Merge Downtown Indiana, Indiana Co. Chamber | news

The agreement officially went into effect on January 1st. Efforts to unify these organizations have been underway since fall 2021. Officials said the alignment will create a more efficient way to serve businesses, connect with the community, attract visitors and improve economic development initiatives.

Dave Reed, chairman of the board of directors of the Indiana County Chamber of Commerce, said the new agreement will be important in moving the area forward.

“The new partnership just makes sense for both organizations and for the community,” he said. “Pooling resources to advance the vision of economic growth and a vibrant downtown is an essential building block for Indiana County’s future.”

The recent partnership with Downtown Indiana Inc. aligns with the Chamber of Commerce’s strategy to promote and protect commerce in the region.

This integration will foster a revitalized economy and cultivate practices that model the growth and exchange of new ideas that are welcome in the Indiana County community.

Chad Martin, President of the Downtown Indiana Board of Directors, says this partnership will align the vision of both organizations.

“Downtown Indiana is excited to partner with the Indiana County Chamber of Commerce, its Board of Directors and its member companies to enhance the organization’s ability to support a healthy, vibrant and well-cared for downtown,” he said. “We are fortunate to operate in a community that recognizes the value of working collaboratively toward shared goals, and we are optimistic about the impact this partnership will have in achieving those goals.”

Under the terms of the agreement, Downtown Indiana will continue to operate under its Board of Directors, with oversight and resources provided by the Chamber of Commerce. The search for a new executive director for Downtown Indiana is also underway, with the position based at the Chamber of Commerce’s offices on Philadelphia Street.

Indiana County Chamber of Commerce President Mark Hilliard said local businesses would benefit the most from the agreement.

“This collaboration will create new and exciting opportunities for downtown Indiana businesses as well as Indiana County residents,” he said. “We look forward to some exciting new events and initiatives in the years to come, as well as working together to improve some of the great things happening in downtown Indiana right now.”

Hilliard said there will be no membership changes throughout 2023 under the new agreement.

In addition, Downtown Indiana corporations that are members of the Chamber of Commerce would also be members of Downtown Indiana and would have access to the benefits of working Downtown Indiana. The Chamber also reports that a membership campaign is in the works to offer temporary membership to new members.

Further details will be announced shortly.