Marshall County economy shows strong growth in mid-year review as jobs and wages climb

The Marshall County Economic Development Corporation released its mid-year review Monday, and the numbers tell a story of remarkable economic momentum across the county. Executive Director Greg Hildebrand shared details of the report, highlighting continued growth in business development, workforce initiatives, and entrepreneurial opportunities through the first half of 2026.

The data is striking. Compared to 2024, Marshall County has seen a more than 29% increase in jobs, with annual wages rising by nearly 30% over the same period. The labor force has grown by just over 7%, and the number of employed county residents has increased by almost 8% — all while the county's population grew by only 1.1%.

Hildebrand said Marshall County continues to demonstrate economic strength. "Our unemployment rate remains at just 3%, below both the state and national averages, while employment and labor force participation continue to grow," he said. "Since 2019, the county has added more than 4,000 jobs, and average annual wages have increased by nearly 30% while inflation increased 26%, creating more opportunities for families to strengthen our local economy."

So far this year, MCEDC has supported 7 business attraction projects, 10 business expansions, 2 workforce initiatives, and 5 site development projects. Hildebrand noted that 2026 has also been a record year for private capital investment, with $219 million being invested into the local economy.

MCEDC is a nonprofit organization established under special nonprofit status designated for business advocacy efforts. Every project, partnership, and program at MCEDC begins with one goal: creating opportunities that strengthen Marshall County's economy. The organization completes its work through funding from a variety of sources, including community service agreements, private donations, and grants.

Marshall County Economic Development maintains community service agreements with each of the communities in the county as well as the county itself. These agreements involve promoting property for development and working with the Indiana Economic Development Corporation to develop incentive packages for new and expanding industry. In exchange, each community and the county contribute to help fund MCEDC's operations.

Private donations from industry and local service providers provide another critical source of funding, helping the local economy expand and grow for the benefit of residents and companies located in Marshall County. This support allows MCEDC to attract talent to the area, improve quality of place, increase housing options, and support workforce development.

In 2025, MCEDC applied for and received two grants. The first was a site development grant through an electric utility for an engineering study to expand city utilities to industrial zone property for future development. The second was a state grant to develop a program designed to help entrepreneurs and small business owners build their business acumen.

"Every partnership and investment helps create a stronger local economy, one that benefits businesses, residents, and future generations," Hildebrand said.