Northern Indiana Anodize (NIA), a startup aluminum anodizing company, plans to invest $6.9 million in its first location in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The planned 47,000 sq ft facility will use 32 ft tanks to accommodate aluminum parts up to 30 ft in length. NIA plans to serve the automotive, construction, boating, and industrial markets in the Midwest region.
“With the economy growing, we’re seeing companies changing from steel parts to aluminum for weight and performance purposes,” said Bruce Fogler, chief financial officer at NIA. “We know there’s a high demand for anodizing providers and a shortage of large-tank anodizing facilities, so we’re starting this company to provide high-quality services in a growing industry.”
The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) offered NIA up to $250,000 in conditional tax credits based on the company’s hiring plans, with additional hiring and training assistance to be provided by Northeast Indiana Works.
“As a state, we’re committed to cultivating an entrepreneurial ecosystem where companies like NIA have the access to capital and the tools they need to launch their businesses,” said Elaine Bedel, president of the IEDC. “We’re excited to witness NIA’s growth in northeast Indiana as they establish their first anodizing facility and create good jobs in the community.”
Construction of the new anodizing facility is slated to begin in August with completion expected in March 2019. It is expected to create up to 48 new jobs by the end of 2021.