NWI Forum Hosts Annual Meeting & IGNITE Update Featuring U.S. Senator Todd Young

GARY, Ind., February 9, 2026 – The Northwest Indiana Forum convened regional business, civic, and policy leaders for its Annual Meeting & IGNITE Update, highlighting regional progress and the future of economic development in Northwest Indiana. The event featured a fireside chat with U.S. Senator Todd Young focused on long-term national opportunity and the role regions like Northwest Indiana play in shaping the next 10, 20, and 50 years.

As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, Senator Young discussed the Midwest’s growing leadership in advanced manufacturing, defense, and technology, including semiconductors, quantum computing, and supply-chain resilience. Drawing on his work on the CHIPS and SHIPS Acts, he outlined how Northwest Indiana is positioned to benefit from national investments in innovation, security, and competitiveness. The conversation also explored global competition in artificial intelligence, the importance of modern energy infrastructure, and securing domestic access to critical minerals through efforts such as the SECURE Minerals Act and the Strategic Resilience Reserve.

Beyond policy, Senator Young reflected on leadership amid political division, emphasizing collaboration, long-term thinking, and regional leadership as drivers of optimism and progress.

The event also celebrated momentum under the Forum’s IGNITE the Region economic development strategy. Senator Young shared perspectives on Northwest Indiana’s successes and highlighted opportunities where continued federal partnership can support the work ahead.

In her opening remarks, Heather Ennis, President & CEO of the Northwest Indiana Forum, announced updates to the IGNITE strategy, including the formal addition of arts and culture as a core pillar, recognizing the role creative sectors play in economic vitality and community identity. She also acknowledged the election of new Forum Board members and honored a few regional leaders for their trailblazing efforts.

“Our Annual Meeting and IGNITE Update is about more than reflection — it’s about positioning Northwest Indiana for what’s next,” said Heather Ennis, CEO of the Northwest Indiana Forum. “Senator Young’s insights reinforced that this Region is not only part of the national conversation, but an important contributor to the country’s economic and technological future. We have aligned our assets to take advantage of these new opportunities and grow our economy.”

The Annual Meeting reinforced the Forum’s role as a convener of ideas, partnerships, and strategies that advance economic growth and quality of life across the seven-county region.