INNOVATE INDIANA

SECTION 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY & INTRODUCTION
Building Upon Key Success Factors
Density
The rise of the knowledge economy in large part relies upon the ability for people and
businesses to interact easily among each other. Considerable research in recent years has
pointed to the value of “density among people and businesses” as an economic development
objective. Innovate Indiana includes major real-estate development opportunities and
programmatic initiatives designed to create a greater scale and density for people and
businesses to interact, building high-value relationships and value chains unique to our region.
Connectivity
Ensuring greater connectivity among people and businesses is another plan priority.
While information and communication exchange is a basic aspect of connectivity in a
knowledge-intensive economy, Innovate Indiana further addresses physical connectivity within
the region and with nearby markets. Projects work to address the extension of broadband
connectivity and trail development within the region and improved rail service to Chicago.
Amenities
While a job is a key reason why talent may move or stay in a certain community, it is not
the only reason. How an individual feels about and enjoys the place in which he or she
chooses to live and work is more of a driver now than ever before. By encouraging new
amenity development such as recreational assets, parks, trail systems, transit services and
entertainment venues, the plan works to attract and retain people who will provide services
and invest in amenities that support and enhance the region’s overall experience and
quality of place.
Productivity
Productivity is often viewed as a main measure or determinant of living standards for a
particular market region. Higher productivity based on innovation and technology can lead to
lower average costs of goods/services sold, higher profits, higher wages and overall economic
growth. Innovate Indiana is positioned to strengthen and ensure that key ingredients, such as
highly educated workers and technology resources, are present within the region to increase
the overall productivity and output for the Northern Indiana Region.
REGIONALCITIESOFNORTHERNINDIANA.ORG |
8
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
THE REGION ENGAGED CURRENT TRENDS
STATE OF THE REGION
& QUALITY OF PLACE
VISION & STRATEGY PROJECTS
STAKEHOLDERS, EXECUTION
& STRUCTURAL CHANGES
BENCHMARKING
& MEASUREMENT
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT