 |
x |
x |
x |
|
Business, Education, Health Professions |
| Source: NationalCenter for Education Statistics, MedTech College, Indiana Wesleyan Fort Wayne |
| *Indiana Tech started a Ph.D. program in global leadership in the fall of 2009. |
| **Ivy Tech also has an extensive list of certification programs to choose from as well as technical training. |
 |
Almost two-thirds of the 4,494 Associate's, Bachelor's, and Masters degrees awarded in 2008 by Allen County universities were in Business, Engineering, Computers, Math, or Health.
To see where our colleges and universities are located in Allen County visit our Map room. |
|
Other Resources
|
Nearby Major Education Institutions
- Ball State University
- Purdue University
- Notre Dame
- Western Michigan
- Trine University
- Indiana Wesleyan, Marion
- Taylor University
- Huntington University
- Manchester College
|
|
Business and Education Partnerships
- IVY TECH and City of Fort Wayne and FW Community Schools- Airframes and Power Plant Field School
- Institute for Pension Plan Management Established at IPFW with support from Lincoln Financial Group, Baker and Daniels, and ASPPA.
- Northeast Innovation Center:
- IPFW- Office of Engagement, Entrepreneurial Teacher's Boot Camp, Center for Industrial Innovation & Design
- Ivy Tech- New Tech Center, Strategic Air Transportation Services (INSATS)
- IPFW and the Corporate Council to sponsor technology showcase
- IPFW Wireless Technology Center sponsored by ITT and Raytheon
- Boot Camp in Logistics with IPFW School of Business, secondary education institutions, Northeast Indiana Workforce Investment Board
|
Elementary and Secondary EducationThere is an array of local education options in Allen County, Indiana. From public to private and parochial, as well as magnet, charter, and Montessori schools, choices abound. Over 53,000 children were enrolled and educated in an Allen County public school last year, with over another 10,000 enrolled in a private or parochial school. Pre-school is another important component of education, with many public and private schools offering a pre-school option. For a listing of all elementary and secondary schools, as well as more data for each school such as enrollment, graduation rates, standardized test scores, etc., please visit the Indiana State Department of Education. This site also provides information on the four public school corporations in Allen County. For comparison data on Allen County schools and corporations, please visit the Allen County Success by Six web site. In addition to the above data, there are specialty programs offered in Allen County. For example,
- an International Baccalaureate diploma is offered at South Side High School
- Spanish Immersion program at Lindley Elementary
- New Tech High School at Wayne High School
- Japanese Saturday School at IPFW
|
Updated on: March 22, 2010
Accessibility
Accessibility is our Business in Fort Wayne-Allen County, Indiana!
Just look at how high Indiana ranks nationally when it comes to logistics:
- 1st in interstates
- 4th in total freight railroads
- 4th in first-class railroads
And internationally? We have the world’s 2nd largest FedEx air hub.
Check out these great statistics, too:
- Businesses in Allen County have only a one-day drive to more than one-third of the U.S. population and one-fifth of Canadians.
- Our rail lines – which include CSX and Norfolk Southern – provide ready access to the nation and its ports.
- More than 50 trucking companies serve Allen County, using major interstates, U.S. highways, and state roads that cross the county.
- Fort Wayne International Airport hosts an airstrip so long that the space shuttle could safely land on it! And, you’ll love the scheduled flights to major cities across the United States.
- Fort Wayne is just a little over 2 hours from the Port of Indiana-Burns Harbor on Lake Michigan and the Port of Toledo on Lake Erie.
Roadways Serving Allen County
- 4 U.S. highways
- 7 state roads
Railways Serving Allen County
- Class I freight railroad: Norfolk Southern
- Two CSX short line partners: the Chicago, Fort Wayne & Eastern Railroad and the Maumee & Western Railroad
- Norfolk Southern and CSX covering more than 42,000 miles of track through 20-plus states and some of Canada
- Triple Crown, a Norfolk Southern affiliate, headquartered in Fort Wayne; provides bimodal, truckload transportation services throughout the eastern two-thirds of the United States and parts of Canada
Airports & Airlines Serving Allen County
- Fort Wayne International Airport
- currently home to four major carriers: United, Delta, American, and Allegiant Air
- Nearly 600,000 passengers served in 2009
- 37 non-stop departures to Chicago, Atlanta, Dallas/Fort Worth, Tampa, and other major cities
- Air cargo service in excess of 7,500 tons in 2008
- Foreign Trade Zone #182 – a general-purpose zone on 485 acres
- Kelly Commerce Aero Centre – 110 acres of light industrial space, part of Indiana’s Shovel Ready Program
- Smith Field in Fort Wayne
- a general aviation airport
- offers flight instruction and aviation maintenance technology classes
Seaports Serving Allen County
- Port of Indiana-Burns Harbor on Lake Michigan
- Port of Toledo on Lake Erie
- Both providing …
- access to the Saint Lawrence Seaway
- an experienced workforce
- the facilities needed to handle all types of bulk, break bulk, project cargo, and containers
Relocate your business to Allen County, and you’re hot-wired to the world! Contact The Alliance for details.
Living Here
Looking to relocate? This is the place you’ll want to call home.
Allen County, Indiana, is a place of contrasts – a place that can accommodate almost anyone’s interests.
The attraction of living here?
- family-friendly neighborhoods
- idyllic rural communities
- vibrant downtown areas
- great shops and restaurants
- an exciting nightlife
- sports
- parks
- high culture, pop culture, and everything in-between!
Businesses who relocate here can rest assured their employees will feel right at home.
Fort Wayne, for example, offers a range of attractive suburbs as well as a lively, progressive downtown that features…
- Parkview Field, a brand-new baseball stadium with a multi-use amphitheatre – home to the Fort Wayne TinCaps
- The Allen County Public Library – noted, among other things, for having the nation’s 2nd-largest genealogy collection
- The Embassy Theatre – a classic venue for plays and concerts
- The Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory
- The Fort Wayne Museum of Art – which hosts The Fort Wayne Civic Theatre
- The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo
- all kinds of sidewalk cafes and pubs – like Dash In, JK O’Donnell’s, and Toscani’s
- among the finest restaurants you’ll find anywhere – try Club Soda or the Bourbon Street Hideaway for starters
Maybe you or other of your employees want to get away from the city lights. You’re in luck. Allen County has plenty of quaint towns and rural areas – perfect places to live the quiet life or get away for a relaxing weekend.
The cost of living here?
Much lower than the national average! Living and working in Allen County enables people to…
- own their dream homes
- raise their children comfortably
- enjoy more of the finer things in life
Young professionals will find Allen County a particularly good place to start or advance their careers. This is a progressive area that’s constantly growing, evolving – and helping people achieve success.
Airport Development
Join our growing business community at the Fort Wayne International Airport!
Fort Wayne International Airport (FWA) is served by 6 major carriers: Allegiant Air, American/American Eagle, Continental Connection, Delta/ASA and Comair, Northwest, and United/United Express. Daily commercial flights are scheduled to the following gateways: Atlanta, Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Dallas-Ft. Worth, Detroit, Fort Lauderdale, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Orlando, Phoenix, Tampa/St. Petersburg. The terminal is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. FWA serves approximately 600,000 passengers annually.
The businesses near FWA serve a vital role in the community's development and continue to increase their capacity and number of employees.
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FWA Airport Development Map
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Photo Library
What We Do
First and foremost, we’re collaborators.
We have to be, partnering as we do – or fostering other kinds of relationships – with so many foundations, organizations, government entities, and businesses in our community.
Our customers rely on us for fast, efficient assistance, too. And, with the largest staff of economic developers in our region, we don’t let them down. Among our staff members you’ll find …
- an in-house City employee and an in-house County employee with whom we work directly to expedite every customer request, every project
- an employee at the Fort Wayne International Airport who facilitates foreign trade and airport development
- an expert in international business relocation and retention
Our approach to customer service is simple.
We provide everything necessary for a company to remain here and be as successful as possible in our market. That includes the services of the best-qualified professionals in the economic development industry.
Our goal is to make a client company’s pro-Fort Wayne-Allen County decision as easy and justifiable as we can. To that end, we partner with appropriate agencies and government entities to provide all possible incentives and services.
