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Business & Industry
To date, Middlebury’s economy has been largely based on farming and manufacturing. Located within minutes of the I-80/I-90 turnpike connection, Middlebury is an ideal location for any distribution route.
A comprehensive plan for economic development was released in 2020, which took into account infrastructure needs, land use planning and downtown redevelopment while balancing the needs of the large Amish population with that of the broader community.
While maintaining a strong and vibrant manufacturing sector, Middlebury is expanding its public-private partnerships in order to recruit and support three areas of focus: sustainable agriculture and food production, alternative sources of energy and advanced manufacturing automation.
In 2021, the Chamber was awarded a United States Department of Agriculture Grant to incubate rural businesses. The grant provided for the creation of the Middlebury Makers Rural Business Incubator. The effort for a rural business incubator is born out of the need for a unique, specialized, and supportive physical environment and structural and technical assistance to encourage and grow small businesses in the rural context. Five start-up businesses completed the program; three are now opening their small businesses in the Town of Middlebury. Let the Chamber support your vision of being a business owner. The Chamber has affordable space, co-working areas, business 101 workshops, and private business counseling. Also, free access to WIFI, meeting room, shared office equipment, copier, printer, and projector. Contact the Chamber to discuss your business start-up possibilities. Sheri Howland at director@ middleburyinchamber.com or 574-825-4300.
2022 marks six years since the launch of the Vibrant Communities Action Agenda for Elkhart County – a development of the Community Foundation of Elkhart County and the Elkhart County Convention and Visitors Bureau. The Vibrant Communities initiative is an opportunity to strengthen Elkhart County’s great communities. Together, citizens continue efforts to implement community Vibrant Communities Action Agenda items to ensure everyone has a great place to live, work and raise a family.
INTERESTING FACTS ECONOMY
Middlebury’s economy is based on farming, manufacturing, and tourism.
INDUSTRY
This small town with only 3,466 residents (2020 Census Bureau) grows to 12,000 to 15,000 people daily through RV manufacturing, schools, and other industries. It has been said, “When it comes to business, this small town can out manufacture cities twice its size.”
Middlebury Animal Clinic
