Hard work does pay off. And this issue is proof that the Region's business community is committed to helping all companies and organizations succeed. Many business leaders and experts, and their employees, took time out to vote for their favorite vendors, companies and support organizations in our 2024 Best of Business survey. So many in fact that we had more votes than last year. Thank you for voting!

The results of our 19th annual survey feature some new companies and past winners readers always count on. We are happy to announce them in this issue.

Besides congratulating our award winners, this issue also features stories that show the Region's dedication to creating opportunities for economic development and career success.

Our law story focuses on several recent graduates who have landed in the Region to start their careers. Companies also are making special efforts to recruit and retain the next generation of lawyers.

Northwest and North Central Indiana's institutions of higher learning also are making strides in attracting new students and offering more opportunities to gain degrees that lead to fulfilling employment.

However, without high-speed internet, working and learning can cause financial and educational disparities. Many internet companies are working hard to close the digital divide in the Region and make sure everyone has access to the global economy.

That brings us back to students who need to learn how to manage the money they will make. Many politicians, educators and business leaders are figuring out the best ways to do just that. Schools and businesses are reaching out to youth to teach them how to build wealth for good and bad times.

La Porte also is preparing for a bright future. With population growth projections trending up, the city has big plans for infrastructure improvements and new amenities that will attract homeowners and businesses. And then, there's always “Living the Lake Life.”

We profile the Lake County Corn Dogs and Purdue University Northwest's new Chancellor Chris Holford, who is eager to partner with the business community.

Finally, we have a special section that features seven Hispanics in Business who believe working hard will help them realize their financial dreams. Enjoy this issue!

Read more stories from the current issue of Northwest Indiana Business Magazine.