Our methodology is innovative. For example…
- We provide unique bonding opportunities, loans, and grants.
- We work directly with commercial brokers to facilitate property buy-downs and other incentives for our customers.
- We’re willing to “go the distance” for our customers to ensure that they keep and grow their operations in Fort Wayne-Allen County.
In all of our customer dealings, we pride ourselves on treating everyone equally. To us, small projects are just as important as large ones. And after a project’s completed? We continue nurturing the relationship – for the client’s benefit and the community’s.
Our customer service doesn’t begin and end with just economic development clients, either. You wouldn’t believe the number of calls for community information we get from all kinds of people representing all kinds of enterprises – or simply representing themselves! But that’s what we’re here for. Given our knowledge base and virtually unlimited community resources, we’re in a unique position to provide the assistance requested, even for those who aren’t our direct customers.
Government & Labor Relations
We’re the perfect liaison.
We bring together economic development resources from local and state government, then we provide these resources to businesses interested in locating or expanding their operations in Fort Wayne-Allen County.
In this capacity, we serve as a liaison for businesses looking to open up lines of communication with city, county, and state government entities in order to enhance business-labor relations. Our goal is for the business community to become more proactive in assisting management and labor relations. The City of Fort Wayne has an excellent labor-management program where organized labor and management truly get along. Our focus is to use a team approach to continue communications between labor and management in the interest of creating jobs.
By working closely with members of government on various projects, we strengthen our ties to them. This makes it easier to connect them to growing companies.
Our committee, which is made up of business and community leaders interested in fostering government relations, works with us to facilitate access to government for all companies interested in conducting business in Fort Wayne-Allen County.
Committee Members
Don Schenkel, Committee Chair, University of Saint Francis
Michael Wartell, Vice Chair, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne
Mike Packnett, Parkview Hospital
Tim Pape, Fort Wayne City Council
Mike Schatzlein, Lutheran Hospital
Mayor Tom Henry, City of Fort Wayne
Darren Vogt, Allen County Council
John Sampson, Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership
Joni Howell, Greater Fort Wayne Chamber of Commerce
Resources
To learn more about our focus on government and labor relations, contact The Alliance.
State Incentives
State Incentives and Resources
Tax Credits
Economic Development for a Growing Economy Tax Credit (EDGE)
The Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) is a refundable tax credit program that rewards companies creating jobs and contributing to the growth of Indiana’s economy. EDGE credits are calculated as a percentage of payroll tax withholding for net new Indiana jobs. EDGE credits may be awarded for a period of up to 10 years.
Hoosier Business Investment Tax Credit (HBITC)
This program encourages capital investment in Indiana by providing a credit against a company’s Indiana tax liability. The credit amount is based on a company’s qualified capital investment with the final credit amount determined by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, based on an analysis of the economic benefits of the proposed investment.
Industrial Recovery Tax Credit (Dinosaur Building)
The Industrial Recovery tax credit provides an incentive for companies to invest in facilities requiring significant rehabilitation or remodeling expense. After a building has been designated as an industrial recovery site, companies may be eligible for a tax credit calculated as a percentage of qualified rehabilitation expense.
Venture Capital Investment Tax Credit
The Venture Capital Investment Tax Credit was established to improve access to capital to fast growing Indiana companies by providing individual and corporate investors an additional incentive to invest in early stage firms. Investors who provide qualified debt or equity capital to Indiana companies receive a credit against their Indiana income tax liability.
Headquarters Relocation Tax Credit
When a business relocates its corporate headquarters (defined as the location of the principal office of the principal executives) to Indiana, it is entitled to a credit against its state tax liability equal to half of the costs incurred in relocating the headquarters. A company must have a worldwide annual revenue of at least $100 million to qualify.
Grants
21st Century Research and Technology Fund
The Indiana 21st Century Research and Technology Fund was created to stimulate the process of diversifying the State's economy by developing and commercializing advanced technologies in Indiana. The Board, representing most of the academic and commercial sectors of the State, approves awards.
Small Business Innovation Research Initiative (SBIR/STTR)
The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) - along with its sister program, the Small Business Technology Transfer program (STTR) - are highly competitive and encourage small businesses to explore their technological potential. SBIR/STTR funding is available from 11 participating agencies throughout the United States and focuses on various technological areas.
Industrial Development Grant Fund (IDGF)
This grant provides money to local governments for off-site infrastructure projects associated with an expansion of an existing Indiana company or the location of a new facility in Indiana. State funding through the IDGF program must be matched by a combination of local government and company financial support.
Loans
Tax-exempt Bonds
Private Activity Bonds are often called Industrial Revenue Bonds (IRBs) or Industrial Development Bonds (IDBs) and are issued by state or local governmental entities for the benefit of a private company, usually manufacturers. Interest on the bonds is generally exempt from federal income taxes for investors, which typically results in lower long-term interest rates to the borrower.
Loan Guaranty Program
IEDC can provide a loan guaranty to a lender for the benefit of a high-growth/high-skilled company, manufacturer, rural development project, value-added agricultural enterprise or another type of business that creates or retains a significant number of Hoosier jobs.
Capital Access Program (CAP)
The Capital Access Program (CAP) is a small business credit enhancement program that creates a specific cash reserve fund for the lender to use as additional collateral for loans enrolled in the Program. CAP allows lenders to consider loans that might not meet conventional lending requirements.
Special Programs
Certified Technology Park Program
The Certified Technology Parks program supports the attraction and growth of high-technology business in Indiana and promotes technology transfer opportunities. Designation as a Certified Tech Park allows for the local recapture of certain state and local tax revenue which can be invested in the development of the park. Allen County, Indiana's Certified Technology Park is the
Northeast Indiana Innovation Center.
Shovel Ready Program
The Shovel Ready Program is a new state program created to help communities certify sites as "ready for development." Shovel Ready is designed to ultimately help companies locate and develop a property site quickly. This provides a competitive advantage for Indiana and gets Hoosier jobs here faster. Allen County has more certified Shovel Ready sites available than any other county in the state of Indiana: Silverado Industrial Park and James E. Kelley Commerce Aerocentre.
Patent Tax Exemption
The Patent Tax Exemption allows certain income derived from qualified patents to be exempt from taxation. The Tax Exemption for Patent-Derived Income defines qualified patents to include only utility patents and plant patents. The total amount of exemptions claimed by a taxpayer in a taxable year may not exceed $5 million.
Workforce Training
Skills Enhancement Fund (SEF)
The Skills Enhancement Fund (SEF) provides financial assistance to businesses committed to training their workforce. Trainees must be Indiana residents. SEF reimburses eligible training expenses over a two-year term. Companies may reapply for additional SEF funds after their initial two-year term. IEDC typically does not provide reimbursement for training that is required by law.
Foreign Investment
Industrial Properties
We work strategically to promote long-term quality business development.
In this effort, we advise our partners on the allocation and management of land and other resources.
Land banking is a priority for us – as well as making sure properties meet the qualifications to become certified.
We use our sites-and-buildings database to inform companies of industrial properties that have become available and to promote those properties.
Our committee, which is composed of business and community leaders interested in growing available industrial properties, works together with us to identify and acquire ideal land parcels located in Allen County.
Committee Members
Jill Perillo, Committee Chair, AEP
Paula Hughes, Allen County Council
Steve Wesner, Martin Goldstine Knapke
Mark Royse, Allen County
Scott Harrold, Allen County
John Urbahns, City of Fort Wayne
Elissa McGauley, City of Fort Wayne
Brian Yoh, City of New Haven
Brandon Talbert, Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership
Tory Richardson, Fort Wayne-Allen County Airport Authority
Patrick Dooley, Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance
Nelson Peters, Allen County Commissioner
Andi Udris, Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance
Scott Naltner, Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance
Ashley Steenman, Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance
Resources
City of Fort Wayne – www.cityoffortwayne.org
Allen County – www.allencounty.us
State of Indiana – www.in.gov
Contact The Alliance for more information on our role in helping develop industrial properties in Fort Wayne-Allen County.
Staff
Video Library
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Expanding Your View |
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Episode 5 Part 3
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July 10, 2010 - Alliance president, Andi Udris, sits down with Ashley Steenman, Brook Steed and Gary Gatman to discuss incentives and help available to growing businesses.
