ECIRP’s Annual Luncheon Reveals $700 Million in Investment and 500 New Jobs in the Region for 2023
The East Central Indiana Regional Partnership recently hosted its annual luncheon, a gathering that highlighted the region's achievements, recognized outstanding contributors, and provided insights into future endeavors.
Trevor Friedeberg, President and CEO of the Partnership, reviewed the activities and initiatives undertaken in 2023. These included the successful implementation and management of READI 1.0 and READI 2.0 planning, demonstrating a commitment to regional development and progress. Additionally, Friedeberg emphasized the organization's endeavors in business development and talent attraction through strategic sales trips, participation in key conferences, and impactful marketing efforts. Notably, the region celebrated significant project activity, boasting $700 million in capital investment and the creation of 500 new jobs throughout the year.
Guest speakers Alexis Sowder and Alex Miller from KSM delivered an insightful presentation on the site selection outlook for 2024, offering valuable perspectives on upcoming opportunities and challenges in the region's economic landscape.
The luncheon also served as a platform to honor exemplary individuals who have made significant contributions to the East Central Indiana community:
Travis Richards, representing the Jay County Development Corporation, received the prestigious ECI Pathfinder Partnership Award. This recognition underscored Richards' dedication and collaborative spirit, which has significantly advanced the development agenda within his community and the broader region.
Susan Reed, a longstanding board member at Baker Tilly, received the ECI Strategic Stewardship Award in acknowledgment of her remarkable 11-year tenure of service. Reed's commitment to strategic governance has been instrumental in steering the organization towards sustainable growth and impact.
The event drew participation from a diverse audience of 100 attendees and was hosted at the Horizon Convention Center. Generous sponsorship from IMPA, Duke Energy, and First Financial contributed to the success of the luncheon, further highlighting the collaboration and support that defines the East Central Indiana region.
As the region continues to chart its course toward a vibrant future, events like these play a pivotal role in fostering collaboration, celebrating successes, and inspiring continued innovation and growth.