One of the keys to success in the classroom is student health...Paramount Schools of Excellence is taking a unique approach to increase test scores by decreasing the number of visits to the school nurse. Executive Director at Paramount Schools of Excellence Tommy Reddicks and Dr. Azure Angelov, an independent researcher shares the goal of the project and highlights some of the results.

The National Association of Women Business Owners or NAWBO is a unified voice for America's more than 11 million women-owned businesses. NAWBO-Indianapolis is celebrating the 16th year of its Visionary Awards luncheon...a testament to the community’s desire to see women in business succeed. President of the NAWBO-Indianapolis Board of Directors Lisa Purichia explains the NAWBO impact and why the awards are important.

The official start to the holiday shopping season is upon us and Hoosiers are shopping in full force since there are six fewer days this year between Thanksgiving and Christmas than last year. We breakdown the retail outlook with Butler University’s Bill Rieber.

Hobart prepares to host Truman University from the Indianapolis-based Great Lakes Valley Conference and Ohio Dominican from the Great Midwest Conference will square off at Hobart’s Brickyard Stadium in a bowl game featuring NCAA Division II institutions. Jim Naumovich, Commissioner of the GLVC, and Katie Holderby, Executive Vice President of the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority, co-host of the game with the city of Hobart and explain the new endeavor.

A revolutionary way for orthodontists to buy all the equipment they need:  a one-stop online shop with roots right here in central Indiana. Nick Wangler, co-founder of Orthodontic Details Marketplace, joins us in the INnovators with Dr. K to explain how it works.

We head west to Indiana State University where a Sycamore alum…and the school’s first female president…is leading the charge to carve out a new identity for ISU. President Deborah Curtis joins us to share her vision on making “American Dream” thrive at the university.

IU Health makes a $100 million commitment to make Indiana healthier. The new strategy? IU Health CEO Dennis Murphy explains how pooling resources to combat where people live and lifestyle habits to a more holistic approach to healthcare.

Each week a group of INsiders joins us to sound off on some of the state’s top stories...this week, Lilly with a $400 million plan to expand in Indy...Brian Bosma leaving the legislature and NCAA board OKs athlete compensation for image, likeness, and more! Joining me are Kaannan & Associates Founder and Principal Aubrey Annan, Content by Carter President and CEO Cam Carter and Ice Miller Partner In Charge Of Client Relations Melissa Proffitt.

The explosion of technology has put a strain on energy use at a vital resource for nearly every business on the planet… data centers. Co-owner and President Alex Carroll of Lifeline Data Centers explains how a new patented technology can help combat high energy consumption needs.

As 2019 is quickly drawing to a close, state legislators are looking ahead at priorities for the 2020 Indiana General Assembly.  Ginovus Executive Managing Director Larry Gigerich has perspective and a look at some the of top priorities when it comes to economic development.

Big things are brewing in Terre Haute… plans are underway on a highly anticipated casino and construction continues on a long-talked about Convention Center. Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce President Kristin Craig has details on the potential impact and what’s next for Vigo County and the Wabash Valley.

The holidays are the perfect time to try some iconic Hoosier eats like sugar cream pie, or maybe a piping hot tenderloin or Indiana’s signature wine, Traminette that is grown and served at over half of the state’s wineries. Yelp’s Brittany Smith takes us on a statewide tour in this month’s Trendiana segment.

Big changes may be coming for NCAA student-athletes. The NCAA has opened the door for student-athletes to be compensated for the use of their likenesses. NCAA Chief Operating Officer Donald Remy explains what’s behind the move and break down next steps in making the plan come together.

The Infosys U.S. Education Center reaches a construction milestone on more than 70-acres at the former Indianapolis International Airport terminal...Rick Cardwell, the head of the company’s Midwest region, has new details on the $245 million and plans for adding 3,000 jobs. 

Indianapolis-based Parker Technology says it’s the only company in the parking industry that can deliver face-to-face communication via a patented?two-way video intercom. CEO Brian Wolff talks about landing a $2 million seed round of funding. 

Project Lead the Way is continuing its focus on Indiana’s Future-Ready Workforce. This week we explore some of the most effective ways businesses can get involved to support students and build the workforce of tomorrow?  Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing & Communications Officer Brandi Davis-Handy explains how companies can engage with local schools by investing time, resources or expertise. 

A change in leadership at one of Indiana’s oldest and largest tech companies. Ontario Systems co-founder and CEO Ron Fauquher is retiring making way for Jason Harrington to take the reins.  Both share their vision for what’s next for the company.

Kids may like pizza and fries for lunch, but Indiana schools also want them to eat fresh, healthy, locally grown food, too. And now there is a new tool to help make that happen. In the Business of Health, Indiana Grown Program Director Heather Tallman explains how the new Buyer's Guide can help.

The Simon Youth Foundation is celebrating a milestone: 20 years of turning thousands of would-be dropouts into high school graduates. In our (i) on Education segment, CEO J. Michael Durnil explains how that translates into a huge economic impact. 

Some of the hottest jobs of the future are expected to be in the world of Esports and video gaming. Director of Esports and Gaming Technology at Butler University Eric Kammeyer explains what Butler is doing for students and the gamers around the city of Indianapolis.

Are Boomers staying too long on the job? If so, are they blocking growth opportunities for Millennials and Gen Xers? And what impact is it having on businesses? KSM Location Advisors CEO Tim Cook and President Katie Culp are here to weigh in on this in this month’s (i) on Economic Development.

For some perspective on the sale of Hulman & Co. and its subsidiaries, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the NTT IndyCar Series, and IMS Productions, to Penske Entertainment Corporation and what it all means... Inside INdiana Business Contributor Bill Benner offers his perspective.

There was another big announcement at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway this week. The IMS and Energy Systems Network have announced a $1 million prize competition surrounding autonomous vehicles. The Indy Autonomous Challenge will feature universities from around the world creating software for self-driving Indy Lights cars. IMS President Doug Boles and Energy Systems Network CEO Paul Mitchell explain how the two-year competition will culminate in a head-to-head, high-speed race in 2021.

