(LAGRANGE) – New life will be coming to a LaGrange building.

The LaGrange County Economic Development Corporation is proud to announce the successful closing on the former surgery center located at 2500 North Ventura Way, just north of LaGrange. The acquisition marks the first major milestone in the development of the new LaGrange County Innovation Center, a multi-purpose facility designed to address several pressing community and economic development needs.

The renovated building will serve as a dynamic hub for business, childcare, and community engagement. Plans for the facility include: New office space for both LCEDC and the LaGrange County Chamber of Commerce; Flexible co-working space and additional rental offices for startups, non-profits and businesses; A 60 person community meeting room for public use and events; and A 72 seat licensed childcare center operated by the GO Foundation (Imagination Station).

Sherri Johnston, President and CEO of the LaGrange County Economic Development Corporation says the project has received widespread support and significant investment from local and state partners.

In April, the LaGrange County Commissioners and County Council approved the use of $2.2 million in Major Moves funding to support the initiative. Additional funding includes a $500,000 Lilly Endowment Early Learning Indiana grant, a pending $921,000 READI grant through the State of Indiana, and generous local contributions, including $250,000 from LCEDC, $50,000 from NIPSCO, and $25,000 from the LaGrange County Community Foundation, with more commitments anticipated.

Johnston says The Innovation Center represents a transformational opportunity for LaGrange County. She says this project brings together economic development, early childhood education, and small business support under one roof, all while repurposing an underutilized facility in a strategic location.

Renovations will be managed by JICI Construction (Angola) and Moake Park Group (Fort Wayne), with a focus on maximizing the involvement of LaGrange County-based contractors and trades wherever possible. Pending final funding approvals, construction is anticipated to begin later this year, with the center expected to open in Fall 2026.