In his first State of the State, Holcomb comes out big on jobs and economy message.
In his first State of the State address, Gov. Eric Holcomb hailed the role small businesses play in Indiana’s economy and laid out a plan to take the state to the “next level” as it enters its third Century.
Holcomb, speaking of his efforts to woo major global companies to the Hoosier state, said “the heart and soul of our economy is still small business.”
“[W]hat will it take to make Indiana even more of a jobs magnet?” Holcomb said. “A bedrock is to continue to manage our finances with the discipline we’ve shown over the past 12 years. That means passing another honestly balanced budget and maintaining the Rainy Day Funds at a prudent level with no gimmicks, spending less than we take in, and protecting our future. That’s why I support a balanced budget amendment! This sets us apart from many other states, keeps us in a good position to withstand a future economic downturn, and encourages businesses to locate and stay in Indiana.”
But there was more for entrepreneurs to like. Holcomb proposed “$1 billion over the next 10 years to make Indiana the capital of innovation and entrepreneurship,” drawing on monies from the Next Level Indiana Fund, the 21st Century Fund and a grant program.
Holcomb also touted his five pillars: cultivate a strong and diverse economy to ensure that Indiana remains a magnet for jobs; fund a long-term roads and bridges plan; develop a skilled workforce; attack the state’s drug epidemic and provide great government service at a great value to taxpayers.
As we lead Indiana into our third century, even as we sustain those many things we’re doing well, let’s not be afraid to think big, be bold, and act with courage.
Read the full speech here.