Each week a group of INsiders joins us to offer perspective on the week’s top stories. This week sounding off on the change in ownership at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Roger Penske’s vision to grow the track and more. CHARGE President and Founder Ken Ungar, Bose Public Affairs Group Principal Roger Harvey and Bill Benner share their perspectives.

A nonprofit in Noblesville is celebrating its 40th anniversary. Janus Developmental Services works with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, matching them with jobs in the community. CEO Christina Sorensen explains the benefits for businesses and clients.

It’s the end of an era… and the beginning of a new one. The Hulman-George family selling the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the IndyCar series Penske Entertainment Corp. and legendary team owner and business executive Roger Penske. Hulman & Co. CEO Mark Miles discusses the impact the blockbuster deal could have on IMS, Indiana and open wheel racing.

Fishers-based Software-as-a-Service company Formstack has experienced tremendous growth including five acquisitions in less than two years. Leadership will join us to explain what’s fueling success.

Lebanon-based D-A Lubricant Company is celebrating a huge milestone… 100 years in business. Owner and CEO Mike Protogere talks about plans to expand in at least three states.

It’s a summer camp like no other! The first ever Construction Camp, hosted by the Tippecanoe Building Trades Construction Council, gave students hands-on experience to learn about specific trades alongside professional educators and apprentice instructors. Tippecanoe Building Trades President Stephen Snyder has more on plans to grow the camp for next summer and how camp impacted the trade associations with an immediate uptick in traffic and interest in available job openings.

For more than a century, the steel industry has employed thousands and served as the backbone of the northwest Indiana economy.  From U.S. Steel’s largest domestic mill, Gary Works, to ArcelorMittal’s Indiana Harbor complex in East Chicago, the largest integrated steel making facility in North America, steel is still important, but a very different industry here... The Times of Northwest Indiana Business Reporter Joseph S. Pete looks at what’s next.

Two “soccer moms” created Portage-based BNutty, a gourmet peanut butter company that outgrew its humble beginnings in a kitchen and is now expanding and investing nearly $2 million with plans to create up to 100 new jobs. Owners Joy Thompkins and Carol Podolak share their story and vision.

Northwest Indiana is the state’s second-largest regional economy and the steel industry has served as its backbone for decades. But there are other emerging economic drivers, like a $40 million data center planned for Hammond, which is targeting companies like Amazon and Hulu. Workforce development will be key in filling these new economy jobs. Center of Workforce Innovations in Porter County CEO Linda Woloshansky explains more about the region’s changing workforce.

The South Shore Line West Lake Corridor is billed as the project of a generation, creating a crucial "Hoosier Gateway to Chicago." Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority CEO Bill Hanna talks about the South Shore and other projects remaking the region.

There’s a new mantra and movement that’s gaining traction here in the region: it’s called the Grass is Greener in Indiana campaign. South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority President and CEO Speros Batistatos explains what it is and why it’s specifically aimed at those living in neighboring Illinois.

You see them on the sidelines, in the stands or on the field or court... and now the Mascot Hall of Fame honors these entertaining, unsung heroes of sports and communities! The interactive exhibits are focused on STEAM-based education… Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math. Executive Director Orestes Hernandez shares how this unique venue is 25,000 square-feet of fun for kids, adults and sports fans.

Tourism in northwest Indiana is big business, especially after the Dunes earned national park status earlier this year, a first for the state. We’ll talk with Indiana Dunes Tourism Executive Director Lorelei Weimer about record crowds and what’s ahead.

Each week a group of INsiders offer perspective on the week’s top stories. This week our special panel is sounding off on all things NWI. From the West Lake Corridor project to the focus on getting more people to move to IN from IL to how the Region is stepping up its workforce development game. Our panel: Gary Mayor Karen Freeman Wilson, NIPSCO Economic Development Director Don Babcock and South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority President and CEO Speros Batistatos.

Why are companies continuing to invest in central Indiana and why is it so hard to fill manufacturing jobs in the state?  KSM Location Advisors CEO Tim Cook and President Katie Culp weigh in on this month’s (i) on Economic Development.

The Indy Fuel are opening their new East Coast Hockey League season with a new coach and he’s intent on making the Fuel into an ECHL contender. Doug Christiansen is also the Fuel general manager and he arrives from the ECHL’s Manchester Monarchs, where he compiled an excellent record and guided the team into the second round of the playoffs. Christiansen is in studio to share his vision.

It’s a problem facing many Indiana communities: what to do with those old, vacant big box stores like Marsh? Some of the buildings have been transformed into indoor recreation spaces and storage facilities. But not in Shelby County—desks and crayons have replaced grocery aisles. We go inside the new Golden Bear Preschool.

Indiana University is marking its two-year anniversary of waging war on opioid abuse. IU launched the “Responding to the Addictions Crisis” in 2017 as part of the Grand Challenges Program. IU’s initiative is the nation's largest and most comprehensive university-led response. As it marks the 2-year anniversary, leaders are reflecting on some of the progress made.

Foppers Pet Treat Bakery in Logansport is the brainchild of a mom who gave in to her daughter’s wish to bring a dog into the family. Shortly after “Holly” joined the fold, the Michelle Leffert started a small pet boutique bakery. That was 2004. Today, that startup has grown into a multi-million-dollar business and one of the winners of Walmart’s Open Call event in June. CEO Michelle Leffert explains her company’s keys to success.

Up until about six years ago, Tam Markey worked in the corporate world as engineer with Amoco and BP Pipelines. But the Purdue grad always wanted to be a teacher. So, Markey followed her heart and applied for a Woodrow Wilson Teaching Fellowship to teach high school engineering. Now Markey holds the distinction of being Indiana’s Teacher of the Year for her work at Lawrence Township’s McKenzie Center for Innovation and Technology.

