Dow AgroSciences to expand R&D in Indianapolis

Dow AgroSciences, a growing and thriving life sciences company, announces plans for a multi-year expansion of its global headquarters in northwest Indianapolis, with investment of more than $340 million and the addition of more than 550 scientific and commercial jobs over the next five years.  Company executives were joined by Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels and Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard to announce the expansion plans at a news conference.

The first phase in the multi-year expansion plan includes the construction of a 175,000 square foot research and development building, as well as a 14,000 square foot greenhouse on the company’s corporate campus.  These facilities are part of a global growth plan for Dow AgroSciences’ research efforts as it develops and commercializes new product solutions for customers in agricultural and related market segments.  More than 550 new jobs will be added over the next five years at the headquarters location in both scientific and commercial roles.

"Indiana’s excitement and dedication for the life sciences is impressive and matches our own enthusiasm to deliver innovation for our customers as we make a difference in agriculture,” said Antonio Galindez, President and CEO of Dow AgroSciences. “When you combine our infrastructure and capabilities with this positive business environment, it was a winning proposition to expand and grow our global headquarters here in order to accelerate our growth strategy. We especially thank the leaders of the city and state for their support.”

"R&D leadership in the life sciences is a dream of every state in the Union,” said Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels.  “Here in Indiana, it’s not a dream, but a vibrant reality, and Dow AgroSciences’ steady growth is a major reason why.  This expansion makes Indiana a true world capital of agricultural science.”

"Dow AgroSciences has once again proven its commitment to our city. This important new expansion will further enhance our growing life sciences community and provide quality jobs to our residents,” said Mayor Greg Ballard.

In 2009, the company announced numerous plans for expanding its research capacity, including the signing of a 15-year lease on an 80,000 square foot research facility adjacent to its corporate headquarters in Indianapolis and the establishment of a significant research program at the Purdue Research Park in West Lafayette, Ind.  Numerous collaborations and research milestones have also been announced.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) offered Dow AgroSciences up to $12.5 million in performance-based tax credits and $205,000 in training grants based on the company’s job creation plans.  In addition, pending IEDC board approvals, the IEDC will provide the city of Indianapolis with up to $500,000 from its Industrial Development Grant Fund to assist in road, sewer and water improvements needed for the project.  The city of Indianapolis and Indianapolis Economic Development, Inc. will assist the company’s expansion by supporting a request for tax increment financing.

The City of Indianapolis has committed, pending final approvals being granted, to provide Dow AgroSciences with $20 million of property tax increment financing assistance to help defer project costs.  The property tax increment financing dollars to be provided by the City of Indianapolis will come directly from the new property taxes to be paid by Dow AgroSciences as it invests in facilities and equipment on its Indianapolis campus.  The companys capital investment and job creation plans are contingent upon the approval of the local and state incentives.

People interested in career opportunities with Dow AgroSciences should visit http://www.dowagro.com/careers/ for job postings over the coming months.