The Northwest Indiana Forum is currently leading an update of Ignite the Region: A Regional Strategy for Economic Transformation.

To gather as many insights and opinions as possible on what the Region needs, the forum has published a survey that takes about 5 minutes to complete.

The 2025 update is focused on integrating arts, culture, tourism and sustainability into the existing economic transformation strategy. The economic development plan is for the seven-county region, which includes Lake, Porter, LaPorte, Newton, Jasper, Pulaski and Starke counties.

The effort is supported by the State of Indiana’s Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI) program. It is guided by Public Sphere Projects, a national planning and placemaking consultancy.

The Northwest Indiana Forum invites residents to share their thoughts and help shape the future of Northwest Indiana. It is asking community members to participate in a short survey focused on arts and culture in Northwest Indiana. The community input will help the updated strategy reflect the needs and aspirations of the Region’s diverse communities.

Learn more here.