Collaboration, Growth Take Center Stage at IEDA Conference in Terre Haute

Heavy machinery rumbled on lots outside of the Terre Haute Convention Center–sounds of the “development renaissance” officials there said their city was experiencing.

Inside, development was also front and center as professionals from across the state gathered for the 2025 Indiana Economic Development Association Spring Conference April 28th through 29th. The forum emphasized collaboration, housing, state economic development trends, and navigating opposition to developments.

Vigo County made for a fitting setting to learn about the West Central Indiana Partnership, as it partners with Clay, Parke, Sullivan and Vermillion counties to advance opportunities throughout the region. Officials with the organization discussed the region’s plan for economic growth, enhancing quality of life, and long-term sustainability through regional collaboration. Their presentation also highlighted how the initiative pursues programming to meet the needs of partners throughout West Central Indiana, as well as the Partnership’s strategic regional marketing initiative.

A panel on housing solutions provided important lessons on why a one-size-fits-all approach cannot be applied to this significant issue.

Learn more about Housing in Hancock County

Attendees received an overview of the Trails to Innovation Project from the nearby Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, which encompasses the development of a new entrepreneurial district designed to foster innovation, collaboration, and economic growth in the Wabash Valley and beyond.

A presentation on data and trends from the IEDA’s inaugural annual survey provided a benchmark for the state of economic development in Indiana moving forward.

Did you know Ball State University has students from all 92 Indiana counties? Through its County Ambassador Program highlighted at the conference, they’re connected to representatives of their home counties in an effort to keep homegrown talent in Indiana.

An Area Development article by Indianapolis-based Corsa Strategies Founder Jacob Everett sparked an insightful discussion on navigating opposition to developments.

A presentation on the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership shed light on how that initiative brings together leaders of Central Indiana’s prominent corporations, foundations and universities to strive toward growth and prosperity.

The conference also included a tour of downtown Terre Haute featuring notable developments and reuse projects. Additionally, the gathering offered myriad opportunities to network with colleagues and contemporaries and discuss mutual challenges.

HEDC is a proud member of the IEDA and grateful for the opportunity to learn and connect.

Meet more of HEDC’s Economic Development Partners

Pictured above: Ryan Keller of Thrive West Central, left, moderates a housing panel featuring Stephanie Wells of the Indiana Fiscal Policy Institute, Matt Rayburn of the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority, and Jeff Banning of Banning Engineering.

Catch a highlight reel of the conference: