Trip highlights collaboration through the Indiana Power Partnership to attract new investment to the region
Southern Indiana Business Report
ORANGE COUNTY – Skylar Whiteman, executive director of the Orange County Economic Development Partnership, recently joined economic development peers from across the state on a trip to Chicago with the Indiana Power Partnership. The event brought together site consultants, utility representatives, economic development professionals and representatives from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation to discuss opportunities for new business investment in Indiana.
Whiteman represented both Orange County and the Southwest Indiana Development Council, which serves Crawford, Daviess, Dubois, Harrison, Knox, Martin, Orange, Perry, Pike and Spencer counties. The council’s mission is to promote economic growth, attract new investment, and support the region’s communities and workforce. OCEDP works specifically to grow Orange County’s economy, support local businesses, and improve the quality of life of Orange County citizens.
“Attending this event gave me the opportunity to challenge myself, meet new people in the industry, and gain fresh perspectives,” said Whiteman in a news release. “It was a great opportunity to connect with national site consultants and share all about Orange County and the broader Southwest Indiana region. These connections help keep our communities on the radar for future business growth.”
Participants received utility updates from power partners and state-level briefings from the IEDC during each roundtable session. Whiteman was also partnered with Jeff Pipkin, Hoosier Energy’s economic development manager, for mini-meetings, which provided one-on-one opportunities to speak directly with site consultants about the SWIDC region, its assets, industries and growth potential.
Attendees heard from site consultants about current industry trends, workforce considerations, and the factors shaping site selection, including the critical role of power availability. Workforce development and readiness continues to be a key factor. Site consultants shared best practices and unique solutions they’ve seen to address quality of life factors such as housing and childcare.
The event was hosted in partnership with Hoosier Energy, Duke Energy, Indiana Municipal Power Agency, and other power providers that make up the Indiana Power Partnership – a statewide collaboration focused on promoting Indiana as a competitive, business-friendly destination for investment.
The Consultant Connect team also joined the IPP event, bringing valuable expertise and facilitating discussions between Indiana representatives and national site consultants.
The trip underscores OCEDP and SWIDC’s ongoing efforts to build relationships, attract new employers, and create opportunities for residents throughout Southwest Indiana.