For many farmers, the phrase “economic development” can evoke concern, often perceived as a potential disruption to traditional ways of life. However, in Indiana, rural economic growth is increasingly seen as a vital partner to agricultural sustainability rather than a threat. As a member of the Indiana Economic Development Board, Don Lamb emphasizes the importance of integrating agriculture into broader economic strategies. Under Governor Mike Braun’s leadership, efforts are expanding beyond attracting large-scale external businesses to supporting existing local enterprises, ensuring prosperity reaches every region of the state. n nPast initiatives by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) have already shown tangible benefits—such as Sustainea’s investment in corn processing at Primient in Lafayette, which could increase daily corn demand by 42,000 bushels. These outcomes demonstrate how strategic economic planning can directly benefit farming communities without requiring massive capital projects or job creation. n nAgriculture remains central to Indiana’s economy, and its inclusion in development discussions ensures future generations can thrive in their hometowns. Strong rural economies support better healthcare, childcare, and community vitality. With advancing technology, new opportunities are emerging for young people to engage in next-generation food production and agribusiness. n nEntrepreneurship will be key to driving this evolution, and access to resources and support systems must be streamlined. Tools used to attract manufacturing can be adapted to strengthen agricultural value chains—enabling localized production, processing, and packaging. n nLamb stresses the importance of farmer engagement with local officials and economic development teams. Thoughtful planning and local control can preserve agricultural heritage while fostering innovation. By staying involved, farm families help ensure their communities remain vibrant and resilient for years to come.
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OpEd: Rural Economic Development Creates Opportunities for Indiana Agriculture
INDIANAPOLIS — When you’re a farmer and you hear the words, “economic development,” it tends to bring mixed reactions. To those of us that love the land, it can seem like a threat to our very livelihood. Rural economic development though, is something we all need to take seriously. n nWhile it can feel like a threat, it can also be the key to that same livelihood we want to protect. That’s why when Gov. Mike Braun asked me if I would be part of the Indiana Economic Development Board, I didn’t have to think long – absolutely. Connecting agriculture to economic development in Indiana has been a constant priority of our State Department of Agriculture. n nIn the previous administration, the IEDC was focused on incentivizing new business to come to our state. This is not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, Sustainea is one such company that will add value to corn products that are processed at Primient in Lafayette. This may add 42,000 bushels of corn demand per day, and it wouldn’t have happened without a strong pitch from the IEDC. n nAgricultural economic development does not always need to be hundreds of millions of capital expenditure, or hundreds of new jobs to make a huge difference in a rural community. Gov. Braun has a different focus and has committed to see economic development reach the four corners of the state and everywhere in between. n nOne pillar of his plan is to help the businesses that are already in Indiana to continue to succeed. This is good for Indiana agriculture. n nWhy is it important for agriculture to have a seat at the table of economic development? Our rural economy will impact whether our children and grandchildren have opportunities to spend their lives where they grew up. The rural economy will dictate what our healthcare and childcare systems look like. n nThe rural economy will determine the quality of life that is available because there is a vibrant community with social and recreational opportunities. Agriculture has always been the backbone of the Indiana economy. As technology advances, there will be more opportunities for young people to get excited about producing the next generation of food products. n nAgricultural economic development will be fueled by entrepreneurship, and the drivers of this economy need a clear path to success. The tools that have been used to bring new manufacturing business to Indiana can be used to provide opportunities for agriculture and rural communities. n nI love rural Indiana. There is no better place to raise a family. That’s why we can’t afford to look at economic development only as a threat to our livelihood. Preserving our land and our agricultural heritage can go hand in hand with economic development. n nLocal control and good planning can provide a foundation for the next generation, both on and off the farm. There will be opportunities to bring production, processing, or packaging of a certain farm product to a certain region of the state. n nMy opinion? Stay engaged with local officials. Stay engaged with local economic development teams. Your communities are better places to live because of the farmers and farm families that live there.