HEDC Named Finalist for Chamber's Economic Impact Award

Hancock County Chamber of Commerce to celebrate 75 years of supporting local businesses at Nov. 14 awards dinner

The Hancock Economic Development Council has been named a finalist for the Economic Impact Award as the Hancock County Chamber of Commerce prepares to celebrate its 75th Annual Meeting & Awards Dinner on Saturday, Nov. 14.

The award recognizes organizations and initiatives that have made meaningful contributions to Hancock County's economic strength, growth and vitality. HEDC joins fellow finalists Hancock Health and HealthStar Partners in the category.

The recognition comes as HEDC continues its work to attract investment, support existing businesses and strengthen opportunities for economic growth throughout Hancock County.

During Executive Director Randy Sorrell's tenure, HEDC has helped facilitate the development of more than 30 industrial buildings totaling over 18 million square feet and more than $900 million in assessed value. The organization has also advanced initiatives focused on workforce development, innovation and long-term economic competitiveness.

Sorrell, who will retire at the end of 2026, is listed as HEDC's representative among the award finalists.

Celebrating 75 years of business and community

HEDC's recognition is part of a broader celebration of the businesses, organizations and individuals helping shape Hancock County's future.

Founded in 1951, the Hancock County Chamber of Commerce is celebrating its 75th anniversary with the theme "Deep Roots. Accelerated Future." The theme reflects the county's evolution from a predominantly agricultural community to one of Indiana's fastest-growing counties, while recognizing the people and institutions preserving its character.

"Seventy-five years ago, local business leaders built this Chamber on a simple premise: when business, government and education invest together, the whole county competes better," said Chamber Board Chairman Andy Isch, General Manager of Bradford Builders. "This year's finalists are that premise at work. They are expanding operations, developing talent and bringing new investment to Hancock County. Their results are a big reason companies are choosing to grow here."

The Chamber will recognize finalists in nine award categories, including Business of the Year, Leadership Legacy, Businesswoman and Businessman of the Year, Economic Impact, Spirit of Small Business, Excellence in Public Service, Excellence in Education and Young Professional of the Year.

A Distinguished Public/Private Partnership Award will also be presented.

Winners will be announced during the event at the Amplify Hancock Innovation Center.

An evening recognizing Hancock County's future

Former Indiana Secretary of Commerce and Indiana Economic Development Corporation President Jim Schellinger will deliver the evening's keynote address, drawing on his experience in economic development and Indiana's efforts to attract business investment.

The event will be hosted by longtime WIBC radio personality Terri Stacy, a Knightstown native and member of the Indiana Broadcast Pioneers Hall of Fame.

Doors open at 5:45 p.m., followed by a networking reception at 6 p.m. A buffet dinner catered by Foxgardin begins at 6:30 p.m., with the keynote address and awards presentation scheduled for 7:30 p.m.

The evening will conclude at 9 p.m. with a special Golden Ticket raffle commemorating the Chamber's anniversary.

The event is open to Chamber members and the public, with seating limited to approximately 150 guests.

Tickets are $90 per person or $700 for a table of eight. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

For event information and ticket availability, visit onecau.se/hccc. 

Check out this blog post for more information about the Chamber's awards and finalists.