Connections — we all look for them in everything we do. From saying “hello” to a neighbor at the grocery store to enjoying a cup of coffee with a friend, we seek common ground with those nearest to us.
That sense of camaraderie is why events like E-Day and the Society of Innovators luncheon are so important for our overall wellbeing. We get to visit with the people we sometimes see only once a year. Plus, we get the sense that we are all in this together — building the Region’s success one person, one business at a time.
This year’s events featured the talents of many entrepreneurs and innovators in the Region. E-Day celebrated its 34th year and the Society of Innovators at PNW turned 20!
Accountants also are counting on connections to build relationships with their clients and new talent as the paperwork needed to stay on top of your finances increasingly turns digital.
Then we take a look at those who “unretire.” Several Region longtime leaders left their careers, but quickly found that they weren’t meant for idleness. They suggest using the connections made during traditional employment to find that next big opportunity. The University of Notre Dame even has a program for that!
The last in our “Future of” series this year is Lowell, which has a lot of opportunities for its new residents. Housing developments, downtown shops, parks and other reasons to call the small town home are fueling a population boom. It has almost doubled in size since 1980. Look for a chance to choose the next town in the series in our 2026 media kit.
We also wrap up our series on economic development with a story I find increasingly important as federal and state funding decreases. We profile five community foundations that are the ultimate connectors, serving as the link between philanthropists and the organizations that help those in need.
We also profile Heather Hahn Sullivan, Dunes Learning Center director, who won a national award for leadership. Premier Business Solutions is building channel relationships. Opportunity Enterprises’ Lakeside Respite Center in Valparaiso is part of a “disability tourism” trend. And Leigh Morris tells us why each of our 11 institutions of higher education are unique.
Thank you for reading and advertising this year. Your ideas are always welcome. Happy holidays and enjoy this issue! •
Read more stories from the current issue of Northwest Indiana Business Magazine.
Count way to success
Big on housing
Nozzle worth noting
Answering the call
Essential adviser
Economic power of play
Sustainable prospects
Lots of buyers out there
Trending careers in trades
2026 award winners
Professional advancement