Rising startup Covideo has evolved from a bootstrap startup in Lafayette to a thriving business now located in Indianapolis. Learn why Indianapolis-based tech networking platform Powderkeg recently named Covideo the Top-Rated Health and Balance winner at the inaugural Indiana Breakout Tech Culture Awards.

This week, 70,000 people will descend on downtown Indianapolis for the annual National FFA Convention with a laser focus: how best to attract talent and develop the next generation of agbioscience leaders in Indiana.  AgriNovus Indiana is playing a key role in all this and president and CEO Beth Bechdol joins us on the show to explain how.

What’s next for the former GM Stamping plant site in downtown Indianapolis now that plans for the $1.4 billion Waterside have been scrapped? Will the city follow through on its imminent domain threat? Leadership from Ambrose Property Group reacts and talks next moves.

A major Renewable Natural Gas facility is coming to Indianapolis. It will convert landfill gas into approximately 8 million gallons of RNG annually. Kinetrex Energy CEO Aaron Johnson has more on the environmental and economic impact of this big investment.

Ingram Micro is a global leader in technology and supply chain services and is growing again in Indiana, with plans to add more than 100 jobs...this time in Plainfield. Executive Director of North American Operations Steve Osborne explains why the Hoosier state is a good fit.

Since its inception in 2011, the one-day Indiana Conference for Women has become the largest gathering of professional and entrepreneurial women in the Midwest.  The goal of the conference is to build a strong ecosystem that helps women build careers, create companies and experience positive lives. Indiana Conference for Women Founder Billie Dragoo-Garcia and Executive Director Pam Dyar have a preview of this year’s event.

The Humane Society for Hamilton County started at the county jail campus, then moved next to a hazardous waste facility. In the business of nonprofits, hear about plans for a state-of-the art facility and the impact that goes beyond animal care. President and CEO Rebecca Stevens and Chairman of the Board, Humane Society for Hamilton County Kim Ebert detail a huge fundraising campaign.

Telemedicine is already connecting patients with doctors. Now the digital age is linking veterinarians with pet owners. Pet Wellness Clinics Associate Veterinarian Dr. Kerry Peterson explains how its new Tele-Tails service means your pet can see the vet without leaving home and why it can benefit both vets and pet owners.

A new report provides a snapshot of the state’s effort to close the achievement gap. A key factor?  The 21st Century Scholars Program. Indiana Commission for Higher Education Commissioner Teresa Lubbers breaks down the report and explains where improvements can be made.

For now, it’s just a vision, but officials at Indiana State University are daring to dream---to see what-could-be---for ISU athletics facilities. Indiana State officials have unveiled a master plan for an on-campus athletics complex called the Sycamore Sports District. ISU’s Director of Athletics Sherard Clinkscales details the plan that calls for a new softball field, a basketball practice facility and perhaps most importantly, an on-campus football stadium.

Each week a group of INsiders offer perspective on the week’s top stories. This week sounding off on what’s next for the old GM Stamping plant site in downtown Indianapolis…plus expansion plans for Ruoff Mortgage in Fort Wayne and much more.

The general manager of Indy Scream Park says Halloween attractions have gone from simple, local novelties to a competitive industry. The haunted house park in Anderson is celebrating its 10th year and during that time, has opened a sister facility in Florida and is looking toward further upgrades for future years, including a ride attraction in addition to the haunted houses. 

The Stutz Artists Association has named its 2019-20 Resident Artist. Kassie Woodworth, a 2019 graduate of Herron School of Art and Design, was chosen from over 40 artists who applied for the Residency program.

Each week a group of INsiders joins us to offer perspective on the week’s top stories. This week we’re sounding off on the potential impact of increased overseas economic development trips, a new distribution center and hundreds of jobs coming to Westfield and Hoosier breweries shine in Denver.

Indianapolis is gearing up to host the star-studded NBA All-Star weekend in less than a year and-a-half.  All-Star Legacy Project host committee co-chair Rafael Sanchez explains how it’s going to be an event with statewide impact and a potential game-changer for 21 youth-serving nonprofits and hundreds of kids around the state. 

Students in Marion are soaring to new heights in the Aviation Academy at the Marion Regional Career Center. The unique, two-year program is a partnership with Marion Community Schools in Grant County. Aviation Instructor Scott Simpson and Aviation Academy Student Emma Jacobs talk about the program and how it could help attract new business to Grant County.

It’s being billed as a game-changer for Indiana small businesses when it comes to health insurance. Thanks to a new alliance between the Indiana Chamber and Anthem, small businesses can now participate in plans typically only available to larger companies.  Leadership from the Chamber and Anthem are in studio with details.

The International Economic Development Council is a nonprofit, non-partisan membership organization serving economic developers around the globe. With more than 5,000 members, IEDC is the largest organization of its kind in the world. This year the annual conference will be held in Indianapolis and the theme is Driving Growth, the race for talent, innovation and place. Host Committee Chairperson Maureen Krauss shares how Indy landed the conference and why it’s important.

The Hoosier Lottery celebrated a milestone over the weekend. Sunday marked the 30 years since the first Hoosier Lottery ticket was sold and the lottery is touting its successes over the past three decades. 

Genesys says it powers more than 25 billion of the world’s best customer experiences each year. More than 11,000 companies in over 100 countries trust Genesys Cloud’s platform. Vice President of Corporate Affairs Todd Pedersen explains why the company was recently named Powderkeg’s Top-Rated Social Impact winner.

Indiana Secretary of Commerce Jim Schellinger says a recent trade trip to India included a rare meeting that produced some interesting results.  Schellinger and Governor Eric Holcomb were granted an audience with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 

An alternative to the traditional way of starting a business which usually consists of things like writing a business plan and securing a loan.  It’s called the PopUp Business School. It’s free and it’s coming to Indianapolis. Assistant Vice Chancellor for the Office of Community Engagement at IUPUI Teresa Bennett explains how the school works.

