November 2025 Newsletter

513 W Central Avenue

LaGrange, IN 46761

260-499-4994

Sherri has earned the designation of Master Economic Development Practitioner

Congratulations to Sherri!

We are thrilled to celebrate Sherri’s outstanding achievement in successfully completing the Advanced Economic Development Leadership (AEDL) program—a nationally recognized, intensive professional development program presented by The University of New Mexico, Texas Christian University, Valdosta State University, and The University of Southern Mississippi.

The Advanced Economic Development Leadership (AEDL) program is designed to help economic developers reimagine their roles and embrace innovative approaches to today’s challenges. The program provides participants with leading-edge strategies, fresh perspectives, and a powerful professional network that fosters long-term collaboration and success.

AEDL draws on the expertise of experienced faculty, industry practitioners, business leaders, and some of the nation’s foremost site consultants to deliver practical, advanced techniques essential for success in the evolving world of quality job creation.

This dynamic leadership program is jointly presented by The University of Southern Mississippi, Valdosta State University, Texas Christian University, and The University of New Mexico. Designed for mid- to senior-level economic developers, AEDL is an immersive two-week, hands-on course focused on key areas such as leadership, innovation, project management, workforce and education excellence, business development, global challenges, and the use of modern technology and data.

The curriculum, collaboratively developed by all four partner universities, reflects years of planning and commitment to providing one of the most comprehensive and impactful advanced economic development programs available today. Participants learn directly from respected economic development educators, site consultants, subject-matter experts, and university faculty who bring real-world insights and experience to the classroom.

Through this highly respected program, Sherri has demonstrated exceptional dedication to advancing her expertise in community and economic development. With this accomplishment, she has earned the prestigious designation of Master Economic Development Practitioner (MEDP)—a mark of excellence in the field and a testament to her commitment to fostering growth and innovation in our region.

We also wish to extend our heartfelt appreciation to Wabash Valley Power Alliance for their generous scholarship support, which made this valuable learning opportunity possible.

Made in LaGrange

Made in LaGrange - Heartland Mattress

Mission: Building quality mattresses for the residential and RV market

What began as a friendly suggestion has grown into one of LaGrange County’s success stories. When Mervin Lehman of Shipshewana was laid off from his RV company job in 2008, a casual conversation with a neighbor sparked an unexpected new beginning — and the creation of Heartland Mattress.

What started as a one-person operation in Lehman’s garage has since expanded into a 6,000-square-foot manufacturing facility with a small showroom and a dedicated team of five employees. Originally focused on the wholesale furniture market, Heartland Mattress has evolved to also serve the RV industry. Since opening, the company has handcrafted and sold more than 17,000 premium mattresses across the U.S. and Canada, supplying both retail furniture stores and RV manufacturers.

Heartland Mattress operates with a simple yet powerful mission: “Building quality

mattresses for the residential and RV market.” Each product embodies the values at the core of LaGrange County’s Amish community — craftsmanship, integrity, and living within one’s means.

The company also collaborates with other local businesses, including Topeka Mattress, Shipshewana Furniture, and Legacy Furniture, reinforcing the strong culture of partnership and innovation that defines the region.

Like many small manufacturers, Heartland Mattress has faced its share of challenges.

Supply chain disruptions in 2020 and ongoing tariff fluctuations have impacted costs

and material sourcing. Yet, the business continues to adapt and grow, guided by

resilience and a commitment to quality.

Looking ahead, Heartland Mattress plans to expand its product lines and explore new

areas of production, such as foam manufacturing, further increasing its capabilities and reach.

From a single spark of inspiration to a thriving enterprise, Heartland Mattress

exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit, dedication, and craftsmanship that make

LaGrange County a special place to do business.

To learn more about Heartland Mattress, visit their website at HeartlandMattress.net

Shipshewana’s Beloved Holiday Tradition Nominated for National Recognition!

We’re excited to share that Shipshewana’s annual Lighting of Shipshewana Light Parade has been nominated for USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Award for Best Holiday Parade! This cherished event, which kicks off the holiday season in true Shipshewana style, draws visitors from near and far to experience the magic of lights, music, and community spirit.

Now, we need your help to make it number one in the nation! Voting is open now through December 1st, and you can cast your vote once per day. Every vote counts and helps shine a national spotlight on our wonderful community and its holiday traditions.

Let’s come together and show the country what makes Shipshewana so special!

Vote daily and share with friends and family to help Shipshewana’s Light Parade earn the top spot.

Link to vote: https://visitshipshewana.org/know-before-you-go/

Vote Shipshewana for Best Holiday Parade

Monthly Founder's Forum

LCEDC Resources

Apply for the Workplace Preparedness Funds!

The Workplace Preparedness Funds aim to assist recent LaGrange County graduates of a certification, associate's degree, or bachelor's degree to acquire the tools and supplies needed to begin work.

A recent graduate is defined as an individual who has completed a certification or degree in a field related to the areas of study listed below in the last 12 months and has accepted employment in Northeast Indiana.

Areas of Study:

Industrial Technology
Machine Tool Technology
Engineering Technology
Sales
Entrepreneurship-Leadership

For more information, please reach out to Sherri Johnston by phone (260-499-4994) or by email (sjohnston@lagrangecountyedc.com).

NIIC - Entrepreneurship Coach Assistance

Northeast Indiana Innovation Center's (NIIC) Angela Harrison will be at the LaGrange County EDC's office on Tuesday, March 11th and 25th for any individuals who would like to meet with Angela.

Angela can assist any entrepreneur with brainstorming business ideas, how to market their product and other marketing plans, succession planning and so much more! She offers a safe, judgement free space for individuals to share their ideas, ask questions, or assist in finding other resources for their business.

The first THREE sessions are FREE!

For questions or more information, please reach out to Angela at aharrison@niic.net or the LCEDC office.

Indiana Small Business Development Center

Nikki Heffelfinger – Business Advisor – litena01@pfw.edu – 260-481-0495

WORK WITH THE INDIANA SBDC TO SET YOUR BUSINESS UP FOR SUCCESS

Helping Hoosier small businesses at every stage of the entrepreneurial journey The Indiana SBDC offers no-cost business advising, training, referrals, and a library of cultivated tools and resources to help businesses, from startup through sale or retirement, succeed.

2nd Thursday and 3rd Tuesday every month at the LaGrange EDC and Chamber

513 W Central Ave, LaGrange, IN 46761

June Dates: June 12th and June 17th

Schedule a Meeting!

Purdue MEP Supplier Scouting Opportunities

Purdue Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) is the official representative of the MEP National Network in Indiana. Through this network known as the MEP National Network (MEPNN), Purdue MEP is able to leverage the MEPNN's extensive relationships and knowledge of U.S. manufacturing capabilities and capacity to identify manufacturers across the country that can meet supply chain needs of commercial entities and government agencies.

Purdue MEP is able to connect U.S. manufacturers that have relevant production capabilities and capacities with other manufacturers – enabling them to fulfill current market and societal needs. We can then assist those manufacturers in actually delivering needed products.

For a full list of Open Supplier Scouting Opportunities, please visit the link below.

Open Supplier Scouting Opportunities

If you have any questions about the information in this newsletter or would like to learn more, please reach out to the LaGrange County Economic Development Corporation at 260-499-4994 or email Sherri Johnston at sjohnston@lagrangecountyedc.com

Focus Areas & Action Items

Business Retention & Expansion
Building Upon Assets
Business Attraction
Community Development
Sustainability

LaGrange County Economic Development Corporation

513 W Central Ave

LaGrange, IN 46761

(260) 499-4994

www.LaGrangeCountyEDC.com