View more episodes of Expanding Your View |
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Ribbon Cuttings |
Experienced Office Solutions Ribbon Cutting
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View more videos of Ribbon Cuttings/Groundbreakings |
Communications & Defense
Our communications and defense contracting industry assists with endeavors at home and abroad.
From telecommunications and print publications here in Fort Wayne to military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, there is a limitless number of projects your company can tackle in this area.
Indiana invests heavily in information technology (IT) infrastructure. The state's fiber optic network is among the best in the nation. Verizon Communications (now Frontier Communications Corp.) has recently invested $100 million in a FTTP (Fiber to the Premise) program in Fort Wayne.
In 2005, the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) effort handed down a decision to retain the 122nd Fighter Wing presence in Fort Wayne and also made the addition of 300 defense jobs.
| Major Employers |
| ITT Corp. |
1,790 |
| Raytheon Systems Co |
1,200 |
| Frontier Communications Corp. |
1,200 |
| Navistar International Corp. |
1,150 |
| BAE Systems Platform Solutions |
899 |
| IN Air National Guard, 122nd Fighter Wing |
588 |
| AT&T |
373 |
| Stuart Manufacturing |
189 |
| Comcast |
174 |
| Riverside Manufacturing |
150 |
| For a more extensive listing of communications & defense employers with additional detail, please visit our Major Employers page. |
| Annual Average Wages By Occupation, 2008 |
| |
Allen |
U.S. |
Allen/U.S. |
|
Electrical Engineers |
$79,325 |
$85,350 |
92.9% |
|
Electronics Engineers, Except Computer |
$81,063 |
$88,670 |
91.4% |
|
Industrial Engineers |
$64,794 |
$75,740 |
85.5% |
|
Mechanical Engineers |
$66,422 |
$78,200 |
84.9% |
|
Electrical & Electronic Engineering Technicians |
$53,360 |
$53,990 |
98.8% |
|
Industrial Engineering Technicians |
$50,756 |
$50,070 |
101.4% |
|
First-Line Supervisors/Managers of Production & Operating Workers |
$53,805 |
$53,500 |
100.6% |
|
Electrical & Electronic Equipment Assemblers |
$29,722 |
$29,410 |
101.1% |
|
Electromechanical Equipment Assemblers |
$36,656 |
$30,520 |
120.1% |
|
Team Assemblers |
$27,330 |
$27,630 |
98.9% |
| Machinists |
$33,975 |
$37,490 |
90.6% |
| Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers & Weighers |
$31,435 |
$33,890 |
92.8% |
| Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, OES and Indiana DWD |
Defense Opportunities
In August 2009 Partners In Contracting Corporation established the Procurement Technical Assistance Center for the Northeast Indiana Region. The center is a resource providing assistance with all aspects of marketing to federal, state, and local governments. It is a not-for-profit organization and there is no fee for most services. PICC-PTAC is partnered with the Northeast Indiana Defense Industry Association with a goal of forward identifying and strengthening the defense cluster supply chain.
For more information on PICC-PTAC visit www.PICCorp.org or contact Gil Perry at the PTAC office in Fort Wayne at 260-481-0491.
Future Growth in Defense for Allen County
Lilly Endowment Inc. will provide $20 million to an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne to accelerate the development of northeast Indiana's workforce and talent resources. The program, entitled Talent Initiative, will develop education, training and talent initiatives in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The Initiative - an unprecedented collaboration in northeast Indiana - will better prepare the region's workforce to capture the high-quality job opportunities available in the near term and those of the future.
Components of the Talent Initiative include support for the following critical initiatives:
- Retraining at least 1,200 adult workers in northeast Indiana over the next three years
- Enhancement of the Advanced Manufacturing program at Ivy Tech - Northeast
- Expansion of the systems engineering and wireless technology programs at Indiana University-Purdue University- Fort Wayne (IPFW)
- Creation of New Tech High Schools within school corporations in northeast Indiana, with an emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) courses
The Talent Initiative includes significant and targeted educational and workforce programs for the aerospace and defense industries. One immediate goal is to prepare workers to assume more than 4,000 projected new and replacement jobs in these industries. The programs also will be relevant to the workforce development needs of other advanced manufacturing sectors in northeast Indiana. Northeast Indiana is home to over 160 defense/aerospace prime contractors and suppliers. During 2005 and 2006 the six largest firms in this sector received a total of $2 billion in prime contracts from the Department of Defense.
Doing Business Here
We Get Deals Done!
We’re confident you’re going to enjoy doing business here in Allen County. Businesses like these have used our services to help expand their operations because they like doing business in our community:
Our
News Releases will help you learn more about what we can provide to make your project a success!
Look at the stats:
Indiana Tax Information
- No gross receipts tax in Indiana · No inventory tax
Corporate Income Tax
- Calculated at a flat 8.5% of adjusted gross income · Simplifies tax calculations for corporations · Does not apply to S corporations or not-for-profit corporations
Single-Sales Factor
- Calculates the Indiana portion of an interstate or international corporation’s taxable income solely on the basis of that corporation’s Indiana sales · Factors in the Indiana portion of a corporation’s property and the proportion of its employees in Indiana · Being phased in now – will be completely phased in by 2011
Sales and Use Tax
- Calculated at a rate of 7% · Exempted in manufacturing: raw materials, equipment, power, electricity, utilities · Also exempted: wholesale sales, items used directly in production, sales made in interstate commerce, the purchase of research & development equipment
Property Tax
- Real and personal property tax assessed at 100% of market value · Varying tax rates and exemptions among local jurisdictions
Research and Development Tax Credit
- Also known as Research Expense Tax Credit · Based on increase in Indiana R&D over prior 3-year base · Research expenses in base year must be at lest half of research expenses in current year · Credit amounts to 15% of qualified research expenses on first $1 million of investment · Credit applied against income tax liability and may be carried forward for 10 years · No carryback · Credit non-refundable · Program operates under Department of Revenue · Uses Internal Revenue Code definition of “qualified research expense” (which includes costs of wages and supplies)
Patent Income Exemption
- Taxpayers exempt from certain income derived from qualified utility and plant patents · Qualified taxpayers eligible for an exemption of 50% of patent income for each of first 5 years · Exemption percentage decreases over next 5 years to 10% in 10th year · Total amount of exemptions claimed by taxpayer may not exceed $5 million per year · This benefit available only to companies with 500 or fewer employees
Individual Income Tax
- Indiana personal income tax 3.4% of federal adjusted gross income (with certain exemptions and deductions)
Contact The Alliance - We’ll show you more reasons why you’ll like doing business here.
