Indio: A City of Festivals, Culture, and Economic Momentum  

Known as the “City of Festivals,” Indio is a cultural and entertainment focal point of Greater Palm Springs. Home to world-renowned events like the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival and Stagecoach Festival, Indio draws millions of visitors each year, placing the city on the global stage and fueling a thriving tourism and entertainment economy. Recently recognized as one of the Top 25 Most Livable Small Cities in the U.S. and boasting an impressively low 1.1% unemployment rate, Indio continues to stand out as both a vibrant destination and a dynamic place to live and work.

Where Art, Music, and Momentum Meet

But Indio’s story goes well beyond its marquee festivals. The city’s dynamic cultural scene continues to expand with new venues such as the Center Stage amphitheater and Little Street Music Hall, alongside vibrant public art installations like the colorful Happy Alley. Together, these attractions shape Indio as a year-round destination for creativity, community, and celebration. 

Strategic investment in long-term planning and infrastructure, including the city’s visionary 2040 General Plan and major revitalization efforts along Highway 111 and in Downtown Indio, has positioned the city for significant economic growth. A revitalized downtown is quickly becoming a lively hub for dining, shopping, and entertainment, with standout establishments like Indio Taphouse, Gabino’s Creperie, and Rosemary HiFi drawing both locals and visitors. 

A Smart Choice For Business and Life

Indio also honors its agricultural roots and storied past through institutions like the Coachella Valley History Museum, helping preserve its rich heritage while building a modern, forward-thinking city. New cultural attractions and event spaces continue to diversify its economy and enhance its appeal to residents, entrepreneurs, and investors alike. 

Indio’s Economic Development Department has launched Indio Business Connect (IBC), a suite of free services designed to help local entrepreneurs and business owners thrive. Through partnerships with CSUSB’s Inland Empire Center for Entrepreneurship and Coachella Valley Women’s Business Center, IBC offers:

• A Mini‑MBA program—a six‑week intensive course taught by CSUSB School of Entrepreneurship faculty, covering essential business disciplines with an entrepreneurial focus (began March 12, 2025). 

• The ¡Tú Sí Puedes! / It’s Your Time 12‑week small-business training, available in both Spanish and English, guiding participants through vision‑planning and full business plan creation. 

• Add‑on benefits like one‑on‑one consulting via SBDC, networking events, marketing support, shop‑local campaigns, and a monthly “Indio Impact” newsletter. 

All programs are fully funded by the city and free for Indio-based businesses, reflecting a strong commitment to fostering innovation, diversity, and economic growth.

For more information, contact Indio's Director of Economic Development , Miguel Ramirez-Cornejo