Indianapolis Business Journal

Our third annual Innovation Issue takes readers to the frontiers of creative thinking and problem solving, although many of the stories boil down to central themes like data and food. “Smart cities” like Indianapolis are using data in new ways to improve government services. Indiana’s quest to become a hub for the so-called “internet of things” requires some expertise with data that zooms back and forth between devices and the internet. And Butler University’s Stephanie Fernhaber is using design thinking to divine solutions to food deserts. Also, check out our master list of innovative ideas that Indiana could borrow from other locales.

In 2006, when Sun Capital Partners bought Marsh Supermarkets, the bet looked risky at best. Scott Olson explains why some experts believe it was doomed from the start. Also in this issue, John Russell sheds light on Eli Lilly and Co.’s choice to lead its lobbying efforts in Washington, D.C. And in Focus, Hayleigh Colombo asks whether Purdue University’s lengthening tuition freeze is affecting the quality of its education.

The Maryland-based company that’s buying two Indianapolis TV stations is renowned for its frugality and conservative politics. Anthony Schoettle explores what that could mean for WTTV-TV Channel 4 and WXIN-TV Channel 59. Also in this week’s issue, Scott Olson outlines an effort to save 16 acres of woodlands along East 86th Street, where a $20 million office-and-retail project is planned. And in Focus, Jared Council explains how bank branches are changing in the era of internet transactions.

Tech companies will be looking to hire thousands of workers in central Indiana over the next several years. Jared Council reports that a shortage of talent to fill those jobs has local companies, education officials and community leaders brainstorming for ways to flood the pipeline. Also in this issue, Anthony Schoettle details the marketing effort to put a youthful face on the 102-year Kiwanis Club. And in A&E Etc., Mike Lopresti previews the big storylines that will play out this month at the Speedway.

Infosys Ltd.’s U.S. expansion plans not only represent a dramatic change in fortunes for the former Indianapolis International Airport terminal. They’re also a radical departure for the company’s business strategy. Anthony Schoettle examines the risks involved. Also in this weeks issue, Susan Orr has the inside story on the twisty negotiations that led to the $558 million sale of Finish Line. And Scott Olson explains how IUPUI is sharpening its identity and the borders of its campus at street level.

Construction on the $135 million second phase of CityWay is expected to begin in early June, further transforming downtown by adding 400 more rentals to the already booming apartment market. Scott Olson gauges demand as several big projects enter the pipeline. Also in this week’s issue, Lindsey Erdody explores how central Indiana has benefitted from the consumer trend of splurging on pets. And in A&E Etc., Mike Lopresti wallows in the misery of Indiana sports fans.

When Dow AgroSciences needed to battle a proposed federal ban on one of its most important products, it drafted an army—its farmers. John Russell reports that it appears they’ve helped the company win the fight. Also in this week’s issue, Scott Olson has a progress report on efforts by University of Indianapolis President Robert Manuel reinvigorate the school’s south-side neighborhood. And in Focus, Lou Harry has details on 20 new attractions across Indiana you can visit this summer.

After decades of heady success and then an aggressive expansion, things started to unravel for HHGregg Inc. Greg Andrews examines what worked during the salad days and how it ended up in the trash heap of failed appliance and electronics retailers. Also in this week’s issue, Anthony Schoettle explores the fate of television news choppers, which have fallen by the wayside after years as fixtures of local TV. And Scott Olson explores the possible backup plan for the owner of beleaguered Marsh Supermarkets: selling individual stores.

Indiana’s largest independent physician group has agreed to be acquired by the nation’s largest health insurer for $184 million. John Russell has the scoop on the latest sign of consolidation sweeping the health care industry. Also in this week’s issue, Lindsey Erdody investigates what was behind the exit of Jonathon Byrd’s from Grand Park Sports Campus. And Jared Council examines Indiana’s persistent shortage of venture capital.

Here's a little-known fact: The city of Indianapolis has an ownership stake in two of downtown's most luxurious hotels and has received nearly $1.2 million so far from one of the investments. What’s the holdup with the other? Scott Olson has the story. Also in this week’s paper, Hayleigh Colombo reveals early results from the On My Way Pre-K program—as legislators argue over funding increases. And in A&E Etc., Mike Lopresti weighs in on IU’s new hire for basketball coach.

Last year, 31 donors gave big gifts to Indiana not-for-profits, totaling $267 million and setting several records for individual groups. Lindsey Erdody takes stock of a banner year in philanthropy and explains how the biggest deals took shape. Also in this week’s issue, Scott Olson reports that Marsh Supermarkets appears poised for retrenchment, based on the number of lawsuits targeting the chain for unpaid rent. And in A&E Etc., dining critic Lou Harry reviews The Nook in Broad Ripple.

Ikea, the 800-pound gorilla of furniture retailing, will swing open its doors in Fishers this fall. But the other players in the market say they’re not worried, Scott Olson reports. Also in this week’s issue, Anthony Schoettle charts the evolution of Butler Blue from has-been mascot to marketing powerhouse. And in A&E Etc., Mike Lopresti reviews the eight greatest games in Indy’s long history of hosting March Madness.<

The Washington Street corridor on downtown’s east side is springing back to life, thanks to high-profile projects like the new Cummins Inc. office building, the apartment boom and city efforts to stoke more development. Scott Olson takes the wide view of the newly fashionable district. Also in this week’s issue, Anthony Schoettle catches up with plans to reinvigorate the 76-year-old Indianapolis Speedrome. And in A&E Etc., Lou Harry reviews a new interactive exhibit on circus skills at the Children’s Museum.

The owner of the mostly vacant AT&T building downtown has scrapped its plans to redevelop the 20-story tower and is putting it on the market without an asking price, Scott Olson reports. Also in this week’s IBJ, Anthony Schoettle explains how changes to the NFL Combine will boost its impact on Indianapolis this year. And in A&E Etc., Mike Lopresti revisits the last true Cinderella story in Indiana’s single-class basketball era: the Delta Eagles’ 1997 championship game against the Bloomington North Cougars.

Supporters of a proposal to raise income taxes to expand mass transit in Indianapolis have at least 11 of the 13 votes they need to implement the hike. Susan Orr polls the pols to get a sense of how the vote will come down. Also in this week’s issue, Scott Olson reports that condo construction, which came to a virtual halt after the housing market crashed during the Great Recession, is making a comeback in the city’s core. And in A&E Etc., Mike Lopresti returns from shadowing the Pacers for several days and still doesn’t know what to do about the team.

IBJ is celebrating the 25th anniversary of its Forty Under 40 feature with a class culled from our most nominees ever. You can see the whole package, including video extras and special insights into the most impactful books and mentors, by clicking here. Also in this week’s issue, Susan Orr explains how federal inaction on a $75 million grant is complicating a City-County Council decision about a tax increase for public transit. And Greg Andrews explains how HHGregg CEO Robert Riesbeck is handling challenges at the struggling retailer.

Lawmakers are advancing a bill that would compel large, online retailers to collect and send sales taxes to the state. Hayleigh Colombo explain how Indiana has jumped into the national debate over sales tax collection. Also in this issue, Anthony Schoettle explains how the IndyEleven’s window for joining major League Soccer might be closing fast. And in A&E Etc., Lou Harry hikes out to The Lit Moose for a meal.