Each week a group of INsiders joins me to offer perspective on what’s happening around Indiana. This week we discuss the importance of the Indiana National Lab Day event which is Monday. It’s an effort to bring together researchers, industry, government and other key stakeholders from Indiana and the U.S. to build on the research capabilities and strengths in Indiana in the areas of Trusted Microelectronics, Artificial Intelligence, Hypersonics and Quantum Science.

Bosma Enterprises has provided jobs and opportunities to the blind and visually impaired for more than a century and now the company has a new leader. Meet Bosma CEO Jeff Mittman and learn about his plans for growth.

Indianapolis-based Powderkeg recently honored Indiana tech companies who emphasize and prioritize strong workplace culture. This week, we profile AuthentiCx, a business that walked away with the top award for “emerging culture.” Founder and CEO Amy Brown shares their keys to success.

Fall is a wonderful time of year in Indiana to get outside and see the changing colors or even try something new. In this month’s Trendiana, Yelp’s Brittany Smith shows us a few new ways to experience fall around the state.

Indianapolis-based Senior Home Companions has been providing non-medical in-home care for aging Hoosiers for 25 years. Building on that experience, the company is launching a new concept focused on memory care. Owner and President David Morgan shows us more of how the new model in memory care works. 

The Indy Eleven are about to wrap up a very successful regular season and head into the United Soccer League playoffs. Despite a recent rough road stretch, the Eleven remain very much in the USL playoff hunt, especially because of an amazing run of dominance on their home pitch at Lucas Oil Stadium. Team President and CEO Greg Stremlaw discusses the season thus far and has an update on plans for a hoped-for new home of Indy Eleven Park.

The impact of Indianapolis International Airport on the Indiana economy. For the second time in four years J.D. Power has named Indy the best medium-sized airport in North America. But with more nonstop flights and massive development on the way, the economic impact continues to grow. Airport Executive Director Mario Rodriguez has details.

The chief executive officer of TechPoint says the response to the "Wish You Were Here" campaign exceeded expectations. The state's technology accelerator has partnered with Indianapolis-based TMap LLC in an effort to bring former Hoosiers currently working out of state back to Indiana. Mike Langellier said they had hoped for 100-150 applicants and ended up with nearly 400 from throughout the country. 

The National Institutes of Health has awarded a $36 million grant to the IU School of Medicine to launch a drug discovery center focused on accelerating the development of treatments for Alzheimer's disease. The center is part of a strategic partnership with the Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery, and IU says the partnership is one of only two multi-institution teams in the country selected for a new federal program designed to grow the drug development pipeline for the disease.

IU Ventures recently launched the IU Angel Network to help connect IU affiliated companies with prospective investor’s among Indiana University’s global community of alumni, faculty, staff and students. IU Ventures CEO Tony Armstrong and Associate Vice President Jason Whitney explain how the network will further IU’s mission of fostering an entrepreneurial culture that contributes to the state’s economy.

Built on more than 30 years of industry experience, Carmel-based Baker Hill says it is continuing to deliver cutting-edge banking solutions that empower financial institutions. Its NextGen platform serves 500 financial institutions, including more than 20% of the top 150 U.S. banks and 20% of the top 25 U.S. credit unions. CEO John Deignan explains what’s next at Baker Hill.

Each week a group of INsiders joins me to offer perspective on the week’s top stories. This week we’re sounding off on is Indiana’s Venture Capital environment improving and Eleven Fifty Academy opens a new headquarters and the Pacers are headed overseas.

IUPU Columbus is a pioneer in the nation with the use of virtual reality technology in its nursing simulation lab. One scenario that was developed for the lab is both timely and common to the region—neonatal abstinence syndrome, which involves an infant born to a mother addicted to drugs. UITS Executive Director of IT Services Bill Fields and IUPUC Director of Regional Healthcare Pipeline Carrie Shaver explain how the technology helps students prepare for real-life situations.

Every woman, eventually, will have to make peace with menopause, and likely, the hot flashes that come with it. An IU expert believes the condition could benefit from more open dialogue, empathy, and the debunking of myths. Those are just a few goals of the new art exhibit created by Associate Dean for Research and Distinguished Professor at the IU School of Nursing Janet Carpenter. She shares more about her creation.

The Indiana Pacers will be part of NBA history this week as the team participates in the National Basketball Association’s first games ever in India.  The Pacers and Sacramento Kings will play preseason games Friday and Saturday at the NSCI Dome in Mumbai. The team will embark on the 20-hour flight Tuesday.  

Since 2016, special concerts by local and national artists, have helped raise nearly $200,000 for 14 nonprofits to help kids, adults and families in need. Concerts for a Cause hosts the quarterly live concerts to raise money for charities. Co-founder Bruce Kidd has a preview of the next concert in a few weeks and a look ahead to next year.

Big news on the Indiana tech scene! Indianapolis-based Zylo, the largest independent enterprise Software-as-a-Service management platform, has completed one of the largest Series B rounds of funding ever in the state. CEO Eric Christopher discusses how the money will create jobs and a national tech brand.

After years of talk... and months of construction... the IndyGo Red Line Bus Rapid Transit is ready to welcome passengers. IndyGo’s new CEO Inez Evans explains what to expect from Indy’s voyage into mass transit and her vision on the transit system.

Indiana's life sciences initiative is launching a new competition designed to help solve two health issues facing Hoosiers: diabetes and opioid abuse. BioCrossroads says the DataX BioInnovation Challenge was created to "intersect life sciences and data research," giving innovators the opportunity to use data sets to identify and investigate hypotheses to improve the health issues. The winning team or teams could receive up to $50,000 in cash.

A member of the Indy Women in Tech Foundation Board of Directors says an important goal of the nonprofit with the LPGA tournament at the Brickyard Crossing golf course is to shine a light on opportunities for women and children in STEM. 

