The Northwest Indiana Forum, with many regional partners, embarked on a regional economic development planning process that crafted a playbook for economic development of our seven-county region.

The goal of this adventure is to have action-oriented, regional initiatives that will attract investment and talent at a more rapid pace.

We engaged TIP Strategies, Inc out of Austin and Seattle to spearhead this process. TIP's primary focus is economic and workforce development strategic planning. In addition, TIP has experience with entrepreneurship, target industry analysis and redevelopment.

The information for this strategic plan was gathered through data analysis and stakeholder meetings. Interviews and discussions were conducted with individuals representing business, municipal government, public service, and economic development in Northwest Indiana.

The consulting team also led over ten focus group discussions involving local representatives of manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, young professionals, higher education, entrepreneurs, environmental, commercial real estate, non-profits, tourism, and regional economic development partners.

We are honored to share the outcome at our luncheon on Thursday, September 13, 2018.