South Bend Regional Chamber

On the latest episode of the Behind the Region podcast, we sit down with Rich Carlton, President & CEO of Aunalytics. Rich shares insights into Aunalytics' role in the IT industry, explaining how the company navigates the fast-paced, ever-evolving tech landscape. We also dive into their strategies for attracting and retaining top talent, particularly in the face of increasing competition from national brands entering the market. Listen here, https://lnkd.in/gDVY6kPE, or wherever you listen to podcasts. #ConveneConnectGrow

Thanks to the Northern Indiana Regional Development Authority (RDA) for their READI 2.0 awards today. Their recommendations are now being moved to the IEDC for final approval. The RDA received over 50 requests for funds, totaling more than $250 million in asks. Thirteen projects were awarded $42.5 million in funds, which will help catalyze $613 million in investment in our region. We're excited about all of the projects and how they'll positively impact the communities in Elkhart, Marshall, and St. Joseph counties. We're especially excited about the awards that will impact St. Joseph County, which totals close to $24 million and include the following projects: Tri-County Workforce Home Ownership Initiative (Region-wide), $4.1 million Michigan & Monroe Arts District (South Bend, St. Joseph County), $3.7 million. Master Plan Phase 3 - Big Cat Tracks (South Bend, St. Joseph County), $1 million. 100 Center Historic Revitalization Project (Mishawaka, St. Joseph County), $5.64 million.         YMCA Childcare Network (South Bend, St. Joseph County), $220,000 Riverfront West (South Bend, St. Joseph County), $5.64 million Western Avenue Transformation District (South Bend, St. Joseph County), $3.61 million New Carlisle 2.0 (New Carlisle, St. Joseph County), $78,000 Also, a big thanks to the South Bend-Elkhart Regional Partnership for administering the READI program for our region. Exciting times are ahead for our region!

Our Career Coaching Fellowship is taking deep industry dives to inspire educators through workplace connections – providing knowledge they can transfer to their students through meaningful activities, information, and partnerships.  Twenty regional educators and a variety of community partners are convening to strengthen the career and post-secondary readiness of our rising young talent.  We’re thrilled to have representation from nearly every district in our county and very grateful to Chamber Member and Manufacturing Days Premier Partner, Steel Warehouse, for so effectively immersing the team in manufacturing! Our industry connectED team stands ready to help connect your company with area classrooms. #industryconnectED

Reins of Life, Inc. Therapeutic Horseback Riding broke ground on a major expansion project this past Thursday, Dec. 12, marking the first step in enhancing its Quince Road facility! The new, ADA-compliant space will feature an indoor arena, eight horse stalls, a sensory gym, and other upgrades to support therapeutic programs. #ConveneConnectGrow

Join us for our last Solutions for Success Virtual Seminar of 2024, sponsored by SYM Financial Advisors, on "Taking Care of Your Mental Health as a Working Professional." Clinical therapist Hannah Trader, MSW, Team Lead in Adult Case Management at Oaklawn Psychiatric Center, will share practical strategies to manage stress and prioritize well-being while balancing career demands. Register now to invest in your mental health and professional success: https://bit.ly/41B0m6M #ConveneConnectGrow

Friday we dropped a new episode of the South Bend Regional Chamber Behind the Region podcast. Join Mark and I for our conversation with Josh Gobel, serial entrepreneur and owner of Gobels Commercial Cleaning. Listen below.

This morning, we kicked off the holiday season with our Chamber ambassador holiday gathering at the Beiger Mansion! The South Bend Regional Chamber is incredibly thankful for our amazing team of ambassadors. Their passion, commitment, and hard work make a lasting impact on our community, and we’re excited for all that we’ll accomplish together in the year ahead! #ConveneConnectGrow

Eco Owl Press, a Union member-owned printing company in South Bend, delivers high-quality, eco-friendly printing at fair prices. Founded in 2014 by a husband-and-wife team, they prioritize sustainability and support for the local community. Their commitment to environmentally conscious practices helps businesses share their message while caring for the planet. In our Shirts & Suits video series, we highlight the people and businesses driving the South Bend economy forward! #ConveneConnectGrow

In the University of Notre Dame's just-released Regional Economic Impact Report 2024, the sum of Notre Dame’s annual impact—through its operations and capital investments, and additional spending by students, visitors, and event attendees—is $3.3 billion within the region. View the full report here: https://lnkd.in/gmYxGTTQ

On the latest episode of the Behind the Region podcast, we're joined by Kristian Stankiewicz, Founder and CEO of MAKS Plastics in Mishawaka. Kristian's journey to owning MAKS Plastics is nothing short of fascinating, and he’s eager to share the story behind it! He dives into what truly motivates him to show up every day—hint: it’s not what you might think. Plus, he opens up about the incredible team that helps drive the company’s success and reveals the secret to attracting and keeping top talent. Listen here, https://lnkd.in/gDVY6kPE, or wherever you listen to podcasts. #ConveneConnectGrow