The entrepreneur behind start-up Chexology has seen his business grow from humble beginnings in a Broad Ripple basement to an appearance on Shark Tank to where it is today: a multi-million-dollar global company. Chexology Founder and CEO Derek Pacqué shares what’s fueling growth with Dr. K.

The newest restaurant to hit the downtown Indianapolis scene is the brainchild of a former NHL hockey player with deep generational roots to the East Coast fishing industry. Meet Fred Knipscheer and learn how his family plays a key role in getting fish from sea to plate within 24 hours.

Six years after a merger made it Indiana’s largest youth soccer club, Indy Premier is growing physically as well as expanding its statewide presence. In addition to debuting two new turf fields, Indy Premier has formed club partnerships in Terre Haute and South Bend and now boasts of more than 2,000 players ranging from 2 years old to adults. Executive Director Bryan Michel has more on soccer’s ever-growing Hoosier presence.

Researchers at the Regenstrief Institute in Indianapolis are taking the lead on numerous healthcare issues. From collecting and analyzing data on opioids, to the study of how certain drugs could possibly cause Alzheimer’s and dementia to trials on ways to eliminate back pain… and that’s not all. Regenstrief President and CEO Peter Embi has more on the institute’s projects.

Indiana has nearly a half million veterans living in the state. And a top priority of the US Department of Veterans Affairs is to ensure that those veterans receive the benefits and services they have earned. Technology has helped the Veterans Benefits Administration streamline programs and improve benefit delivery. Under Secretary for Benefits Dr. Paul Lawrence explains what is being done to help our veterans.

Indianapolis-based Powderkeg is honoring Indiana tech companies for workplace culture. The tech networking platform has handed out its Breakout Tech Culture Awards and Socio walked away as the top overall winner. Socio Founder Yarkin Sakucoglu and Powderkeg CEO Matt Hunckler explain what the awards mean for Indiana’s growing tech sector.

Nearly 50,000 United Auto Workers are on strike across the US including 7,000 thousand union workers at four plants in Indiana. Director for the Center for Business and Research at Ball State University Michael Hicks looks at the impact it could have on the Hoosier state.

The president of Ball State University says he is optimistic about the growth trajectory for the school and the Muncie community at large. Ball State recently set a new record for total enrollment with more than 22,000 students, including its largest-ever freshman class. The university is also continuing with several major capital projects, including the more than $87 million Foundational Sciences building, which broke ground earlier this month.

A medical consulting startup is celebrating the grand opening of its new downtown Indianapolis headquarters. The Indiana Economic Development Corp. says Expert RN|MD, which provides medical consultation services to law firms and life science companies, is investing $1.7 million in the new location and plans to create up to 21 jobs by the end of 2023.

As Fort Wayne prepares to christen its latest big downtown project, Mayor Tom Henry says there are no signs of transformational development slowing down in the state’s second largest city. The Landing, a $34 million downtown redevelopment project, is expected to officially open soon, one of an estimated 14 projects that Henry says can help Fort Wayne become a destination city. 

Indiana has the highest concentration of manufacturing workers in the country, but the industry’s negative perception is hurting talent attraction efforts. Conexus Indiana CEO Mark Howell talks about changing the perception and putting more students on the path to advanced manufacturing and logistics jobs. If you would like to learn more about how you can participate in Manufacturing Day, visit MFGDay.com.

How strong is Indiana’s economy if a recession were to hit? KSM Location Advisors CEO Tim Cook and President Katie Culp weigh in on this month’s (i) on Economic Development.

Major improvements are coming to the 37-Corridor in Hamilton County. And it’s going to have a major impact on not only travel, but on businesses in the area. Our Mary-Rachel Redman has more from Fishers.

Learn how one Indiana organization is preparing the next generation to go beyond simply clocking in and out of work by pushing them to become civic leaders and changemakers. We’ll explain the mission of Indiana Campus Compact with Executive Director J.R. Jamison and UIndy Junior and ICC Grant Recipient Ally Nickerson.

Have you ever heard of pickleball?  See why this combination of tennis, racquetball and ping pong is one of the fastest growing sports in the country. Pickleball Professional Rick Witsken explains why it’s starting to catch on here in Indiana.

Schott Design is reusing, recycling, and redesigning building materials to keep them out of landfills. Schott leadership talks about a unique sustainability effort and getting others to join in.

We continue our Project Lead The Way “Indiana’s Future-Ready Workforce” series and learn about the value of connecting students with local businesses, especially in careers like engineering, where the job market is tight. Rolls-Royce Engineer Cameron Crenshaw explains how Project Lead The Way played a key role on his path to success.

Indianapolis-based Early Learning Indiana is celebrating its inaugural Early Learning Day of Impact. The event features more than 200 volunteers from throughout the city working to give a boost to the organization's nine Day Early Learning centers. 

A group of Fishers residents has been chosen for the inaugural cohort in the Fishers Test Kitchen. The restaurant accelerator, slated to open later this fall, will feature the chefs' concepts as part of the Sun King Fishers Innovation Brewery at The Yard at Fishers District. Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness, who was part of the board tasked with selecting the culinary entrepreneurs, says the accelerator is the next step in Fishers becoming an entrepreneurial city.

Each week a group of INsiders joins me to offer perspective on some of the week’s top stories. This week sounding off on IndyGo launches its Red Line, it’s legal to place sports bets in Indiana and honoring Andrew Luck.

In just a few weeks, the Brickyard Crossing Golf Course will host third Indiana Women in Tech Championship. It’s more than just an LPGA Tour event! It includes a leadership summit focusing on tech, diversity and inclusion as well as a STEM event for area youth. Chair of the IWiT local organizing committee Jennifer Pope Baker has more on all of the events.

Officials in Hamilton County are celebrating the beginning of a major construction effort. The $140 million State Road 37 Improvement project aims to address traffic congestion and public safety concerns along the SR 37 corridor between 126th and 146th streets. Hamilton County Commissioner Mark Heirbrandt says, when complete, the four-year project will not only help motorists get to their destination more quickly, but also support businesses along the corridor.

