Blog: Fort Wayne Making Progress

InsideINdianaBusiness.com Report

At a recent roundtable discussion, executives of Indiana companies gathered to discuss trends, challenges and opportunities for businesses in northern Indiana. The blog from the Northern Indiana Companies Roundtable with Gerry Dick is sponsored by Ice Miller LLP. Today's entry is from Vera Bradley Public Relations Representative Melissa Cordial.

Fort Wayne isn't what typically comes to mind when thinking about booming cities for young people, but it's trying. The Young Leaders of Northeast Indiana (YLNI) is moving mountains by implementing social gatherings at local restaurants and attractions with a two-fold plan: 1) to encourage young professionals to collaborate on issues important to the future of the city; and 2) to familiarize these young people with the fun culture that many of the restaurants and attractions boast.

YLNI is also making strides with the community by initiating the Barr Street Market (a local farmer's market held in downtown Fort Wayne on Saturday mornings) and hosting leadership forums and seminars for young professionals interested in serving on community boards.

The Allen County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) has also taken steps toward a fabulously fun city by erecting hip signage across the city that highlights and directs visitors and locals to attractions like the Botanical Conservatory, museums, performing arts center, and the extraordinary genealogy center.

The CVB's campaign, Room for Dreams, highlights the city's affordable housing, positive quality of life and ample opportunities for businesses to prosper.

Fort Wayne has quite a few hurdles to jump to compete with other cities in Indiana and the mid-west; yet, it's certainly making progress.