The Indiana Communities Institute strives to lead an economic transition among Indiana communities from an economy based primarily on physical capital toward an economy based more heavily on human capital.
Research
We work with the Center for Business and Economic Research to create and disseminate knowledge to public policy makers, thought leaders, and influencers. This knowledge addresses material changes in the factors that influence the economic performance of communities and how they impact the state’s economic prospects.
Policy
We influence community economic development policy makers at local, regional, and state levels by emphasizing the development, retention, and attraction of human capital and by emphasizing the role of placemaking in pursuit of higher levels of economic performance. Our partnership with the national Rural Policy Research Institute led to the creation of the RUPRI Center for Local and State Policy at Ball State.
Practice
We engage with economic development stakeholders at community, regional, state, and national levels to aid in formulating and executing strategic, tactical approaches designed to improve economic prospects based on sound policy development and research findings.