Major Employers
| Leading Employers In Allen County |
|
Company |
City |
Product/Services |
Employment in FTE |
| Fort Wayne Community Schools |
Fort Wayne |
Elementary and Secondary Schools |
3,765 |
| Lutheran Health Network |
Fort Wayne |
Hospitals |
3,756 |
| General Motors* |
Roanoke |
Motor Vehicle Manufacturing |
3,408 |
| Parkview Health Systems |
Fort Wayne |
Hospitals |
3,210 |
| City of Fort Wayne |
Fort Wayne |
Government |
2,003 |
| ITT Corp. |
Fort Wayne |
Wireless Networking Systems & Satellite Imaging Systems |
1,790 |
| Lincoln Financial Group |
Fort Wayne |
Insurance Carriers |
1,750 |
| Allen County Government |
Fort Wayne |
Government |
1,605 |
| BFGoodrich |
Woodburn |
Rubber Tire Manufacturing |
1,406 |
| East Allen County Schools |
New Haven |
Elementary and Secondary Schools |
1,307 |
| IPFW |
Fort Wayne |
University |
1,250 |
| Raytheon Systems Co |
Fort Wayne |
Mission Solutions for Aerospace Industry |
1,200 |
| Frontier Communications Corp. |
Fort Wayne |
Wired Telecommunications Carriers |
1,200 |
| Navistar International Corp. |
Fort Wayne |
Truck Design & Technology Center |
1,150 |
| Steel Dynamics Inc.1 |
Fort Wayne |
Corporate Headquarters and Scrap Metal Processing |
975 |
| Norfolk Southern Corp2 |
Fort Wayne |
Rail Transportation |
942 |
| Southwest Allen County Schools |
Fort Wayne |
Elementary and Secondary Schools |
915 |
| BAE Systems Platform Solutions |
Fort Wayne |
Aircraft Electronics |
899 |
| Northwest Allen County Schools |
Fort Wayne |
Elementary and Secondary Schools |
840 |
| IN Air National Guard, 122ndFighter Wing |
Fort Wayne |
National Security and International Affairs |
588 |
| Parker Hannifin Corporation |
New Haven |
Metal Product Manufacturing for A/C Systems |
500 |
| AWS |
Fort Wayne |
Services for People with Disabilities |
496 |
| Ivy Tech Community College |
Fort Wayne |
Community College |
496 |
| Fort Wayne Metals Research Products Corp. |
Fort Wayne |
Wire for Medical Devices |
491 |
| Edy's Grand Ice Cream |
Fort Wayne |
Ice Cream and Other Frozen Treats |
486 |
| Indiana Michigan Power |
Fort Wayne |
Electric Utility |
464 |
| Sirva |
Fort Wayne |
Global Relocation & Moving Services |
446 |
| Do it Best Corp. |
Fort Wayne |
Building Material and Supplies Dealers and Headquarters |
445 |
| Easter Seals ARC of Northeast |
Fort Wayne |
Services for People with Disabilities |
423 |
| Dana Corp. |
Fort Wayne |
Plastic Food Packaging |
420 |
| 1-Steel Dynamics Inc. includes SDI Headquarters, OmniSource, and Superior Aluminum Alloys (New Haven). |
| 2-Norfolk Southern Corp. consists of Norfolk Southern, Triple Crown Services Co., and Transworks |
| *General Motors’ employment number is as of June 1, 2010 and will fluctuate as they settle into the new third shift. |
| Leading Employers In Advanced Manufacturing |
|
Company |
City |
Product/Services |
Employment in FTE |
| General Motors* |
Roanoke |
Motor Vehicle Manufacturing |
3,408 |
| ITT Corp. |
Fort Wayne |
Wireless Networking Systems & Satellite Imaging Systems |
1,790 |
| BFGoodrich |
Woodburn |
Rubber Tire Manufacturing |
1,406 |
| Steel Dynamics Inc.1 |
Fort Wayne |
Corporate Headquarters and Scrap Metal Processing |
975 |
| BAE Systems Platform Solutions |
Fort Wayne |
Aircraft Electronics |
899 |
| Parker Hannifin Corporation |
New Haven |
Metal Product Manufacturing for A/C Systems |
500 |
| Fort Wayne Metals Research Products Corp. |
Fort Wayne |
Wire for Medical Devices |
491 |
| Edy's Grand Ice Cream |
Fort Wayne |
Ice Cream and Other Frozen Treats |
486 |
| Dana Corporation |
Fort Wayne |
Motor Vehicle Parts Manufacturing |
420 |
| Vera Bradley |
Fort Wayne |
Handbags, Luggage, and Accessories |
407 |
| C&M Fine Pack |
Fort Wayne |
Plastic Food Packaging |
384 |
| Superior Essex |
Fort Wayne |
Metal Communication Cable and Wire |
377 |
| Mullinix Packages, Inc |
Fort Wayne |
Thermoformed Plastic Packaging |
348 |
| Lincoln Foodservice Products |
Fort Wayne |
Food Service Equipment |
330 |
| Trelleborg Sealing Solutions |
Fort Wayne |
Seals Research & Development and Manufacturing |
323 |
| 1-Steel Dynamics Inc. includes SDI Headquarters, OmniSource, and Superior Aluminum Alloys (New Haven). |
| *General Motors’ employment number is as of June 1, 2010 and will fluctuate as they settle into the new third shift. |
| Leading Employers in Agri-Processing (Food and Non-food) |
|
Company |
City |
Product/Services |
Employment in FTE |
| Edy's Grand Ice Cream |
Fort Wayne |
Ice Cream and Other Frozen Treats |
486 |
| Supervalu-FW Division |
Fort Wayne |
Food Warehousing and Distribution |
400 |
| C&M Fine Pack |
Fort Wayne |
Plastic Food Packaging |
384 |
| Mullinix Packages, Inc. |
Fort Wayne |
Thermoformed Plastic Packaging |
348 |
| Lincoln Foodservice Products |
Fort Wayne |
Food Service Equipment |
330 |
| Heritage Food Service |
Fort Wayne |
Kitchen Equipment and Parts Retailer |
194 |
| Regal Beloit |
Fort Wayne |
Electric Motors |
180 |
| Pyromation |
Fort Wayne |
Temperature Sensors for Food |
158 |
| Pepsi-Cola Bottlers, Inc. |
Fort Wayne |
Soft Drinks |
135 |
| Prairie Farms Dairy |
Fort Wayne |
Milk Producer |
131 |
| International Paper |
Fort Wayne |
Corrugated Packaging Materials for Food |
116 |
| Coca Cola Bottling of Fort Wayne |
Fort Wayne |
Soft Drinks |
111 |
| DeBrand Fine Chocolates |
Fort Wayne |
Gourmet Chocolates |
100* |
| Ellison Bakery |
Fort Wayne |
Bakery |
85 |
| Aunt Millie's Bakeries |
Fort Wayne |
Bakery |
80 |
| Holsum Bakery |
Fort Wayne |
Bakery |
70 |
| Olde York Potato Chips |
Fort Wayne |
Potato Chips |
70 |
| *50 of DeBrand's employees are retail |
| Leading Employers in the Communications & Defense Industry |
|
Company |
City |
Product/Services |
Employment in FTE |
| ITT Corp. |
Fort Wayne |
Wireless Networking Systems & Satellite Imgaging Systems |
1,790 |
| Raytheon Systems Co |
Fort Wayne |
Mission Solutions for Aerospace Industry |
1,200 |
| Frontier Communications Corp. |
Fort Wayne |
Wired Telecommunications Carrier |
1,200 |
| Navistar International Corp. |
Fort Wayne |
Truck Design & Technology Center |
1,150 |
| BAE Systems Platform Solutions |
Fort Wayne |
Aircraft Electronics |
899 |
| IN Air National Guard, 122nd Fighter Wing |
Fort Wayne |
National Security and International Affairs |
588 |
| AT&T |
Fort Wayne |
Wireless Telecommunications Carrier |
373 |
| Stuart Manufacturing |
Fort Wayne |
Electrical Components |
189 |
| Comcast |
Fort Wayne |
Wired Telecommunications Carrier |
174 |
| Riverside Manufacturing |
Fort Wayne |
Electrical Components |
150 |
| General Dynamics C4 Systems |
Fort Wayne |
Communication Networking Programs |
75 |
| Calico Precision Molding |
Fort Wayne |
Molded Rubber Parts Manufacturing |
39 |
| CNC Industries |
Fort Wayne |
Machine Shop |
38 |
| Excellon Technologies |
Fort Wayne |
Sensor Engineering and Manufacturing |
37 |
| HUPP Aerospace/Defense |
New Haven |
Tailored Kitting Distribution |
30 |
| Precision Laser Services |
Fort Wayne |
Custom Machined Parts |
28 |
| Northrop Grumman Corp. |
Fort Wayne |
Sensor Engineering |
26 |
| Leading Employers in Financial Services |
|
Company |
City |
Product/Services |
Employment in FTE |
| Lincoln Financial Group |
Fort Wayne |
Insurance Products |
1,750 |
| Medical Protective Company |
Fort Wayne |
Primary Medical Professional Liability Coverage |
294 |
| K&K Insurance Group, Inc |
Fort Wayne |
Sports, Leisure and Entertainment Insurance |
275 |
| STAR |
Fort Wayne |
Bank |
262 |
