With federal spending now accounting for 20% of U.S. Gross Domestic Product, federal research funding and contracts have become a key economic indicator for high-performing regions. In 2005, nearly 1,500 Indiana companies were prime contractors to the U.S. Department of Defense and NASA, with contracts valued at $4.5 billion dollars, contributing to a ranking of 17th among states in attracting federal contract dollars.

These are solid numbers, but we can do better. Conexus and the State of Indiana have partnered on a new initiative to help increase our share of federal defense and homeland security contracts and research grants, beginning with a comprehensive analysis of our strengths, opportunities and areas for improvement; learn more here: http://www.in.gov/energy/defense%20assest%20study.pdf

Building from this study, we’re already seeing new partnerships formed and an increase in successful proposals triggering tens of millions of dollars in additional federal funding – check back under “What’s New” for more information on these successes.

Small to mid-sized companies are major sources of growth and innovation in today’s economy, and the manufacturing and logistics sectors are no exception. Through a new partnership with the Greater Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce, Conexus Indiana is focused on helping these companies succeed, while helping our larger manufacturers streamline their supply chains by finding new suppliers and partners close by.

The Slingshot initiative matches smaller companies with the region’s large corporations to explore potential vendor and strategic partnership opportunities, benefiting both – learn more at http://indychamber.com/slingshot.asp.