Pike County awarded grant for technology center

PIKE COUNTY -- The Entrepreneurship and Technology Center of Pike County has been awarded a grant for $787,500 from the Economic Development Administration in Public Works and Assistance to Coal Communities programs. With plans to offer co-working space, maker space with prototyping capabilities and the ability to do small-scale mass production, along with a training center that will cater to workforce development needs for existing businesses large and small, the Entrepreneurship and Technology Center of Pike County will be the ultimate resource for start-up businesses.

Pike County's economy has largely been comprised of local small business owners, whose entrepreneurial spirit and determination over time have led to employment and capital investment in our community. Much like the small business owner nurtures its concept, this endeavor has been in the works for over seven years, with Pike County Progress Partners and many young entrepreneurs that have developed start-up business leading the charge. The hard work and persistence by this project team will lead to a community asset that both fosters entrepreneurs and supports regional workforce needs. There have been many partners that have strongly supported the Entrepreneurship and Technology Center that should be recognized. Those partners include Elmer Buchta Jr., Pike County Community Foundation, German American Banking Insurance and Investments, Toyota, WIN Energy, Hoosier Energy, Doyle Family, Jasper Engines and Transmissions, Ohio Valley Gas Corporation, Gray Farms, Pike County Progress Partners and Pike County Economic Development Corporation.

"After many years of working on this project, I am elated the EDA is willing to partner with us on this project and I look forward to construction commencement," said Joe Dedman, president of German American Insurance. The facility will be visibly positioned as the front door into Pike County, sitting on the southwest quadrant of the I-69 interchange with a clear message that Pike County is preparing new and existing businesses to be innovative, armed with cutting-edge technology and the resources in place to help businesses thrive in southwest Indiana.

The I-69 corridor has provided many opportunities for the next chapter of Pike County's economic development efforts. Pike County is proud the Entrepreneurship and Technology Center will be the first building constructed at the Petersburg interchange, particularly due to its commitment to assist in job retention, crating new career pathways, and serving as a resource to workforce development needs for future generations. "The Center represents an excellent opportunity for current and future residents to hone their skills and to position Pike County to make a sizable contribution to the global economy," said Cindy Gaskins, director for the Pike County Community Foundation. "The Foundation is thrilled to play a role in this new and promising venture for our community."

Pike County has a bright future ahead with the Entrepreneurship and Technology Center acting as a focal point for county economic development, focusing on helping incubate new business ventures and providing real-world advice from fellow experts. Elmer Buchta Jr. said, "I am very encouraged that we are going to be able to pass the torch to a new generation of entrepreneurs. Once complete, this facility will provide the required tools for fostering new businesses in Pike County. Both Elmer Sr. and Myrtle Buchta would be proud to be a part of this, who were the inspiration for this project."