| Brotherhood Mutual Insurance Co. |
Fort Wayne |
Insurance Provider to Churches and Related Ministries |
254 |
| Swiss Re |
Fort Wayne |
Reinsurance |
250 |
| Ash Brokerage Corp. |
Fort Wayne |
Insurance Broker |
181 |
| PNC |
Fort Wayne |
Bank |
175 |
| J. P. Morgan Chase |
Fort Wayne |
Bank |
172 |
| Three Rivers Fed. Credit Union |
Fort Wayne |
Credit Union |
165 |
| MidWest America Fed. Credit Union |
Fort Wayne |
Credit Union |
166 |
| Tower Bank |
Fort Wayne |
Bank |
147 |
| Grabill Bank |
Grabill |
Bank |
143 |
| 1st Source Bank |
Fort Wayne |
Bank |
126 |
| Physicians Health Plan |
Fort Wayne |
Medical Insurance |
101 |
| Old National Insurance |
Fort Wayne |
Insurance Carrier |
95 |
| Crowe Horwath LLP |
Fort Wayne |
Accounting and Consulting Firm |
95 |
| Leading Employers in Life & Materials Sciences |
|
Company |
City |
Product/Services |
Employment in FTE |
| Fort Wayne Metals Research |
Fort Wayne |
Wire for Medical Devices |
491 |
| Pyromation |
Fort Wayne |
Temperature Sensors for Medical |
158 |
| Quadrant |
Fort Wayne |
Polymer Materials & Thermaformed Composites |
107 |
| Nemcomed |
Fort Wayne |
Implants and Research & Development |
55 |
| Medical Informatics Engineering |
Fort Wayne |
Personal Health Record Software System |
49 |
| Fort Wayne Mold & Engineering |
Fort Wayne |
Molds for Precision Rubber Products |
42 |
| triPractix |
Fort Wayne |
Electronic Medical Records and Communication |
40 |
| Calico Precision Molding LLC |
Fort Wayne |
Molded Rubber Products; Medical |
39 |
| CNC Industries |
Fort Wayne |
Precision Machining; Medical |
38 |
| Vita Nonwovens |
Fort Wayne |
Nonwoven Fiber for Medical Industry |
25 |
| Maxim Medical Services |
Churubusco |
Surgical Light & Columns Installation & Maintenance |
24 |
| Panoramic |
Fort Wayne |
Dental X-Ray Machines |
20 |
| Production Technology |
Fort Wayne |
X-Ray Machines |
20 |
| Leading Employers in Transportation, Distribution & Logistics |
|
Company |
City |
Product/Services |
Employment in FTE |
| Norfolk Southern Corp1 |
Fort Wayne |
Rail Transportation |
942 |
| Sirva |
Fort Wayne |
Global Relocation & Moving Services |
446 |
| Supervalu-FW Division |
Fort Wayne |
Food Warehousing and Distribution |
400 |
| Sweetwater Sound |
Fort Wayne |
Sound Recording Studio and Equipment Distribution |
367 |
| UPS |
Fort Wayne |
Freight Transportation Arrangement |
345 |
| Specialized Transportation Inc |
Fort Wayne |
Transportation & Logistics Company |
228 |
| Buchanan Hauling and Rigging |
Fort Wayne |
Hauling Company |
100 |
| Brothers Express |
Fort Wayne |
Trucking Company |
99 |
| Allied Automotive Group |
Roanoke |
Trucking Company |
90 |
| Fischer Trucking |
Fort Wayne |
Trucking Company |
89 |
| 1-Norfolk Southern Corp. consists of Norfolk Southern, Triple Crown Services Co., and Transworks |
Updated on: July 23, 2010
Quality of Life
| Fort Wayne MSA Cost of Living |
| Composite |
94.7 |
| Grocery Items |
93.0 |
| Housing |
90.9 |
| Utilities |
91.4 |
| Transportation |
106.6 |
| Healthcare |
93.6 |
| Misc. Goods & Services |
95.6 |
| Source: ACCRA Cost of Living Index, 1st Quarter 2010 | |
 |
| Cost of Living Comparison |
| Louisville |
87.7 |
| Lexington |
91.5 |
| Kalamazoo |
92.7 |
| Columbus, OH |
92.7 |
| Cincinnati |
93.7 |
| Fort Wayne |
94.7 |
| Akron |
99.0 |
| Source: ACCRA Cost of Living Index, 1st Quarter 2010 | |
 |
|
|
| Cost of Living Comparison |
| Nashville-Franklin TN |
88.3 |
| Dallas TX |
90.8 |
| Fort Wayne IN |
94.7 |
| Atlanta GA |
96.2 |
| Denver CO |
102.0 |
| Miami-Dade County FL |
104.7 |
| Chicago IL |
118.3 |
| Seattle WA |
123.3 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach CA |
136.2 |
| New York (Queens) NY |
159.5 |
| New York (Brooklyn) NY |
182.8 |
| New York (Manhattan) NY |
218.0 |
| Source: ACCRA Cost of Living Index, 1st Quarter 2010 | |
|
| 2009 Median Sales Prices for Metro, Existing Single Family Homes |
| Metro |
Price |
| Toledo |
$83,400 |
| Grand Rapids |
$87,400 |
| Akron |
$93,200 |
| Fort Wayne |
$94,000 |
| Indianapolis |
$114,200 |
| Cincinnati |
$125,800 |
| Louisville |
$131,100 |
| Columbus, OH |
$134,900 |
| Lexington |
$141,400 |
| United States |
$172,100 |
| Source: Copyright National Association of Realtors®. Reprinted with permission. | |
The Fort Wayne area also compares favorably with other markets in Coldwell Banker's annual Home Price Comparison Index. HPCI subject homes are based upon a single-family dwelling model with approximately 2,200 sq. ft., 4 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, family room (or equivalent) and 2-car garage. Surveyed homes and neighborhoods are typical for corporate middle-management transferees. In 2009, Coldwell Bank reported that this type of house in the Fort Wayne area would cost $189,750.
| Apartments |
| Type |
Average Monthly Price |
| 3 Bedroom Apartment |
$765 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartment |
$564 |
| Source: Apartment Association of FW. 4thQ2009, conventional mkt only | |
| Average Daily Temperature |
| |
Avg. |
Max |
Min |
| January |
26.6 |
33.9 |
19.4 |
| July |
73.5 |
84.3 |
62.9 |
| Source: Indiana State Climate Office at Purdue Univ. | |
| Weather Conditions |
| Annual Average Rainfall |
65.6 inches |
| Annual Average Snowfall |
47.4 inches |
| Number of Sunny or Partly Sunny Days |
180 |
| Annual Average Wind Speed |
9.95 mph |
| Source: Indiana State Climate Office at Purdue Univ. | |
|
| Entertainment and Leisure |
|
HealthcareLutheran Health Network has three full service hospitals, three specialized hospitals, and RediMed urgent care clinics just in Allen County. Each full service hospital is home to centers that cater to specific needs of the community; these centers specialize in cancer, kidney transplants, sleep health, and burns to name a few. The three specialized hospitals in the Lutheran Health Network are the Lutheran Children’s Hospital, the Rehabilitation Hospital of Fort Wayne, and The Orthopaedic Hospital, a joint venture with Fort Wayne Orthopaedics. Parkview Health Systems in Allen County consists of Parkview Hospital, Parkview Behavioral Health, and a growing Parkview North Campus that is home to Parkview North Hospital, the Women & Children’s Hospital, and the Orthopaedic Hospital at Parkview North, a collaboration with Orthopaedics Northeast . In addition, Parkview has a cancer center, a heart institute, and offers services that range from home and hospice care to workplace wellness programs. Parkview also has a PPO network, Signature Care, which has providers throughout the region. Also serving Allen County are two extended care hospitals, Select Specialty Hospital located inside St. Joseph Hospital (a Lutheran Health Network member) and Progressive Hospital of Fort Wayne. Fort Wayne is also home to a VA hospital that offers medical and surgical services and care, mental health clinics, and a case manager that helps returning veterans cope with civilian life. |
Updated on: May 6, 2010
Financial Services
Fort Wayne and Allen County have a long history with the financial services industry from insurance to general banking.
Several notable companies, including Lincoln Financial Group and Ash Brokerage, were founded in Fort Wayne. With over one hundred years of insurance history and expertise Fort Wayne and Allen County are well-placed for the successful expansion of existing Indiana companies in the financial services industry and exciting growth for new or relocating Indiana companies.
