Business success depends on collective wisdom. A few years ago, I received a phone call from a small-business banker. He explained how a client of his recently acquired the business he worked at for 10 years. His client, who we will call Joe, has since depleted a bank loan, maxed out his personal credit cards, […]
Busy Year for the Forum
Bringing jobs and investment to Northwest Indiana. 2011 has been an exciting year for Northwest Indiana and the Northwest Indiana Forum. We continue to market and promote the region, build and foster key relationships, and work to bring quality, higher-paying jobs and capital investment to the region while protecting and respecting the environment. In its […]
A New Mindset
Living up to our region’s incredible potential. “We have met the enemy and he is us” is a quote from the old comic strip, Pogo. As we strive to integrate sustainable development in Northwest Indiana, the perception of us as “Region Rats” impedes the initiative. The 1989 fall of the Berlin Wall caused an economic […]
Buy American
And while you’re at it, Buy Northwest Indiana. The recent Great Recession has revealed the strong impact the global economy has on the United States, and more specifically our region’s economy. Within the past five years, many companies within the office-products industry have increased their private-label brand items that are primarily manufactured outside the United […]
Meeting Small Business Challenges
By Marianne Markowitz Throughout my travels in Indiana and the Midwest, I see the challenges that small businesses face — finding ways and resources to meet the day-to-day operations. I can assure you that many of these challenges are being met thanks to the small business provisions in the Jobs Act, which was signed […]
Leading in Challenging Times
Perhaps its an age old saying, but “Leaders Lead.” Success when facing challenges takes leaders who act. Are there reasons why leaders need to act? Certainly. For example, leaders have access to lots of information about the issues and opportunities. Others may have access to the information but may not have time to digest the […]