July 14, 2026
Indiana Strengthens Its Commitment to Entrepreneurs Through New Community Grants
Strong entrepreneurial ecosystems don’t happen by accident—they’re built through collaboration, investment, and organizations committed to helping businesses succeed. That’s why Governor Mike Braun’s recent announcement of $757,000 in Community Collaboration Fund grants is welcome news…
July 9, 2026
Rediscovering East Central Indiana: Paddle Into Adventure at Canoe Country
One of the best ways to cool off in East Central Indiana doesn’t require air conditioning—just a paddle, a life jacket, and a sense of adventure. Tucked along the scenic White River in Daleville, Canoe…
July 7, 2026
Livability Spotlight: JohnTom’s Barbecue Shows the Power of East Central Indiana Entrepreneurship
In the weeks ahead, Forge ECI will share the stories of several entrepreneurs from across our region who were recognized in the Indiana Economic Development Corporation’s Entrepreneurship Indiana 2025 publication and the 10th edition of…
July 2, 2026
Rediscovering East Central Indiana: Minnetrista and the Story of Community
Some places aren’t defined by a single experience. They’re defined by everything they bring together. In East Central Indiana, few places reflect that idea more clearly than Minnetrista Museum & Gardens—a space where history, nature,…
June 23, 2026
Learning, Connecting, and Strengthening Communities: Reflections from the 2026 Indiana Economic Development Course
Economic development is ultimately about people. It’s about creating stronger communities, supporting opportunity, and building the kinds of connections that help regions move forward together. Recently, I had the opportunity to experience that firsthand through…
June 10, 2026
Celebrating Excellence in Early Childhood Education: Muncie Teacher Earns Statewide Recognition
Great communities are built by great educators. Recently, a preschool teacher from Muncie received statewide recognition through the Hoosier Educator Award program, highlighting the important role educators play in shaping the future of Indiana’s communities.…
May 14, 2026
Rediscovering East Central Indiana: The Rinard Orchid Greenhouse at Ball State
Sometimes, the most unexpected places leave the strongest impression. Tucked inside a campus building at Ball State University, the Rinard Orchid Greenhouse offers something you might not expect to find in East Central Indiana—a tropical…
May 5, 2026
Building the Workforce: Growth at Muncie Training Center Reflects Rising Demand
Across East Central Indiana, demand for skilled talent continues to shape the future of our workforce. In Muncie, that demand is showing up in a tangible way through the recent expansion of the carpenters union…
April 28, 2026
Ball Brothers Foundation Grantee Spotlight: Ivy Tech Muncie Building Programs That Keep Pace with the Workforce
MUNCIE, IN — Walk into almost any hospital, manufacturing floor, or tech office in East Central Indiana, and chances are you’ll find someone who got their start at Ivy Tech Community College. As the largest…