Warren County Economic Development

06/01/2026

On May 20th Warren County Economic Director Heather Deno along with County Commissioner John Comer and other regional leaders (Greater Lafayette Commerce, White and Carroll County) had the opportunity to meet with Senator Jim Banks in Washington, D.C. to discuss the opportunities, challenges, and priorities that matter most to Warren County and the region.

Economic development doesn't just happen within county lines. Many of the programs, funding opportunities, infrastructure investments, workforce initiatives, and business resources that impact our communities begin with conversations at the state and federal level. That's why it's important for Warren County to have a seat at the table and a voice in those discussions.
Our role is to advocate for Warren County's businesses, communities, workforce, farmers, and future growth. By building relationships with our elected officials and sharing the unique needs and opportunities of our county, we help ensure that Warren County is represented when decisions are being made that affect our residents.

We're grateful for the opportunity to meet with Senator Banks and his team and look forward to continuing to work together to advance projects and opportunities that support economic growth and improve quality of life throughout Warren County.

Strong communities are built through strong partnerships—and we're proud to represent Warren County wherever those conversations take place.
When Warren County has a voice in the room, our businesses, communities, and residents have a better opportunity to succeed

Great to meet with Greater Lafayette Commerce this week in my D.C office 🇺🇸

05/29/2026

Are you looking to make a positive impact in Warren County? Next Tuesday June 2nd the Indiana Municipal Power Agency is hosting a free all-day workshop to help you generate ideas and make a difference. Transportation and meals are provided free of charge - contact us now for more information! We would love to send our director Heather Deno on a road trip filled with Warren County change makers! Indiana Municipal Power Agency

05/27/2026

THRIVEX Solutions: a vending concept changing how we think about quick meals. Using smart-camera technology, these machines let you tap your card, grab what you need, and walk away. No waiting, no complications.

It’s about so much more than technology. THRIVEX is providing fresh, dignified food access to areas that need it most. Today, we visited the Ascension St. Vincent Williamsport Hospital location, where local owner Kelly Laffoon has machines set up throughout the lobby and hallways.

05/27/2026

Say hello to THRIVEX Solutions, a vending concept changing how we think about quick meals. Using smart-camera technology, these machines let you tap your card, grab what you need, and walk away. No waiting, no complications.

But it’s about so much more than the technology.

THRIVEX is providing fresh, dignified food access to areas that need it most. Today, we visited the Ascension St. Vincent Williamsport Hospital location, where local owner Kelly Laffoon has machines set up throughout the lobby and hallways.

Kelly is running a true Warren County business, partnering with the Carbondale Tavern to stock these machines with fresh, local food! You can also find her machines at:
📍 Hanging Rock Christian Camp
📍 The Waters in Covington
📍 Ascension St. Vincent Joshua Max Simon Primary Care & More

Coming soon! THRIVEX will be introducing an app that allows you to scan a QR code right at the machine to unlock deals on items and bundles!

This isn't just a vending machine, it’s a vital community resource. Kelly is proving that innovative business can also be a force for good. Check them out next time you're nearby!

05/20/2026

Commissioner John Comer, Councilman Ben Dispennett and Economic Director Heather Deno met with Senator Young in Washington DC yesterday as part of the Greater Lafayette Commerce trip to discuss workforce development, infrastructure and other critical needs Warren County and surrounding communities are facing.

05/15/2026

Our office has been awarded two grants totaling $10,000 by the Wabash Valley Power Alliance to conduct a business feasibility study. The study aims to identify the needs and challenges of local businesses and develop a comprehensive countywide business directory. Recognizing the needs of our businesses is essential to delivering superior support. In celebration, Zyan Miller, Economic Development Relations Specialist, invited Heather Deno, our executive director, to participate in Fast Friday at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway where she networked with prominent economic development professionals from across the state, thereby increasing Warren County's visibility. Thank you WVPA!!

05/12/2026

What is the connection between Matchbox and economic development in Warren County? Everything! Gaining insight into Equate Ventures' investments and Lafayette's entrepreneurial initiatives is vital for attracting talent and opportunities. Networking, forming partnerships and learning what is happening around us is how we grow 💪🏼

If you haven’t heard about MatchBOX check it out - fantastic way Lafayette is supporting business development!

05/12/2026

Our office proudly supports workforce development initiatives at Warren County Learning Center by funding training programs such as CDL driving, construction, and welding, equipping Warren County residents with the skills necessary for our businesses to thrive and expand. We met with the Learning Center Director Lisa Cruea last week to present a check and look forward to attending graduation in August!

05/07/2026

The Hoosier Heartland Indiana Small Business Development Center offers great programming for small businesses in our area. Take advantage of these free classes!

05/07/2026

Attention Veteran and rural owned Ag businesses in Warren County - check out this opportunity! ✨

Next Acre is a program designed to help veteran and rural-owned agricultural businesses strengthen and expand their direct-to-consumer sales. Facilitated by At Ease Orchard, the program provides practical training and technical assistance to help farmers build stronger businesses, reach new customers, and grow their market presence.

Through the Next Acre program, participating producers will receive support in developing strategic growth plans tailored to their farm businesses, products, and market opportunities. Training and mentorship will focus on key areas that help farms succeed in today’s marketplace, including:
✅ Brand development and farm storytelling
✅ Pricing strategies and value-added products
✅ Understanding customers and market segmentation
✅ Expanding direct-to-consumer sales channels
✅ Identifying new market opportunities

Next Acre is designed for farmers who are ready to take the next step in building sustainable, profitable agricultural enterprises. Whether selling at farmers markets, operating a farm store, developing value-added products, or expanding into new direct-to-consumer markets, this program will help participants refine their strategy and grow with confidence.

Reach out at the link below for more info.

https://www.ateaseorchard.org/Next-Acre/?utm_source=hat+e-news&utm_campaign=1fa525b8a4-HAT_E_newletter_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_e04b171fca-1fa525b8a4-574980092

At Ease Orchard empowers military veterans and their caregivers by reconnecting them with the land and each other. Through hands-on training, practical resources, and a strong support system, we help veterans turn the work of farming into a pathway for healing, resilience, and renewed purpose.