Governor Braun underscores Indiana’s commitment to entrepreneurship during ETA Conference at Butler University

Thursday, March 12, 2026 at 5:00 PM

Indiana Governor Mike Braun participated in the state’s first‑ever Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) Conference on Monday at Butler University, highlighting Indiana’s focus on preserving locally owned businesses and supporting the next generation of Hoosier entrepreneurs.

The conference brought together entrepreneurs, investors, business owners and advisors from across the state to explore ETA as a strategy for sustaining Main Street Hoosier businesses, retaining jobs and strengthening community stability.

Drawing on his own experience, Gov. Braun emphasized the importance of stepping into existing companies and carrying them forward.

“Entrepreneurship isn’t just about starting something new. It’s also about stepping in, taking responsibility and growing what already exists,” said Gov. Braun. “Indiana has thousands of strong businesses facing ownership transitions, and we need to make sure the next chapter keeps them rooted right here.”

The Governor highlighted ETA as a key tool for addressing the wave of retiring business owners across Indiana and ensuring that locally owned companies remain locally controlled. He also underscored the state’s efforts to support both new and existing entrepreneurs through the Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation (OEI), established by Gov. Braun in 2025, to strengthen Indiana’s entrepreneurship ecosystem.

“Indiana is open for business — not just for startups, but for new stewards of great companies,” Gov. Braun said. “ETA is one of the highest‑impact ways to build wealth, create opportunity and strengthen Hoosier communities.”

The conference featured keynote remarks, panel discussions and practical sessions on acquisition financing, seller readiness, employee ownership pathways and the role of ETA in regional economic development.

More information about the conference is available at etaindy.com.