Kokomo Alliance Marks 112th Awards Dinner
The Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance honored business leaders and recipients at its first dinner held in the Kokomo Conference Center.
Updated on Nov. 6, 2026 in Economic Indicators
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The Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance held its 112th Annual Celebration and Awards Dinner on Thursday, November 5, 2026, drawing 450 community and business leaders. The event was held for the first time at the Kokomo Conference Center, which opened alongside the adjoining Hilton Garden Inn.
Why it matters
The gathering highlights recent development activity in Kokomo, including the new conference center and business expansions. Recognition of local employers and downtown contributors reflects the Alliance's role in regional economic growth.
The three sporting events supported by the Greater Kokomo Visitors Bureau generated more than $3.1 million in economic impact. Haynes International's capital expansion is expected to create more than 100 new jobs and increase production capacity.
The players
Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance
A regional economic development organization serving Howard County and the Greater Kokomo area in Indiana.
Merrell Bros.
A Kokomo-area company that received the Alliance's Economic Impact Award for its manufacturing expansion.
Haynes International
A specialty alloy manufacturer whose capital expansion in the Kokomo area is expected to add more than 100 jobs.
The details
Awards were presented in multiple categories, including the Economic Impact Award to Merrell Bros., the Downtown Champion Award to Alec Downing, and the Small Business of the Year award to Elsewhen Technology. Merrell Bros.' expansion will more than double its manufacturing and administrative office footprint.
Timeline
Thursday, November 5, 2026: 112th Annual Celebration and Awards Dinner held at the Kokomo Conference Center.
2026: Alliance accomplishments throughout the year, including a record Strawberry Festival.
Market Landscape
The Alliance carried out the conference center project with in-house staff, reducing reliance on outside consulting firms. This approach reflects a model where regional economic development groups take a direct role in building local infrastructure.
Local residents may see new event and hospitality options at the Kokomo Conference Center and Hilton Garden Inn. Job openings tied to the Haynes International expansion could create employment opportunities in the area.
The takeaway
Local business growth and new facilities in Kokomo are being supported by the Alliance's in-house project work and recognition of local employers. Residents interested in community development can follow Alliance announcements for updates on upcoming projects.
Further reading
For related regional coverage, see Economic Indicators in the Kokomo economy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Kokomo Tribune.
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