Northwest Indiana's efforts to create lasting opportunities are gaining statewide attention. Indianapolis-based Elevate Ventures included the Region in one of its 15 stops on a statewide entrepreneurship and innovation series.
The April 14 program at Lower Lincoln in Valparaiso began with the Northwest Ecosystem Exchange. The conversation included discussions about support for entrepreneurs, collaboration and innovation. Community leaders also talked about regional growth and innovation.
Elevate Ventures CEO Christopher Day's attendance showed the room that business leaders downstate area taking notice of economic growth in Northwest Indiana. Elevate Ventures is a venture capital firm that focuses on seed and early-stage businesses. It's goal is to build an innovation ecosystem in Indiana.
“From quantum computing and data centers to energy production and ag bioscience, there is no doubt in my mind that Northwest Indiana is going to be one of the most vibrant regions in the entire state,” Day said.
Valparaiso Mayor Jon Costas, Hobart Mayor Josh Huddlestun, Northwest Indiana Forum CEO Heather Ennis and Frozen Garden Founder Allyson Straka were part of the panel that discussed the importance of civic leadership.
Costas presented the idea that strong communities don't just happen, they develop when intentional decisions create the conditions needed for entrepreneurial spirit to thrive. Huddlestun reinforced the need for infrastructure investment for the future. Ennis noted that long-term growth depends on collaboration.
As the leader of the NWI Forum, Ennis has lead the Ignite the Region initiative and worked to highlight Northwest Indiana's successes in a broader context throughout the Great Lakes region.
Straka offered her perspective on starting and growing a business here. She also was presented with an Ecosystem Spotlight Award.
WeCreate CEO Wade Breitzke, who also is the founder of Lower Lincoln, reminded participants that the Region can become much more than its past.
“The future does not belong only to the East Coast or West Coast,” he said. “It belongs to regions that know who they are, know what they have and are willing to build together.
“Let's stop underselling Northwest Indiana. We have to build it. Together.”
