What's Happening?
The Indiana Chamber of Commerce has updated its long-term economic development strategy, known as the Indiana Prosperity 2035 (IP35) plan, to focus on 18 priority goals aimed at enhancing the state's competitiveness over the next decade. This update,
released in Summer 2026, reduces the original 31 goals to 18, maintaining six strategic focus areas. The revised plan emphasizes workforce development, education, economic growth, infrastructure, and community health. Indiana Chamber President Vanessa Green Sinders highlighted the need for a focused approach to address rapid economic and demographic changes. The plan includes specific performance metrics to measure progress in areas such as workforce credentials, STEM education, and infrastructure investments. The update was developed with input from the IP35 Task Force and various state agencies.
Why It's Important?
The updated IP35 plan is crucial for Indiana as it addresses key challenges such as workforce shortages, educational attainment, and infrastructure demands. By focusing on these areas, the plan aims to attract investment and high-growth employers, ensuring the state's economic resilience. The emphasis on technology and innovation is particularly significant as it positions Indiana to leverage emerging technologies for increased productivity. The plan's focus on education and workforce development is expected to enhance the state's talent pool, making it more competitive in attracting businesses. Additionally, the plan's attention to public health and community well-being underscores the importance of a holistic approach to economic development.
What's Next?
The Indiana Chamber of Commerce will use the updated IP35 plan to guide its public policy agenda and partnerships with business, education, and government leaders. The plan's implementation will involve collaboration among employers, policymakers, and community leaders to achieve the outlined goals. The Chamber aims to ensure that the plan remains actionable and relevant, with regular assessments of progress against the established metrics. This collaborative approach is expected to drive measurable results and accelerate Indiana's economic growth and competitiveness over the next decade.