The IU Kelley School of Business at IUPUI has revamped its Evening MBA Program. The program is one of the most affordable top-ranked programs in the United States. Evening MBA Faculty Chair Kyle Anderson explains the reasons behind the changes to the 24-month MBA program.

Children are more vulnerable to lead than adults; it can cause lower IQs and slowed physical growth. The Flint lead crisis rang alarm bells nationwide, but there are no federal regulations that require schools to test for lead, and most states have also not created laws. Here in Indiana, public schools are not required to test for lead. Zionsville-based 120WaterAudit wants to help parents, and school administrators, who may be thirsty for answers.

Instead of shopping online, why not hop in the car and head to hidden gems around Indiana! Yelp’s Brittany Smith has more on a Hoosier twist on a growing trend...destination shopping. Walk through countless booths at antiques malls or visit a converted diner and truck stop where many local artisans are featured under one roof.

An Indianapolis-based restaurant kitchen hood cleaning company is expanding again…Nelbud already has an impressive portfolio which includes the Pentagon, Air Force One, NFL stadiums and casinos in Vegas. CEO Michael Crafton discusses new locations, adding jobs and why they’ve targeted Indy as a “dominate” market.

South Bend-based Vennli is using a combination of artificial intelligence and customer data to build content strategies to help companies deliver bottom line results. Vennli Vice President of Product Strategy Bart Frischknecht explains why you should not be afraid of AI.

Betting on sports is now legal in Indiana. We are the 12th state in the nation to join a growing market. Casino Association of Indiana CEO Matt Bell explains ways that Indiana can cash-in, including attracting gamblers from neighboring states.

One of the country's largest single-day arts fairs returns to Indianapolis this weekend. The nonprofit Penrod Society will Saturday host its 53rd annual Penrod Arts Fair at Newfields in an effort to raise funds to support arts organizations throughout the state. More than 350 artist exhibitions will be on display and Tim Haley, the 2019 Arts Fair chair for the Penrod Society, tells Inside INdiana Business the event aims to further the nonprofit's mission to provide grants.

The Indiana Department of Education has released the results of the first ILEARN exam conducted in the spring. The results show only 37.1 percent of students in grades 3-8 passed the exam, a decrease of more than 13 percent from the previous year's ISTEP+ test. State Superintendent Jennifer McCormick says a drop in test scores was expected with the implementation of a new exam and the 2019 results "do not provide a true reflection of the performance of Indiana's schools.

During a news conference on the results of the state's first ILEARN exam, Indiana Superintendent of Public Instruction Jennifer McCormick was asked if the millions of dollars the state has spent to implement ILEARN was worth it. McCormick said that was an important question to ask.

The chief operating officer of IndyGo says the initial turnout for the new Red Line bus rapid transit line over Labor Day weekend was "tremendous." IndyGo and the city of Indianapolis held a public celebration this morning, two days after the launch of the service. Roscoe Brown says they've seen great ridership early in the first full day of service and the organization expects those numbers to continue to rise throughout the month and beyond.

Each week a group of INsiders joins me to offer perspective on some of the week’s top stories. This week we’re sounding off on the Andrew Luck retirement, IndyGo’s Red Line launches and the first year for ILEARN and the scores are in and much more.

One month into the job, new WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert says she is ready to stir things up and use her business acumen to shore up the financial outlook for the professional basketball league. Our Mary-Rachel Redman caught up with the former chief executive officer of accounting firm Deloitte this week when she was in Indianapolis for Inspiring Women Night at an Indiana Fever game.

Colts quarterback Andrew Luck’s retirement shook the entire sports world...and state of Indiana...and one of the first tasked to capture and comment on the bombshell news was WISH-TV’s Sports Director Anthony Calhoun. He takes a look both back, and forward, on what occurred and what it portends.

The Alzheimer’s Association Greater Indiana Chapter is backing its mission with its largest ever research grant. Dr. Liana Apostolova, a professor at the IU School of Medicine, and Natalie Sutton, Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Indiana Chapter explain how the money pushes a prestigious IU School of Medicine study to the next level.

Snapology is a company that combines play with education. Fun programs teach children ages 3-14 a mixture of interactive play-based programs in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics using building toys and technology. We look at the STEAM-based program with Snapology Indy West owner Steve Berg.

For more than three decades, Indianapolis-based RATIO Architects has completed projects across the country and around the globe. Founding Principal Bill Browne shares how a high-profile merger will extend the firm’s footprint even further.

The Brickyard 400 is next weekend at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. An event that was once sold out has struggled to attract fans and interest. IMS President Doug Boles details plans to get more fans in the stands for what remains an important event for NASCAR and Indiana.

The Techstars SportsTech Accelerator Powered by Indy has selected 10 startups to take part in its inaugural class. The startups will relocate to Indianapolis for three months for mentorship with experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts. Techstars Managing Director Jordan Fliegel has more on the 2019 Class of startups and what this innovative initiative is all about.

In her first season as president of the Indiana Fever, Allison Barber talks equal pay, corporate sponsors and the future of the franchise.

As weather and trade issues make 2019 a difficult year for many Indiana farmers, a U.S. agriculture official with strong ties to the state says the proposed replacement for the North American Free Trade Agreement would bring something the farm economy desperately needs:  stability.  

A month on the job, new WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert is ready to stir things up at the league office and use her business acumen to shore up the financial outlook for the professional basketball league. The former chief executive officer of accounting firm Deloitte was in Indianapolis for Inspiring Women Night at an Indiana Fever game this week.

BeeFree Gluten-Free Bakery has seen tremendous growth in less than a decade! From humble beginnings at farmers markets to the shelves of thousands of food store chains nationwide. BeeFree Creator Jennifer Wiese shares what’s fueling success, including a major deal with Wal-Mart.

