Gigerich: National Clients Talking Indy Tech
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe managing director of Indianapolis-based Ginovus says a recent "explosion" of jobs announcements in the city’s technology sector could pose some challenges to filling incoming positions. Larry Gigerich says growth in the industry is taking hold in companies ranging from small startups to Salesforce, which plans to locate a new regional headquarters in the Chase Tower, rename it and add some 800 workers. He says the economic development research firm’s out-of-state clients are touting the value and talent level of central Indiana. During an interview on Inside INdiana Business Television, Gigerich offered his perspective on what needs to be done to attract and retain the best workers.
He said "as we talk to our IT clients that are based throughout North America, they talk a lot about Indianapolis and the rise of Indianapolis in the last five years. They know the talent is here and at a price point that’s much better than what you see on either coast."
To fill future high-tech openings, Gigerich says Indiana will have to look outside the state. He says focusing on quality of place, creating a welcoming environment and helping to provide access to post-secondary degrees and certifications will boost already strong attraction prospects.
He says Indiana does a good job of offering incentives to offset operating costs, such as a cash-refundable job creation tax credit program. Gigerich adds the state doesn’t do a good job of addressing up-font project costs for businesses looking to locate or expand.
In terms of overall competition within the central U.S. and beyond, Gigerich says Indiana fares very well and matches most closely with Ohio and Tennessee.
Gigerich’s sentiments involving a need for Indiana to attract outside talent echoes a report released last week about a different industry all together: life sciences and health. In an interview with Inside INdiana Business Television, BioCrossroads Chief Executive Officer said the sector his organization focuses on needs to become a "net importer" of talent.