INNOVATE INDIANA

MARQUEE PROJECT I | SECTION 6
INNOVATION DISTRICT SOUTH BEND
The accelerated investment in both
In summary, a group of entrepreneurs
adaptive reuse projects and new
and leaders are already transforming
construction is sparking a true
our industrial legacy into a bustling hub
renaissance in our Region. This rebirth in for high-tech businesses of the future.
Northern Indiana is inspiring millennials, By further developing a critical mass of
entrepreneurs and former residents to economic, physical and networking
come, stay and join in the rebuilding of assets, the Innovation District will
South Bend from yesterday’s Rust Belt to generate the vitality needed to transform
tomorrow’s Tech Belt. And, it is working! the regional economy.
In 2014, after decades of population
decline and stagnation, South Bend saw The following segments further
its first population increase. Dilapidated outline each element and help quantify
Studebaker buildings that once served the potential impact of the Regional
as a reminder of South Bend’s industrial Cities Partnership to this already
downturn are now a rallying point for
coordinated effort.
entrepreneurs striving to put South Bend
back on the map through technology.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY THE REGION ENGAGED CURRENT TRENDS
STATE OF THE REGION
& QUALITY OF PLACE
VISION & STRATEGY
PROJECTS
IGNITION PARK
Ignition Park, a budding 140-acre technology, research and manufacturing center
built on the old Studebaker grounds, is a key infrastructure component to the
Innovation District. Abandoned buildings were demolished in an aggressive
brownfield reclamation effort to make way for the high-tech manufacturing,
commercialization and office complex. This is one of the locations making up
Indiana’s first two-site State-Certified Technology Park (the other site is Innovation
Park at Notre Dame, see page 38).
REGIONALCITIESOFNORTHERNINDIANA.ORG |
55
STAKEHOLDERS, EXECUTION
& STRUCTURAL CHANGES
BENCHMARKING
& MEASUREMENT
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT