The South Bend – Elkhart Regional Partnership's WE+YOU initiative helped land the International Economic Development Council's Excellence in Economic Development Award.
The WE+YOU initiative focuses on developing and retaining top talent. The partnership received the honor in September at the council’s annual conference in Denver, Colorado. The partnership was noted as a silver winner.
“This recognition underscores the hard work and dedication of our team, partners and the community in driving meaningful talent development and retention in the Region,” said Bethany Hartley, South Bend – Elkhart Regional Partnership president and CEO, in a in a press release. “Through initiatives like WE+YOU, we are committed to building a vibrant, inclusive and innovative community that fosters opportunity and growth for all.”
The awards honor economic development organizations, government entities, initiatives and programs.
“The South Bend – Elkhart Regional Partnership is setting the standard of excellence for economic development with its WE+YOU initiative,” said Nathan Ohle, council president and CEO. “This award highlights regional partnership’s commitment to its community and demonstrates the transformative impact of economic development.”
The partnership developed the WE+YOU initiative to attract and retain talent and encourage economic growth. WE+YOU focuses on attracting students, current or prospective residents and returners. The initiative aims to raise awareness of the Region’s assets, amenities and opportunities.
The program’s components include:
- A remote worker strategy: Draws remote workers to the Region with relocation incentives.
- Student immersion experience: Offers a free overnight experience for college students highlighting internships, employment opportunities and life in the Region.
- Regional internship program: Connects interns with opportunities at regional companies and programs, while reimbursing employers for a portion of the intern’s wages.
- Regional skills accelerator: Offers training grants supporting employee skill development and earning industry credentials and certificates.
The Michigan Economic Development Corp. was named a bronze winner.
Kevin Cramer, chair of IEDC’s awards committee, praised this year’s award winners.
“The regional partnership’s contributions will leave a lasting impact and demonstrate its commitment to creating positive change for its residents,” Cramer said.
