Indianapolis is the heartbeat of Indiana’s economy. The Indianapolis metropolitan area is home to over 1,171,700 jobs and boasts a lower unemployment rate than the United States average. Find out what the seven biggest industries in Indianapolis are. Plus, we’ll explore how IT helps them stay productive and secure.
Information technology is not just a support function; it’s the lifeblood of organizations. The right IT solutions ensure seamless operations, robust security, and sustained growth.”
– AJ Watson, VP – Technology and MSP Solutions, Resultant
Top 7 Industries in Indianapolis
There are many ways to judge an industry’s economic impact, including its contribution to GDP, profitability, and workforce participation. This list is based on the number of people employed by that industry, according to the 2024 numbers released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
1. Trade, Transportation and Utilities
Number of people employed: 246,100
Major companies include FedEx, Amazon, and Republic Airways.
This is the largest industry in Indianapolis, reflecting the city’s strategic position as a transportation hub. Indianapolis is often called the “Crossroads of America” due the intersection of so many major interstate highways.
This sector generates significant revenue through the movement of goods and people and benefits from the city’s extensive highway system, Indianapolis International Airport, and the Indiana Rail Road.
IT Impact: Advanced logistics software and automated inventory management systems ensure smooth, efficient services. Cybersecurity measures protect sensitive data like customer information and shipment details.
Compliance with standards such as the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) meets regulations and secures trade operations.
2. Education and Health Services
Number of people employed: 191,000
Education and health services come in at the number two spot in Indianapolis, with major employers including Indiana University Health, Eli Lilly and Company, and Anthem, Inc. This Indianapolis industry not only contributes to public health and education but also drives life sciences innovation and research.
Indiana University Health has the largest network of physicians in the state, significantly contributing to the local economy.
IT Impact: The use of electronic health records (EHR) and telemedicine platforms has revolutionized patient care.
Strict compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is mandatory to ensure the confidentiality and security of patient data. Advanced data analytics help in improving patient outcomes and operational efficiency.
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3. Professional and Business Services
Number of people employed: 184,400
This major industry includes legal services, accounting, engineering, and management consulting. Key players in Indianapolis are Salesforce, Cummins, and Simon Property Group. These businesses support various other industries, driving overall economic growth.
Salesforce’s regional headquarters in Indianapolis is a major hub for the company, employing over 2,300 people.
IT Impact: Cloud computing and data analytics enable companies to store data securely and make informed decisions.
Cybersecurity measures, including encryption and regular audits, are essential to protect sensitive client information and ensure compliance with regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
4. Government
Number of people employed: 146,000
Government jobs in Indianapolis span local, state, and federal levels, providing essential services to the community. This sector includes roles in public administration, education, and public safety.
Major government employers include the State of Indiana, the City of Indianapolis, and the Indianapolis Public Schools system.
IT Impact: Government IT infrastructure includes secure data centers and communication systems. The use of e-governance platforms improves service delivery and transparency.
Cybersecurity is critical to protect against cyber-attacks and ensure the integrity of public data, including compliance with standards like the Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA).
5. Leisure and Hospitality
Number of people employed: 109,800
This sector supports tourism and the local economy, encompassing restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues.
Major players include the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the Indiana Convention Center, and Marriott Hotels. The hospitality industry in Indianapolis also benefits from numerous annual events such as the Indianapolis 500 and Gen Con.
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is the largest sports venue in the world, with a permanent seating capacity of over 235,000, significantly boosting local tourism revenue.
IT Impact: Customer relationship management (CRM) systems and digital marketing tools enhance customer experiences, while online booking systems and mobile apps streamline reservations and services.
Cybersecurity protects payment information and personal data, adhering to standards like the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS).
6. Manufacturing
Number of people employed: 98,100
Manufacturing remains a cornerstone of Indianapolis’ economy, producing goods ranging from automotive parts to pharmaceuticals.Key companies include Allison Transmission, Rolls-Royce North America, and Eli Lilly and Company.
Indiana has one of the highest concentrations of manufacturing jobs in the nation (2.04 times the national average), reflecting the state’s industrial strength and its significant contribution to the state’s gross domestic product.
IT Impact: Automation and robotics enhance production efficiency and quality control. Cybersecurity protects intellectual property and manufacturing processes from cyber threats.
Compliance with standards like ISO/IEC 27001 ensures robust information security management. Advanced manufacturing technologies such as 3D printing and digital twins are increasingly adopted for innovation and efficiency.
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7. Financial Activities
Number of people employed: 74,300
The financial activities sector includes banking, insurance, real estate, and investment firms. Notable companies in Indianapolis are OneAmerica, Simon Property Group, and Duke Realty.
This critical sector supports Indiana’s economic infrastructure by providing essential financial services and investment opportunities.
Simon Property Group, headquartered in Indianapolis, is among the top five largest real estate investment trusts (REITs) in the U.S., managing a diverse portfolio of premier shopping, dining, and entertainment destinations worldwide.
IT Impact: Online banking platforms and financial software improve accessibility and management of financial services.
Rigorous cybersecurity measures, including multi-factor authentication and encryption, protect sensitive financial data. Compliance with regulations such as the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) and the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA) ensures the integrity and security of financial operations.
Top Industries in Indianapolis Rely on Dependable IT Partners
Indianapolis’s diverse and robust industries highlight the city’s economic strength and potential for growth. However, the backbone of all these industries is IT.
The right IT solutions drive productivity, efficiency, and security, making it imperative for businesses to partner with a dedicated IT provider. Particularly as organizations leverage blockchain technologies, expert guidance on security will be paramount, says CloudSecureTech.
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