In addition, Medical Protective, Aetna U.S. Healthcare, K & K, Brotherhood Mutual, and Swiss Re all find a place in Fort Wayne and Allen County's financial services industry. These companies benefit from our proximity to major metros, our comprehensive fiber optic infrastructure, compliments of Verizon, and our smart workforce, of which the financial services industry employs over ten-thousand people.
| Major Employers |
|
Lincoln Financial Group |
1,750 |
|
Medical Protective Company |
294 |
|
K&K Insurance Group, Inc |
275 |
|
STAR |
262 |
|
Brotherhood Mutual Insurance Co. |
254 |
|
Swiss Re |
250 |
| Ash Brokerage Corp. |
181 |
| PNC |
175 |
|
J. P. Morgan Chase |
172 |
|
Three Rivers Fed. Credit Union |
165 |
| For a more extensive listing of financial services employers with additional detail, please visit our Major Employers page. |
| Annual Average Wages By Occupation, 2008 |
| |
Allen |
U.S. |
Allen/U.S. |
|
Management |
$90,783 |
$100,310 |
90.5% |
|
Business & Financial Operations |
$55,986 |
$64,720 |
86.5% |
|
Computer & Mathematical |
$65,845 |
$74,500 |
88.4% |
|
Life, Physical, & Social Science |
$48,550 |
$64,280 |
75.5% |
|
Legal |
$71,177 |
$92,270 |
77.1% |
|
Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, and Media |
$36,405 |
$50,670 |
71.8% |
|
Healthcare Practitioner and Technical |
$62,874 |
$67,890 |
92.6% |
|
Building and Grounds Cleaning and Maintenance |
$24,635 |
$24,370 |
100.1% |
|
Sales and Related |
$35,010 |
$36,080 |
97.0% |
|
Office and Administrative Support |
$29,815 |
$32,220 |
92.5% |
| Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, OES and Indiana DWD |
Educational Opportunities
With 10 colleges and universities in Fort Wayne offering business degrees and an enrollment of over 27,000 students, an educated workforce is available and qualified. Annually, more than 1,000 students receive bachelor degrees in accounting, finance or MBAs, with an additional 400 receiving associate degrees or certifications in accounting. Below are just a few of the specialized training available in Allen County to help serve the financial services industry:
-
IVY TECH - IVY Tech has a main campus in Fort Wayne and enrolls more than 7,000 students annually. Business Administration is one of the top five programs at Ivy Tech Fort Wayne.
-
IPFW - IPFW is home to the Richard T. Doermer School of Business and Management Sciences that offers degrees in Accounting & Finance, Economics, and Marketing & Management. In 2007 IPFW established the Institute for Pension Plan Management. The Institute will serve a currently unmet need by supporting local, regional, and national retirement plan and employee benefits providers through education, training, credentialing, research, and technical support.
Indiana is one of only a handful of states with three universities offering insurance and actuarial degrees: Purdue University, Indiana University and Ball State University.
- INSPIRE - Indiana Specific Insurance Related Education covers training costs for insurance recognized training and can be matched up to 50 percent by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.
Board of Directors
Transportation
It’s all about moving people and goods in support of our community.
We offer advice and consultation to promote the safety, efficiency, and economic effectiveness of Allen County’s transportation infrastructure, including our airports and intermodal network.
Specifically, our work is geared to making sure our community has a variety of convenient, cost-effective transportation venues. Moving people and goods in a way that supports and enhances the economic vitality and quality of life here is a priority with us.
Our committee, which is composed of business and community leaders interested in the success of our transportation infrastructure, works with us to create favorable conditions for a logistically friendly region.
Committee Members
Tom Marcuccilli, Committee Chair, STAR Financial Group
Andy Brooks, Brooks Construction
Jim Newton, Triple Crown Services
Tory Richardson, Fort Wayne-Allen County Airport Authority
Joe Ruffolo, Ruffolo Benson, LLC
Greg Leatherman, Division of Community Development
Eric Baker, SIRVA
Terry McDonald, City of New Haven
Paul Lagemann, Compass Governmental Affairs, LLC
Standing Members
Andi Udris, Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance
Randy Borror, Indiana State Legislature
J. Benjamin Campbell, Star Financial Bank
Joni Howell, Greater Fort Wayne Chamber of Commerce
Robert Alderman, Indiana Department of Transportation
Patrick Dooley, Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance
John Leckie, Indiana Department of Transportation
Bill Hartman, Allen County Highway Department
Dan Avery, Northeast Indiana Regional Coordinating Council
Resources
City of Fort Wayne – www.cityoffortwayne.org
Allen County – www.allencounty.us
CitiLink – www.fwcitilink.com
Indiana Department of Transportation – www.in.gov/transportation
Northeast Indiana Regional Coordination Council – www.nircc.com
United States Department of Transportation – www.dot.gov
To learn more about our efforts on behalf of a healthy transportation infrastructure, contact The Alliance.
FAQs
Life & Materials Sciences
Indiana is one of the top four life sciences leaders in the nation!
Indiana was identified as one of the nation's top four life sciences leaders as defined by number and concentration of life sciences-related jobs, according to the report, "Growing the Nation's Bioscience Sector: State Bioscience Initiatives 2006."
Located in northeast Indiana, Fort Wayne is 40 miles from Warsaw, the center of the orthopedics industry in the United States. Our location makes us a great place for a sales, design, or manufacturing center close to your clients.
Fort Wayne has a long and proud manufacturing tradition and is home to several established orthopedic and medical device suppliers, on large and small scales, with plenty of room for other companies in the medical device arena. We are also seeing a growing number of specialized software developers, such as Medical Informatics Engineering, triPractix, and PearlDiver.
| Major Employers |
| Fort Wayne Metals Research |
491 |
| Pyromation |
158 |
| Quadrant |
107 |
| Nemcomed |
55 |
| Medical Informatics Engineering |
49 |
| Fort Wayne Mold & Engineering |
42 |
| triPractix |
40 |
| Calico Precision Molding LLC |
39 |
| CNC Industries |
38 |
| Vita Nonwovens |
25 |
| For additional detail, please visit our Major Employers page. |
| Annual Average Wages By Occupation, 2008 |
| |
Allen |
U.S. |
Allen/U.S. |
|
Engineering Managers |
$101,352 |
$182,300 |
55.6% |
|
Computer Programmers |
$66,701 |
$73,470 |
90.8% |
|
Computer Software Engineers, Applications |
$83,308 |
$87,900 |
94.8% |
|
Computer Software Engineers, Systems Software |
$76,600 |
$94,520 |
81.0% |
|
Computer Support Specialists |
$45,661 |
$46,370 |
98.5% |
|
Computer Support Analysts |
$65,148 |
$78,830 |
82.6% |
|
Industrial Engineers |
$64,794 |
$75,740 |
85.5% |
|
Materials Engineers |
$60,384 |
$84,200 |
71.7% |
|
Mechanical Engineers |
$66,422 |
$78,200 |
84.9% |
|
Engineers- all other |
$62,271 |
$89,080 |
69.9% |
|
Chemists |
$45,699 |
$71,070 |
64.3% |
|
Biological Technicians |
$37,866 |
$40,900 |
92.6% |
|
Life, Physical, and Social Science Technicians- all other |
$35,929 |
$41,230 |
87.1% |
|
Industrial Machinery Mechanics |
$45,387 |
$45,280 |
100.0% |
|
Computer-Controlled Machine Operators |
$34,283 |
$34,520 |
99.3% |
|
Grinding Tool Operators |
$29,198 |
$31,230 |
93.5% |
|
Lathe Operators |
$36,095 |
$34,070 |
105.9% |
|
Machinists |
$33,975 |
$37,490 |
90.6% |
|
Tool & Die Makers |
$47,394 |
$48,180 |
98.4% |
|
Welders |
$31,653 |
$35,370 |
89.5% |
|
Welding Operators |
$34,832 |
$33,700 |
103.4% |
|
Dental Laboratory Technicians |
$34,595 |
$36,990 |
93.5% |
| Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, OES and Indiana DWD |
Links
Taxes & Utilities
State & Local Taxes
For more information on state and local taxes visit the Indiana Department of Revenue.
