Our readers’ picks, plus the region’s rising stars. The ballots have been cast and counted. Our cover story reveals our readers’ views about the best in business in Northwest Indiana and Greater South Bend/Michiana. We think all winners and runners-up really represent what’s great about our region, and we offer our congratulations! We hope you […]
Roads, rail and bridges help drive the region’s economy. by Rick A. Richards Indiana’s motto, Crossroads of America, makes it clear transportation isn’t taken lightly in the Hoosier state. Thanks to eight interstate highways–more than any other state–the idea of Indiana being the nation’s crossroads has been expanded by making Indiana a business destination. But
Credit unions offer alternatives to traditional banking. by Michael Puente When the great recession hit in 2008 and lasted through much of 2009, securing a loan through a traditional bank became more difficult, with stricter income guidelines and tougher collateral requirements as a way to reduce the risk of loans going unpaid. That meant some
Clients seek value, convenience, technology and green sensibilities. by Lauren Caggiano Like many aspects of life and business, the economic viability of downtowns across the area has a profound impact on the event and meeting planning industries. Meeting planners from Northern Indiana venues weigh in on trends in customer service, food and beverage service, technology
New tools help job recruiters connect with the right candidates. By Steve Kaelble Where do you hear about a great new restaurant in town? Increasingly, through social media. Where do you share that goofy, captioned photo of a cat playing a piano? A social media site, of course. What’s the verdict on the new episode
by Shari Held It’s too soon to tell if 2013 will be a breakout year, but there’s a lot going on in Northwest Indiana and the Chicago area for 2013. “We are optimistic about 2013, with convention and sports bookings ahead of this time last year for the upcoming year,” says Carolyne Wallace, director of
Not-for-profit manufacturer serves those with special needs. by Kathy McKimmie The coveralls worn by the sailor cleaning the deck of the Navy’s USS Enterprise are likely made at Gary’s TradeWinds Services, a regional not-for-profit serving children and adults with special needs for 45 years. For 25 of those years it has carved a niche in
Setting an example with perseverance and hard work. by Rick A. Richards The 2012 Entrepreneurial Excellence Award recipients have one thing in common: Not one of them expected to be where they are today and none anticipated they would be held up as a mentor for others. But when the Northwest Indiana Small Business Development
