Indiana Economic Outlook 2026 Breakfast
Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026 • 7:30 a.m.–9:30 a.m. • Horizon Convention Center, Muncie, IN
What can businesses and households expect in 2026? How are federal policies affecting Indiana manufacturing? Gain expert insight at the 30th annual Indiana Economic Outlook, organized by the Center for Business and Economic Research at Ball State University.
The 2026 event includes breakfast, an economic forecast by Michael J. Hicks, and a manufacturing panel discussion with Scott Buehrer and Steven M. Smith. This event is open to the public, but all attendees must register and pay in advance. No walk-ins will be permitted.
Speakers
- Scott Buehrer, President, B. Walter & Co.; and President, Vigor Therapy Equipment
- Michael J. Hicks, Director, Center for Business and Economic Research; and George & Frances Ball Distinguished Professor of Economics, Miller College of Business, Ball State University
- Steven M. Smith, Chief Executive Officer, Mid-West Metal Products Co.
Registration
Register online by Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025.
Registration and Payment
- All attendees MUST register online by the deadline (Dec. 31, 2025). No walk-ins will be permitted. No registration or payment will be accepted at the door. Price includes event seating and a breakfast buffet—please specify dietary needs on the registration form.
- Cancellations: All registration payments are due by the deadline. Should you need to cancel, you must notify us at cber@bsu.edu or 765-285-5926 no later than the deadline. Refunds will be issued for the registration amount, minus the card processing fee. No refunds will be granted after the deadline. Alternately, you may choose to send someone in your place instead of canceling. If doing so, please notify us no later than the deadline.
- Note to Journalists: Email us to make media accommodations by the registration deadline. All journalists must bring their press credentials.
Sponsor the Outlook
Sponsorship Opportunities
General Format
The event opens with welcome remarks. Meal service begins, with the program to follow. Experts share predictions for economic performance in the upcoming year. The keynote provides insight into a specific industry or issue. A question-and-answer session concludes the two-hour program.
View an archive of past Economic Outlook events, including presentation slides and handouts.
Venue and Parking
Horizon Convention Center, 401 S. High Street, Muncie, IN 47305
Find directions on Google Maps
Event parking for the Horizon Convention Center is available west of the building (surface lot) and south of the building (parking garage) using Liberty Street, Franklin Street, or Howard Street in downtown Muncie.
Questions
Contact us for inquiries about this event, including accommodations for media.
Event Organized by