| Personal Income Tax |
| |
State |
Local Resident (COIT/CEDIT/CAGIT) |
| Earned & Unearned Income |
3.4% |
1.0%-2.1% |
| Source: Indiana Department of Revenue | |
| Sales Tax |
| State Sales Tax |
7% |
| Local Sales Tax |
no |
| County Innkeeper's Tax |
6% |
| Food & Beverage Tax |
1% |
| Source: Indiana Department of Revenue | |
| |
| Property Tax |
| Property taxes in Indiana are administered at the local level with oversight by the Indiana Department of Local Government Finance. Each taxing district has varying credits available for Real Estate and Other Personal Property, as well as varying state and local, homestead credits or additional COIT credits available. For more information about property taxes visit IN.gov. |
| Source: Indiana Department of Revenue | |
| |
| 2009 Property Tax Rates |
| District |
Business Rate |
Homeowner Rate |
| ABOITE |
1.8233 |
1.665038 |
| ADAMS |
1.9698 |
1.755807 |
| ADAMS PTC |
2.0219 |
1.800126 |
| NEW HAVEN ADAMS FWPTC |
2.7564 |
2.436531 |
| CEDAR CREEK |
1.6429 |
1.474496 |
| GRABILL |
2.3785 |
2.081642 |
| EEL RIVER |
2.1475 |
1.976729 |
| JACKSON |
1.6320 |
1.465048 |
| JEFFERSON |
1.6965 |
1.522064 |
| NEW HAVEN JEFFERSON - FWPTC |
2.7338 |
2.417888 |
| LAFAYETTE |
1.9402 |
1.761760 |
| LAKE |
2.1661 |
1.991276 |
| MADISON |
1.7514 |
1.575495 |
| MARION |
1.6653 |
1.496149 |
| MAUMEE |
1.7454 |
1.569588 |
| WOODBURN |
2.3821 |
2.106227 |
| MILAN |
1.6437 |
1.476046 |
| MONROE |
1.6926 |
1.515422 |
| MONROEVILLE |
2.6529 |
2.305686 |
| PERRY |
2.1439 |
1.979176 |
| HUNTERTOWN |
2.4167 |
2.228727 |
| PLEASANT |
1.7618 |
1.570151 |
| PLEASANT PTC |
1.8139 |
1.614496 |
| SCIPIO |
1.6459 |
1.474986 |
| SPRINGFIELD |
1.7174 |
1.547250 |
| ST. JOSEPH |
1.7110 |
1.529997 |
| ST. JOSEPH PTC |
1.7631 |
1.574297 |
| WASHINGTON |
1.7209 |
1.539163 |
| WASHINGTON PTC |
1.7730 |
1.583475 |
| WAYNE |
1.8660 |
1.656172 |
| WAYNE PTC |
1.9181 |
1.700492 |
| FT.WAYNE ADAMS FWCS |
2.8927 |
2.501112 |
| FT. WAYNE-ADAMS EACS |
2.9099 |
2.519031 |
| FT.WAYNE PLEASANT |
2.8661 |
2.479165 |
| FT.WAYNE ST.JOSEPH |
2.8757 |
2.489775 |
| FT.WAYNE WASHINGTON |
2.8601 |
2.474896 |
| FT.WAYNE WAYNE |
2.9703 |
2.565124 |
| FORT WAYNE ABOITE |
3.0545 |
2.679655 |
| FT.WAYNE WAYNE F DIST |
2.7476 |
2.385040 |
| FW-ADAMS PARK NH EACS |
2.8948 |
2.506573 |
| ZANESVILLE |
2.1195 |
1.913275 |
| FT.WAYNE PLEASANT FIRE |
2.6434 |
2.299065 |
| LEO-CEDARVILLE |
1.9638 |
1.744536 |
| NEW HAVEN ST JOE |
2.7222 |
2.407271 |
| EEL RIVER HUNTERTOWN |
2.4203 |
2.226279 |
| FORT WAYNE PERRY |
3.3629 |
2.979849 |
| FORT WAYNE MILAN |
2.8823 |
2.496158 |
| Source: Allen County Auditor | |
Utilities
Below are Allen County's utility providers for electricity, natural gas, and water. Sewer information is available by contacting the Economic Development Alliance at (260) 426-5568.
|
| Sewer Rates |
| Per 100 cu. ft.: |
In City |
Out of City |
| Domestic |
$2.43 |
$3.03 |
| Commercial, Institutional, Governmental |
$2.43 |
$3.03 |
|
| Flat Charge |
|
|
| Domestic |
$27.05 |
$33.81 |
| Commercial, Institutional, Governmental |
$27.05 |
$33.81 | | |
|
Updated on: June 29, 2010
Transportation & Airports
|
Accessibility
Indiana ranks high nationally when it comes to logistics, including 1st in interstates, 2nd in world's largest FedEx air hub, 4th in total freight railroads, and 4th in first class railroads. For all of Indiana's logistics rankings see Inside Indiana Business.
Businesses in Allen County have a one-day drive to more than one-third of the U.S. population and one-fifth of the Canadian population. Our rail lines, which include Norfolk Southern and two CSX short line partners, provide access to the nation. More than 50 trucking companies serve Allen County using major interstates, U.S. highways, and state roads that cross the county. The Fort Wayne International Airport, which hosts an air strip so long that the space shuttle can safely land, provides schedule flights to major Midwestern and Southern cities. Fort Wayne is a little over two hours from the Port of Indiana-Burns Harbor on Lake Michigan and the Port of Toledo on Lake Erie.
For a more extensive drive time map visit our Map Room. |
 |
|
Roadways
More than half of the continental United States is within a 2-day drive of Allen County, and approximately 50 percent of all U.S. markets are within a one-day drive.
59 trucking companies, 22 moving companies, and 7 trucking brokers, including Sirva (Allied) and bimodal Triple Crown serve Allen County and beyond, making good use of the two major interstates, 4 U.S. highways, and 7 state roads that cross the county and easy access to I-80/90 to the north and I-75 to the east. Due to Allen County's access to the U.S. interstates and major state roads, as well as an available workforce, this area is also home to many transportation, distribution, and logistics companies, such as Sweetwater, UPS, STI delivers, Vera Bradley, and many more. |
For a larger version of this map visit our Map Room. |
| |
|
Rail System
Allen County is served by class I freight railroad, Norfolk Southern, and two CSX short line partners, the Chicago, Fort Wayne & Eastern Railroad and the Maumee & Western Railroad. Norfolk Southern and CSX serve over 42,000 miles of track in over 20 states and part of Canada.
Fort Wayne is headquarters to Triple Crown, an affiliate with Norfolk Southern Corporation which provides bimodal, truckload transportation services throughout the eastern two-thirds of the United States and to areas of Canada. |
|
Airlines
Serving over 500,000 passengers in 2009, the Fort Wayne International Airport is currently home to four major carriers: United, Delta, American, and Allegiant Air. There are 37 non-stop departures to Chicago, Atlanta, Dallas/Fort Worth, Tampa, and other major cities. Fort Wayne is also home to Smith Field Airport, a general aviation airport that also offers flight instruction and aviation maintenance technology classes.
Air Business: Air cargo service exceeded 7,000 tons departing from Fort Wayne International in 2009.
Foreign Trade Zone #182 is a general purpose zone on 485 acres. In addition, the Kelly Commerce Aero Centre at FWA is comprised of 110 acres of light industrial space and is part of Indiana's Shovel Ready Program.
Sea Ports
Within a little over 2 hours truck or rail ride, the Port of Indiana-Burns Harbor on Lake Michigan and the Port of Toledo on Lake Erie provide access to the Saint Lawrence Seaway. Both ports have an experienced work force and the facilities needed to deal with all types of bulk, break bulk, project cargo, and containers. |
Updated on: September 16, 2009
Transportation, Distribution and Logistics
Ranking first in total interstates, Indiana is truly the Crossroads of America!
Indiana sits at the heart of the U.S. freight transportation network. It ranks ninth among all states in railroad mileage and ranks 15th in water-borne shipping. With eight different major highways and 11,000 total highway miles, Indiana is accurately referred to as "The Crossroads of America".
Indiana also has three modern aquatic ports on the Ohio River and Lake Michigan. The state's location and transportation options allow companies to easily reach domestic and global markets.