In our (I) on Economic Development segment, we’ll dive into the long-awaited launch of the Red Line and its potential impact...a promising report on Indiana’s venture capital activity and much more with KSM Location Advisors CEO Tim Cook and President Katie Culp.

Germany and Indiana have built a strong working relationship over the years, with Germany serving as the state’s second largest foreign direct investor with 120 businesses across Indiana.  The German Consul General for the Midwest was here this week to talk about ways to continue building Germany’s relationship with Indiana and he sat down with our Mary-Rachel Redman.

The 65th annual Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals, the World’s Biggest Drag Race, is just around the corner. This iconic event at Lucas Oil Raceway will feature intense side-by-side racing at more than 320 mph as drivers in Top Fuel and Funny Car battle for glory.

Christian Theological Seminary traces its origins to 1855 and the founding of North Western Christian University in downtown Indianapolis. The seminary has named its seventh president... Dr. David Mellott. He explains his vision for CTS.

It can be a challenge to get minority, women, veteran and disabled business owners if front of prospective buyers for projects. Leadership from the Office of Minority Women and Business Development explains how its Reverse Trade Show helps foster growth for local minority-owned businesses.

An Indiana tech company and a research powerhouse are combining forces to put health at Hoosiers’ fingertips with a new free app. Becoming a healthier state means more Hoosiers need to get involved, so the Life Extend app is designed just for Indiana residents aims to make daily health habits a little more fun and interactive by the Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute and Indianapolis-based tech startup LifeOmic.

Indiana’s Great Southwest is about to shine on an international stage...we’ll show you the ads that will appear on the Golf Channel touting business, industry and quality of life and economic development chief Greg Wathen has details on nearly a billion dollars in projects in the region.

The Consul General of the Federal Republic of Germany in Chicago is looking to expand an innovative apprenticeship program to Indiana. Wolfgang Moessinger traveled to Indiana this week to pitch the ICATT Apprenticeship Program, which is based in Chicago, to Governor Eric Holcomb. The program was developed by the German Chamber of Commerce of the Midwest and focuses specifically on high-tech manufacturing companies.

FlykeART, a Purdue University-affiliated student startup, has developed a lighter and smarter galley cart for airlines. In this month’s INnovators with Dr. K, learn how FlykeART is helping airlines become more efficient.

After five seconds of looking at your eye with a smartphone, Brightlamp's machine learning algorithm can tell whether you've sustained serious head trauma. And now the Purdue University graduates behind the patented Reflex app have made it far more mobile. On the INnovators with Dr. K… we learn how it is now able to detect other things, like Alzheimer's.

It’s being called the mailbox of the future. DroneDek is making drone package delivery a reality by combining a unique landing pad, mailbox and smartphone app. Chief Executive Officer Dan O’Toole is the creator of DroneDek and shows us how it works.

We continue our Project Lead The Way “Indiana’s Future-Ready Workforce” series with a focus on the nursing shortage…it’s the most in-demand occupation in the state. Find out why and what businesses and educators are doing to address the shortage.

Each week a group of INsiders joins me to offer perspective on some of the week’s top stories. This week we’re sounding off on Indiana colleges and universities engaging in economic development, a tough year continues for farmers and how is Andrew Luck?

The Mastodons are on the move. Purdue Fort Wayne will soon have a new home – with an Indianapolis connection. Horizon League with Commissioner Jon LeCrone has more on the school’s switch.

Safe Hiring Solutions in Danville is using next generation technology to improve school safety. It is one of very few firms across the nation integrated with police level background screening. They have conducted more than 750,000 K-12 background checks, as well as providing screening options for higher education institutions like Purdue and I.U.

CBD is part of a hot consumer health trend, and it’s taking on new importance in Indiana. July 1, it became legal for Hoosier farmers to grow hemp, the plant source for CBD. Heartland Harvest Processing Founder and Chief Marketing Officer Chris Moorman explains how they are helping farmers connect the new agricultural commodity to consumer products.

It’s National Coffee Month and across Indiana there’s something for everyone whether you like it strong, hot, iced or something with global flair! In our Trendiana segment, Yelp’s Brittany Smith introduces us to the entrepreneurs and their coffee shops that are transforming neighborhoods.

Anvl, a spin-off of Indianapolis-based venture studio High Alpha, has completed a $2 million seed round of funding and is expanding again. Founder and CEO Robin Fleming has more on plans to create dozens of jobs.

Some doubted Westfield’s ambitious sports strategy... but as Grand Park celebrates its 5th anniversary, the Colts are wrapping up camp there and more big changes are on the way downtown, the new $37 million plan for the Grand Junction District. Mayor Andy Cook has details on his city’s transformation...and what’s next.

The Indy Thunder has once again brought home the title of champions from the World Series of Beep Baseball.  Comprised of players who are blind and visually impaired, the team earned its fourth-straight national championship during the series played in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

The president of Butler University says the new building for the Lacy School of Business will create better engagement for students and faculty. The university unveiled the building Wednesday on the Indianapolis campus. James Danko says the new facility adds five times the classroom space and square footage for the school, which previously didn't have enough space for half of its classes.

Each week a group of INsiders joins me to offer perspective on some of the week’s top stories. This week sounding off on the economic impact the Indiana State Fair has on the state, plus the impact weather has on the farm economy...Colts training camp continues and much more.

IndyCar, in partnership with engine manufacturers Chevrolet and Honda, announced a new system will bring both added horsepower and competitiveness to the series beginning in 2022 while next season an important safety component called an Aeroscreen will provide added protection for drivers. INDYCAR President Jay Frye discusses both of these important developments.

The Orr Fellowship has just welcomed its largest class of fellows ever-68 top college grads! Orr Fellowship Founder and President Scott Brenton and Director of Recruitment Kristen McCauley join us to explain the importance and how college seniors from 47 states applied for the program.

The Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center has been advancing health care in the state for two decades, and just this week, it earned one of the highest honors in the country. IU Simon Cancer Center Dr. Patrick Loehrer explains what this means for the center and for Hoosier patients.

