March 2025 Alliance Newsletter

Advocacy is a key part of the Chamber’s mission. By fostering meaningful conversations with decision-makers, we work to ensure the voices of our local businesses are heard by those making policies that impact growth, workforce, and economic success.

On March 11, members of the Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance attended Chamber Day at the Statehouse, an annual event that brings chambers from across Indiana together to engage directly with state legislators. The Alliance team had the opportunity to share insights, discuss challenges, and highlight the priorities of our business community.

By participating in Chamber Day, we reinforce our commitment to championing a strong, business-friendly environment — one that supports employers, employees, and the long-term vitality of our region.

We’re excited to share the Alliance’s 2024 Annual Report, highlighting the progress, impact, and key initiatives that shaped our community over the past year. From business growth to downtown development, workforce initiatives, and beyond, this report showcases the strides we’ve made together.

View the full report online here.

Thank you for your continued support in helping us make Kokomo and Howard County a thriving place to live, work, and grow!

On March 12, Alliance CEO & President Lori Dukes was invited to speak as a panelist at IUIndy’s Public-Private-Academia Partnerships in the Midwestern U.S. discussion. The event brought together leaders to explore collaboration opportunities that drive regional economic growth.

She presented on the Alliance's Korean Soft Landing Initiative, a series of programs designed to create a welcoming environment for Korean nationals relocating to Kokomo for the StarPlus Energy EV battery plant.

Through business training sessions and resources like the International Welcome Guide, the initiative helps both local businesses and new residents navigate cultural and professional transitions.

We’re proud to be at the forefront of fostering a more inclusive and business-friendly community!

Learn more about the Alliance initiative here.

The Greater Kokomo Downtown Association has launched a new community engagement platform to help shape downtown’s future.

Residents and businesses are invited to share ideas, recognize successes, and report concerns via a simple online form, accessible through QR codes on contact cards at downtown businesses.

Why does it matter? A vibrant downtown is a key representation of the community, and its vitality is crucial for attracting developers and investors. This platform empowers everyone to play a role in maintaining a thriving city center!

Click here to learn more about this new initiative.

GET INVOLVED IN KOKOMO'S BIGGEST SUMMER TRADITION!

The Strawberry Festival in downtown Kokomo is one of our community’s most beloved events, bringing thousands of people downtown for a day of sweet treats, live entertainment, and local fun.

Looking to be part of the excitement? Opportunities are still available for sponsorships, vendors, and volunteers — but deadlines are approaching fast!

Don’t miss your chance to showcase your business, connect with the community, and be part of this signature event. Click a picture above to find your sweet spot!

First Friday April brings Go Green!

The Greater Kokomo Visitors Bureau took part in the 2025 Indiana Media Marketplace in Indianapolis on Feb. 27, hosted by the Indiana Destination Development Corporation.

At the event, Alliance staff represented Kokomo and Howard County, engaging with state and regional travel writers, bloggers, and journalists to pitch story ideas showcasing our community.

This effort directly supports our goal of attracting more visitors to the area, as earned media — through articles and features — raises awareness of Kokomo's unique attractions and experiences. In fact, one of the travel writers is already scheduled to visit Kokomo this month, further amplifying the community's appeal.

Increased media attention boosts visitor spending, which in turn strengthens our local economy and supports businesses across the region.

The Linked to the Future training series, an initiative of Inventrek Tech Park, continued on March 17 with an insightful session on AI for small businesses, led by Tim Branyan from the Hoosier Heartland Indiana Small Business Development Center. Branyan guided small business owners through practical ways to leverage AI for improving efficiency, from streamlining operations to enhancing customer engagement.

This session was part of a larger series designed to help small business owners navigate common challenges and discover cost-effective solutions to improve their operations. As part of the initiative, these hour-long sessions offer actionable insights from trusted local experts on key topics like cybersecurity, marketing, and financial management, equipping participants with the tools they need to grow and protect their businesses.

Miss the event but still interested in learning about AI? Good news! We have a recording of the presentation! Click here to view it

Ready to take your business to the next level? At Inventrek Technology Park, you’ll find more than just office space — you’ll find a community focused on innovation and growth. As one of only 23 Certified Technology Parks in Indiana, Inventrek is designed to support startups and high-growth companies with the resources and connections they need to succeed.

Here, you’ll get more than four walls and a desk. Gain access to:

✅ The Hoosier Heartland Small Business Development Center for expert guidance

✅ Free conference rooms for meetings that matter

✅ High-speed internet, mailing services, built-in networking and so much more

Spaces are available now!

Don’t just rent an office! Join a thriving hub where businesses grow together.

Learn more or schedule a tour by calling 765-457-2000 or emailing Michelle Reed.

