Indiana recently welcomed the world to the Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC) in Indianapolis – a fitting location given the momentum building across our state around innovation, startups and next-generation economic growth. Over 100 countries were represented at GEC 2025, and while the event’s global scope was impressive, Indiana’s story stood out. From tech founders to policymakers to international delegations, people took notice: something big is happening here.
That same energy was on display at Butler University during the STARTedUP Foundation’s statewide student pitch competition, Innovate WithIN. Hundreds of high school innovators from across Indiana vied for a chance to compete at the state finals, which culminated in Compleyes.ai taking home the championship, a company that uses AI-powered tools to help manufacturing companies streamline environmental compliance. The Indiana Chamber remains a champion for this event and youth entrepreneurship as a whole.
These events represent the tangible, people-powered expression of Indiana Prosperity 2035 (IP35), our strategic blueprint to ensure Indiana remains economically competitive in the decades ahead. One of IP35’s core pillars is building a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. That means nurturing new ventures, growing tech-enabled industries and ensuring our workforce is ready for a future shaped by disruption. A number of laws going into effect on July 1 advance these goals; see above story.
As we look ahead, our mission is clear: to ensure Indiana remains a place where big ideas can take root and grow. Our course for long-term prosperity is reliant upon smart public policy, intentional collaboration and a relentless focus on talent and innovation, and – if what we have seen this month is any indication – Indiana’s next generation of entrepreneurs is more than ready. And so are we.
