Elanco Acquires Former GM Stamping Plant Site to Build Innovation District in Indianapolis
Governor Mike Braun has announced the sale of state-owned land at the former GM Stamping Plant site to Elanco Animal Health for $27 million, marking a major step toward the development of an innovation district in downtown Indianapolis.
The agreement transitions the 93-acre property into private ownership, while the State of Indiana remains an active partner in shaping its future through the Indiana Office of Commerce.
“This agreement is a responsible step forward,” Governor Braun said. “It puts this property in the hands of a company with a clear vision of a world-class innovation district, while ensuring the State of Indiana remains a full partner. This is about more than redeveloping land—it’s about creating jobs, attracting talent, and driving long-term growth for Indiana.”
A Hub for Research, Jobs, and One Health Innovation
Anchored by Elanco’s new global headquarters, the site will become a destination for innovation, intentionally connecting:
Research institutes
Pilot-scale facilities
Diagnostic labs
Animal clinical care
The district will also integrate office space, housing, retail, and green space, creating a vibrant community that attracts top talent and global investment.
Jeff Simmons, CEO of Elanco Animal Health, emphasized the partnership-driven approach:
“This is about partnership and progress. The State’s willingness to work with us—not as a landowner but as a partner—makes this possible. Securing this property gives us the certainty to move forward with speed. That means jobs, investment, and an accelerated path to creating an innovation district dedicated to One Health. In the near-term, we’re excited to join the Valley Neighborhood with our move to our new global headquarters in early October. This is just the first of many big moments.”
Purdue Joins the Vision
Purdue University will also play a key role, leveraging its expertise in animal, plant, and human health to strengthen the district’s One Health mission.
“Purdue is excited to partner in the Elanco headquarters campus,” said Mung Chiang, President of Purdue University. “This step will accelerate Purdue’s growth in Indianapolis and create One Health jobs and workforce opportunities for the State of Indiana.”
Long-Term Impact
The State of Indiana will continue to collaborate as the project moves forward, ensuring the development fulfills its potential as a global center for innovation.
Elanco plans to officially move its global headquarters to the site in October, marking the start of what state leaders call a transformative project for Indiana’s economy and workforce.