A popular destination for fair goers interested in the latest John Deere equipment from everything to lawnmowers to combines is the MacReynolds Barn. Our Mary-Rachel Redman stopped by to talk with the team from Reynolds Farm Equipment to learn about the newest technology changing the game for Indiana farmers.

What started as a dream and 240 acres...today, Lamb Farms in Boone County includes more than 10,000 acres and serves as a model of modern agriculture. Vice President Don Lamb starts about a difficult 2019 and gives his take on the state of ag in Indiana.

The state of Indiana’s agriculture economy. The wet spring led to late planting and in many cases, no planting at all. It has taken a heavy toll on farmers across the state. Indiana State Department of Agriculture Director Bruce Kettler talks about the impact, a trade trip to Mexico and the state of the Hoosier agriculture economy.

We paid a visit to the Indiana State Fairgrounds this week to learn more about the fair’s economic impact, including a $50 million plan to replace the aging Swine Barn with a multi-purpose, year-round event facility envisioned as a best-in-class livestock venue. Indiana State Fairgrounds and Events Center Vice President of Development Ray Allison shares more about the big investment.

The founder of Indianapolis-based RecycleForce says a federal grant will allow his company to continue providing transitional employment to ex-offenders. The U.S. Department of Labor awarded a $1.5 million grant, which the city of Indianapolis says will help re-establish the Indianapolis Career Pathways Collaborative. The company says the funding will help provide employment, OSHA Safety, and industry-recognized credential training to nearly 200 people with a moderate-to-high risk of...

The Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center has received what it calls an elite federal designation. The center is now recognized as a National Cancer Institute-Comprehensive Cancer Center, making it the only one of its kind in Indiana and just the 51st in the nation. The IU Simon Cancer Center received an "outstanding" rating by NCI reviewers and has been awarded a five-year, $13.8 million grant to support its research programs and shared facilities.

Each week a group of INsiders joins me to offer perspective on some of the week’s top stories. This week sounding off on the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership celebrating a major milestone… its 20th Anniversary. It is a holding company for several statewide initiatives, including AgriNovus Indiana, Ascend Indiana, BioCrossroads, Conexus Indiana, Energy Systems Network, and TechPoint. We look at the impact of the CICP and what’s next.

The Indianapolis Indians and Elements Financial announced a major financial partnership this week that will result in the most significant upgrade in Victory Field’s 23-year history. 

The Sportscar Vintage Racing Association is returning to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway this weekend for the Brickyard Invitational, and it does so under new leadership. President Matt Breeden discusses the growing membership, more cars and an increasing schedule and discusses his role with this unique part of the motorsport’s universe.

In just a few weeks, Butler University will welcome students in a new building for the Lacy School of Business. We were allowed inside first to give you a sneak peek. Plus, a new sciences complex is set to take shape on campus. The $100 million renovation and expansion are billed as the largest investment ever by trustees in the school’s future. President James Danko talks about the reasons behind the big investment.

Economic development leaders in the northeast part of the state say Indiana is fertile soil for the development of health-focused “Internet of Things” technologies…and Fort Wayne is leading the charge. In the Business of Health, learn more about the new Indiana Connected Health IoT Lab.

It’s a first of its kind in the Midwest, the “Cheese and Thank You” food truck, where the food is prepped, marketed and served by young adults with developmental disabilities. New Hope of Indiana is behind the program and Director of Community Outreach Kathy Ballard joins us with details.

Indiana Limestone Company was in bankruptcy in 2014, but a merger with Canada-based Polycor created the world’s leading producer of natural stone. We’ll take a look inside a turnaround at this traditional Indiana company.

Indy Women in Tech is helping hundreds of middle school girls “Ignite Their Superpowers” at a third annual STEM Day. IWiT leadership explains how the hands-on learning event can help put girls on the path to STEM careers.

It is one of the largest, and most unique, conventions in Indiana. Gen Con is back, and organizers expect the event to generate more than $70 million in economic impact for Indianapolis. But what about future big conventions now that a big hotel project is being delayed? Visit Indy’s Chris Gahl joins with details.

The Indianapolis Indians have secured a multi-year partnership with Indy-based Elements Financial as the naming rights partner for the team's new club space at Victory Field. The Elements Financial Club will be constructed on the field's upper level behind home plate during the offseason and will be ready by opening day 2020. 

A comedy show next week in Indianapolis aims to raise money for cancer research in the name of a trailblazer in the city's tech scene. Comedy Against Cancer will celebrate the life of Denver Hutt, the former executive director of The Speak Easy in Indy who passed away in 2016 after battling cancer. Proceeds from the event, which is being headlined by Indianapolis native Megan Gailey, will benefit immunotherapy research at the Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center.

Indianapolis-based RATIO Architects Inc. has merged with Humphries Poli Architects P.C., headquartered in Denver. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, however the firm says the combined entity, which will operate as RATIO nationwide, will create a "unified and innovative design force on the national design landscape." RATIO also has locations in Illinois and North Carolina.

The director of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture says while it will be difficult for farmers to get through the tough farming season this year, but there is room for optimism. Bruce Kettler spoke Tuesday at the Indiana Ag Policy Summit in Indianapolis and says the strength of the agriculture industry and Hoosier farms is good, but not great. 

The chief executive officer of California-based eHealth Inc. (Nasdaq: EHTH) says, if all goes as planned, the company's new Indianapolis location will be its biggest operation. The private online health insurance exchange announced Monday it is investing more than $10 million to establish its Eastern U.S. Technology and Operations Headquarters on the north side of Indy and create up to 500 jobs by the end of 2023.

Officials have cut the ribbon on the new Purdue Polytechnic High School North in Indianapolis. The STEM-based high school, located in the city's Broad Ripple neighborhood, is the second campus in Indy. Principal Keeanna Warren says the schools is set to meet the needs of students by creating an environment where they can easily innovate, collaborate and communicate with each other.