The Business Development (BD) team wrapped up 2024 on a high note, completing its transition to a full team midway through the year. With expanded capacity, we’re poised to make 2025 a remarkable year for Northeast Indiana.
In 2024, our team identified 60 new projects and assigned 41 to our network of Local Economic Development Organizations (LEDOs). These achievements align with the goals outlined in our three-year Strategic Plan, reflecting our continued emphasis on project quality.
We enter 2025 with an “active project pipeline” of 118 ongoing opportunities. Notably, 23 of these projects advanced to the shortlist stage in 2024, cementing Northeast Indiana’s reputation as a competitive contender for final selections.
Through marketing, media, and in-person engagement, we connected with hundreds of new business contacts and generated 285 new leads from both domestic and international sources. In-person interactions with 306 site selectors and national brokers deepened our relationships and positioned Northeast Indiana as a go-to destination for business development.
This year, the BD team will expand its focus on key industries, including MedTech, logistics, aerospace and defense, and advanced manufacturing. To bolster this effort, we’ll attend multiple trade shows and events across these sectors.
Building on previous success, we’ll continue prioritizing foreign direct investment (FDI) with planned representation at SelectUSA in May and trips to Germany, Italy, South Korea, Japan, and Canada.
Strengthening relationships with site consultants remains a keystone of our strategy. In 2025, we’ll continue to participate in several networking events to stay attuned to industry trends and company needs.
Our signature Familiarization (FAM) tours continue to highlight the region’s assets. This year’s highlights include the Spring FAM Tour, 2025 Indiana Power Partners Destination Summit, and the Indiana On Top Tour.
As the BD team hits the road in 2025, we’re also eager to welcome business leaders and stakeholders to experience Northeast Indiana firsthand. Together, we’ll make this year a standout success for the region.
If you have any specific questions about our travel or how you can get involved with any of our FAM tours, please do not hesitate to reach out to a member of the NEI BD team.
