Did you know that Bloomington is home to 14 record labels? Secretly Canadian started more than 20 years ago out of love for underground music. Today they operate four proprietary labels, a distribution company, publishing, management and vinyl plant with more than 100 employees worldwide. 

From Upland to Oliver to Cardinal, Bloomington is making a name for itself when it comes to adult beverages. Upland Brewing has been a Bloomington mainstay for the last 20 years. And newer to the industry… craft spirits distillery Cardinal Spirits, which just opened a kitchen.

The Regional Opportunity Initiative (ROI) was established to advance economic and community prosperity in southwest central Indiana's 11-county region. Since launching last year with a more than $42 million Lilly Endowment grant, the organization has rolled out several education and workforce initiatives.  

Our special INsiders panel from Bloomington consisted of thought leaders in the education, medical device and defense industries discussing challenges and opportunities in the south central Indiana region. 

Part 2 of our special INsiders continues with topics including talent, innovation and the I-69 extension impact.