County 72: Monroe

Bloomington hosted the third in our series of four Advancing Women in Business Seminars this year.  I was greeted by an enthusiastic group of entrepreneurs and community leaders at the Bloomington Country Club. 

I spoke about economic development across the state and the recent investments and jobs that have been committed in Monroe County.  I’m encouraged that even in challenging economic times, there are still individual risk takers out there who are ready and willing to jump in when the opportunity is right.  Companies like Circle-Prosco, Employment Plus and Citigal, just to name a few, are investing, committing to new jobs and helping families climb the economic ladder in and around Bloomington. 

Lt. Gov. Skillman speaks during the
Advancing Women in Business Seminar in Bloomington.

Creating a business-friendly environment has been our first priority in state government.  State government is here to provide a helping hand to the business community wherever we can.  Whether a business is big or small, we want to see it prosper. 

One way state government is reaching out is through certification of Women Owned Business.  That puts women at the top of the list for state government contracts, providing a great way for women business owners to expand their business.  There are a lot of needs, lots of purchases in state government, and we keep track of whom we’re working with as we provide services. 

Right now, 1,530 women-owned businesses are certified with the state.  That is nearly a 20 percent increase over last year, and the highest number in state history.  It couldn’t be easier for others to join the ranks and certify their businesses.  Visit www.in.gov/idoa to learn more.

I’ll be traveling to Kokomo soon to finish this summer’s series.  To register for the final Advancing Women in Business Seminar, in Kokomo, visit www.in.gov/ocra.