For young professionals, building a strong network isn’t just about exchanging business cards — it’s about making real connections. That’s why the Chamber’s Young Professionals Network hosted Puzzles, Pies & Pints, an annual event that brings people together in a fun, low-pressure way.

On March 13, Sun King Kokomo was buzzing with energy as teams gathered for an evening of friendly competition, great food, and plenty of laughs. The challenge? Complete a puzzle, eat a pizza, and finish a beverage faster than the competition — all while getting to know fellow young professionals and Chamber members along the way.

It was a tight race, but in the end, Margaret Johnson from The Wellness Garden and her team emerged victorious, claiming not only some fantastic prizes but, more importantly, the all-important bragging rights.

Making the event possible were sponsors The 2 Mortgage Guys and Encompass Credit Union. Special thanks also goes to Bruno's Pizza Kokomo for providing the delicious pizza and Sun King Kokomo.

The Greater Kokomo Chamber of Commerce proudly recognizes Brady Insurance Group as the March Small Business of the Month!

Brady Insurance Group has built a reputation for trusted service, personalized insurance solutions, and a commitment to the Kokomo community. Whether protecting homes, vehicles or supporting businesses with customized coverage, their team goes above and beyond to ensure clients have the protection they need.

The Small Business of the Month program recognizes outstanding Chamber businesses that demonstrate dedication, innovation, and an entrepreneurial spirit. Each month’s winner receives special recognition and added marketing exposure to help grow their business. Then, in November, all monthly winners compete for Small Business of the Year at our Annual Awards and Celebration event.

Know a business that deserves to be in the spotlight? Nominations for future Small Business of the Month awards are always open. Click here to nominate a business

Staying informed about legislation that impacts our community and businesses is essential, and that’s why the Greater Kokomo Chamber of Commerce hosts Third House Sessions.

Sponsored by NIPSCO, these forums offer Chamber members and local residents the chance to hear directly from state legislators, ask questions, and discuss key issues being debated in the Indiana General Assembly.

At our March 14 session, we were joined by Rep. Mike Karickhoff, R-House District 30, for an engaging and intimate discussion on pending legislation affecting our region. Rep. Karickhoff took additional time after the session to continue discussions with attendees, reinforcing the importance of open dialogue between lawmakers and constituents.

The Chamber is committed to keeping the community connected to the legislative process, ensuring that local voices are heard on policies shaping our economy and quality of life.

On March 7, the first Coffee & Conversations of 2025 brought together Chamber members, local business leaders, and residents for an engaging discussion with Kokomo Mayor Tyler Moore at Cross America. Over coffee and breakfast treats, attendees had the opportunity to hear firsthand about key updates and initiatives shaping Kokomo’s future.

This event is more than just a casual meet-up; it’s a chance for the community to connect directly with the mayor, ask questions, and gain insight into the city’s direction. Open dialogue between local leadership and the business community is crucial for growth, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that Kokomo remains a great place to live and work.

Don’t miss the next Coffee & Conversations! Join us on Friday, June 13, from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. at Zoe Café (Abundant Life Church, 865 E. 400 South, Kokomo) for another opportunity to engage with Mayor Moore and stay informed about the issues that matter most. Click here for full event details

See all upcoming Greater Kokomo Chamber of Commerce events here

Join us in celebrating our members' milestones!

We will be hosting ribbon-cutting ceremonies for several local businesses in April:

• Back Woods Trading Company: 4-4:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 9 at 102 N. Main St., in downtown Kokomo. Full details here

• Tiptop Car Wash: 10-10:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 16 at 2435 W. Jefferson St., Kokomo. Full details here

• Simple Radiance Medical Spa: 10-10:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 23 at 208 W. Jefferson St. Unit C, Suite 8, Kokomo. Full details here

• Becoming Your Best with Jenny Lytle, RN: 4-4:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 30, in The Shared Drive at Inventrek Tech Park, 700 E. Firmin St., Kokomo. Full details here

Be part of Kokomo's growth! Sponsorship opportunities available! From supporting local businesses and energizing downtown to building strong connections and empowering entrepreneurs, Alliance initiatives shape the future of our community.

And it all starts with you. Your support fuels Kokomo’s success, and now is your chance to get involved in some of the most exciting and influential events of the year. Explore our sponsorship guide to see how you can elevate your business while making a meaningful impact.

View sponsorship opportunities here

Connect with the Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance inside Inventrek Technology Park, 700 E. Firmin St., Kokomo.

Downtown/Chamber: 765-457-5301

Inventrek/Economic Development: 765-457-2000

Visitors Bureau: 765-457-6802

Lori Dukes

President & CEO

Madi Cardenas

Membership Development

Jason Youngman

Facilities Manager

Caitlin Sheets

Economic Development

Misty Knisely

Marketing & Communications

Madeline Sinnamon

Marketing & Communications

Casie Braden

Office Administrator and Inventrek Support