Indiana Communities Institute

Photo: Local artists and residents connect in locations throughout downtown Fort Wayne during the annual Art This Way Art Crawl. Credit: Downtown Fort Wayne/Rachel Von Art LLC.

Who We Are

The work we do at the Indiana Communities Institute is inspired by a simple vision—better communities for more people. To foster this vision, ICI's mission is to help communities build greater capacity to achieve prosperity and well-being for their people and places. Our efforts are centered on community, grounded in research, engaged in practice, and focused on policy.

Our impact is evident across Indiana (and beyond) in regions and communities of all sizes. We are excited to explore how we might help your community gain a deeper understanding and envision a brighter future.

Meet the Team Ball State Magazine Feature

Four adults pose with arms crossed in front of illustrated houses, trees, and a community neighborhood scene.

Group in matching red shirts poses at a Cass County Re-Imagined booth during a community event.

Community-Based Projects

Every community has a unique combination of assets—comprehensive wealth—that can form a rich foundation for sustainable growth. By honoring these values, we assist regions, counties, cities, towns, and neighborhoods as they navigate ongoing and significant change to ensure a more vibrant and sustainable future.

Learn more about our customized, community-based projects and initiatives.

Browse Our Work

Educational Experiences and Trainings

The ICI Academy serves as a national model for how to creatively and effectively advance community economic development pursuits. Whether you are new to the field or a seasoned professional looking to brush up on your skills, we offer a variety of trainings throughout the year, including in-person workshops and multi-day courses.

Our educational experiences combine grounded insights from academics and practitioners with an extensive network of partnerships and resources to deliver modern economic development and sustainable community growth strategies.

Browse our educational experiences

Join Our Mailing List

Sign up to join the Indiana Communities Institute’s email list and receive registration and offering updates.

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Partners

The Indiana Communities Institute collaborates with a number of experts and talented professionals across the Ball State campus. They provide research, technical resources, guidance, and professional knowledge to our many projects.

Center for Business and Economic Research

Rural Policy Research Institute

Bowen Center for Public Affairs

College of Architecture and PLanning