Located near Interstates 69 and 469, Fort Wayne is the transportation hub of northeast Indiana. The city is also in close proximity to U.S. 24, 27, 30, 33 and Indiana 1, 3, 14, 37, 101, 930, 205, making it easy to help move your goods to their final destination.
| Major Employers |
| Norfolk Southern Corp |
942 |
| Sirva |
446 |
| Supervalu-FW Division |
400 |
| Sweetwater Sound |
367 |
| UPS |
345 |
| Specialized Transportation Inc |
228 |
| Buchanan Hauling and Rigging |
100 |
| Fischer Trucking |
99 |
| Allied Automotive Group |
90 |
| Brothers Express |
89 |
| For additional detail, please visit our Major Employers page. |
| Annual Average Wages By Occupation, 2008 |
| |
Allen |
U.S. |
Allen/U.S. |
|
Shipping, Receiving & Traffic Clerks |
$28,173 |
$29,180 |
96.5% |
| Transportation and Material Moving |
$33,045 |
$31,450 |
105.1% |
|
First-Line Supervisors/Managers- Hand |
$38,820 |
$44,380 |
87.5% |
|
First-Line Supervisors/Managers- Motorized |
$49,544 |
$53,960 |
91.8% |
|
Truck Drivers, Heavy & Tractor Trailer |
$40,269 |
$38,720 |
104.0% |
| Truck Drivers, Light or Delivery Services |
$27,897 |
$30,260 |
92.2% |
|
Industrial Truck & Trailer Operators |
$30,930 |
$30,750 |
100.6% |
|
Laborers & Freight, Stock & Material Movers, Hand |
$23,394 |
$24,690 |
94.8% |
|
Machine Feeders & Offbearers |
$23,232 |
$26,800 |
86.7% |
|
Packers & Packagers, Hand |
$21,314 |
$21,100 |
101.0% |
| Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, OES and Indiana DWD |
Major Moves
Indiana remains the only state in the nation with a fully-funded 10-year transportation and infrastructure plan. The northeast Indiana region is scheduled to receive $659,959,927, or approximately 17.5 percent of the Major Moves money.
The major new construction projects include plans for additional lanes on Interstate 69 (north Allen County and at US 20 in Steuben County), and a brand new US 24 that connects Interstate 469 to US 24 at the Ohio state line. The Interstate 469 to US 24 or "Fort to Port" project will meet a brand new US 24 in Ohio creating a four-lane highway that connects Fort Wayne to Toledo and the Toledo-Lucas County Port. Major preservation or resurfacing is also planned for Interstate 469.
Source: Indiana Department of Transportation
Workforce & Employment
| Annual Labor Force |
| |
Allen County |
| 2002 |
176,668 |
| 2003 |
178,124 |
| 2004 |
176,859 |
| 2005 |
178,614 |
| 2006 |
182,227 |
| 2007 |
181,461 |
| 2008 |
181,181 |
| 2009 |
177,722 |
| Source: BLS LAUS Program | |
 |
| Annual Unemployment Rates |
| |
Allen County |
Indiana |
| 2002 |
5.0% |
5.2% |
| 2003 |
5.3% |
5.3% |
| 2004 |
5.2% |
5.3% |
| 2005 |
5.2% |
5.4% |
| 2006 |
4.9% |
5.0% |
| 2007 |
4.7% |
4.6% |
| 2008 |
6.0% |
5.9% |
| 2009 |
10.2% |
10.1% |
| Source: BLS LAUS Program | |
 |
|
|
| Allen County Private Employment by Industry, Preliminary 2009 |
| |
Number Employed |
Percentage |
| Total-Private |
151,915 |
|
| Natural Resources & Mining |
263 |
0.2% |
| Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting |
141 |
0.1% |
| Mining |
122 |
0.1% |
| Construction |
7,967 |
5.2% |
| Manufacturing |
24,474 |
16.1% |
| Trade, Transportation & Utilities |
36,492 |
24.0% |
| Wholesale Trade |
10,018 |
6.6% |
| Retail Trade |
19,215 |
12.6% |
| Transportation & Warehousing |
6,741 |
4.4% |
| Utilities |
518 |
0.3% |
| Information |
3,090 |
2.0% |
| Financial Activities |
9,868 |
6.5% |
| Finance & Insurance |
8,124 |
5.3% |
| Real Estate |
1,744 |
1.1% |
| Professional & Business Services |
17,297 |
11.4% |
| Professional & Technical Services |
6,258 |
4.1% |
| Management of Companies |
1,333 |
0.9% |
| Administrative & Waster Services |
9,706 |
6.4% |
| Education & Health Services |
30,624 |
20.1% |
| Education |
2,935 |
1.9% |
| Health |
27,690 |
18.2% |
| Leisure & Hospitality |
17,094 |
11.2% |
| Arts, Entertainment & Recreation |
2,135 |
1.4% |
| Accommodation & Food Services |
14,959 |
9.8% |
| Other Services |
4,828 |
3.2% |
| Source: BLS QCEW Program | |
| Allen County Private Annual Average Wage By Industry, Preliminary 2009 |
| Industry |
Wage |
| Total-All |
$37,641 |
|
| Total-Private |
$37,353 |
| Natural Resources and Mining |
$36,174 |
| Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting |
$28,300 |
| Mining |
$45,275 |
| Construction |
$44,309 |
| Manufacturing |
$52,992 |
| Trade, Transportation & Utilities |
$32,469 |
| Wholesale Trade |
$44,682 |
| Retail Trade |
$22,287 |
| Transportation & Warehousing |
$40,195 |
| Utilities |
$73,438 |
| Information |
$51,015 |
| Financial Activities |
$49,635 |
| Finance & Insurance |
$53,745 |
| Real Estate |
$30,494 |
| Professional & Business Services |
$36,753 |
| Professional & Technical Services |
$49,726 |
| Management of Companies |
$66,927 |
| Administrative & Waste Services |
$24,243 |
| Education & Health Services |
$39,751 |
| Education |
$27,098 |
| Health |
$41,093 |
| Leisure & Hospitality |
$12,886 |
| Arts, Entertainment & Recreation |
$16,428 |
| Accommodation & Food Services |
$12,381 |
| Other Services |
$23,294 |
| Source: BLS QCEW Program | |
| 2008 Allen County Employment and Annual Average Wage By Occupation |
| Occupation |
Employment |
Wage |
| Total, All Occupations |
190,130 |
$38,765 |
| Management |
7,290 |
$90,783 |
| Business and Financial Operations |
6,640 |
$55,986 |
| Computer and Mathematical |
4,570 |
$65,845 |
| Architecture and Engineering |
3,290 |
$62,292 |
| Life, Physical, and Social Science |
730 |
$48,550 |
| Community and Social Services |
2,880 |
$35,551 |
| Legal |
780 |
$71,177 |
| Education, Training, and Library |
9,920 |
$43,120 |
| Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, and Media |
2,460 |
$36,405 |
| Healthcare Practitioners and Technicians |
12,200 |
$62,874 |
| Healthcare Support |
6,060 |
$24,963 |
| Protective Services |
3,430 |
$33,665 |
| Food Preparation and Serving Related |
17,010 |
$17,914 |
| Building and Grounds Cleaning and Maintenance |
5,560 |
$24,635 |
| Personal Care and Service |
3,770 |
$22,409 |
| Sales and Related |
20,410 |
$35,010 |
| Office and Administrative Support |
29,710 |
$29,815 |
| Farming, Fishing, and Forestry |
NA |
$34,566 |
| Construction and Extraction |
8,230 |
$44,067 |
| Installation, Maintenance, and Repair |
8,250 |
$40,657 |
| Production |
22,350 |
$35,001 |
| Transportation and Material Moving |
14,460 |
$33,045 |
| Source: Indiana DWD | |
|
|
|
| 2008 Commuting Patterns |
| Commute INTO Allen County |
27,375 |
| Commute FROM Allen County |
15,706 |
| Source: STATS Indiana | |
| Commute Times |
| |
Number |
Percent |
| Less than 15 Minutes |
49,228 |
30.69% |
| 15-29 Minutes |
79,347 |
49.47% |
| Over 30 Minutes |
31,829 |
19.84% |
| Median: 15-19 Minutes |
| Source: 2000 Census | |
Updated on: July 13, 2010