About

triangles-bg-element.svg

Empowering Northwest Indiana

One Region is a dynamic network of executive leaders dedicated to driving positive change in Northwest Indiana. Our Mission is to bring together talent, ideas, and resources to create a thriving and inclusive community. With a clear vision for the future, we are committed to fostering innovation, collaboration, and economic growth in the region.

triangles-bg-element.svg
Attendees gathered at a community event hosted by One Region

Our Journey

From Industrial Powerhouse to Modern Innovator

Founded to address Northwest Indiana's unique challenges, One Region emerged during the manufacturing boom fueled by the area's abundant natural resources. As traditional industries waned, we began leading efforts to diversify the economy and promote sustainable growth. Today, we leverage our proximity to Chicago to inform policy and champion local development, driving transformative initiatives that contribute to the region's continued growth and improved quality of life.

Our Mission

Driving Growth and Prosperity

Driving Population Growth

Leveraging infrastructure improvements like the Double Track and West Lake Corridor expansions, we focus on transit-oriented development to make Northwest Indiana a premier destination for businesses and families.

Increasing Household Incomes

We support high-growth industry clusters, advocate for higher wages and job quality, and drive economic diversification to boost the regional tax base and ensure economic growth benefits all residents.

Catalytic Investments

By uniting public and private sectors, we secure funding to enhance key infrastructure, transportation, and community development. This collaborative approach strengthens regional identity, attracts further investment, and drives meaningful impact in our community.

Our Impact

Economic Development

Job Creation

Strategic initiatives and partnerships leading to increased investment and job opportunities.

Enhanced Infrastructure

Making Northwest Indiana more attractive to businesses and residents.

Community Well-being

Improved Services

Comprehensive planning has improved access to services and public spaces.

Better Connectivity

Ensuring our communities thrive through enhanced connectivity.

Policy Influence

Advocacy

Actively influencing local, state, and federal policies to support business growth.

Proactive Engagement

Championing the region’s economic interests for long-term prosperity.

One Region leadership team engaged in a strategy session

A Message From the CEO

Welcome to One Region,

It is my honor to serve as the President and CEO of One Region, an organization dedicated to unlocking the immense potential of Northwest Indiana. Our vision for 2024-2026 is bold and transformative, aiming to drive economic growth, enhance our quality of life, and foster a thriving community for all.

We are at a pivotal moment. With new investments and expanded connectivity to Chicago, we have a unique opportunity to reshape our region's future. Our goals are ambitious: to build a dynamic network of leaders, champion groundbreaking projects, and advocate for policies that fuel progress and innovation.

At One Region, we believe in the power of collaboration and the strength of our community. By uniting influential leaders and leveraging local resources, we will stimulate investment, spark entrepreneurship, and create jobs that elevate our region. Our commitment to excellence and our unwavering focus on quality of life will guide us every step of the way.

With my diverse experience across key sectors and a heartfelt dedication to our community, I am excited to lead One Region towards a brighter, more prosperous future. Together, we will transform Northwest Indiana into a beacon of opportunity and success.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

Warm regards,

Portrait Photo of Matt Wells, CEO of One Region

Matthew Wells

President & CEO
One Region

Board of Directors

Jeff Ban

President, DVG Inc.

Michael Bergerson

Partner, Barnes & Thornburg

Ben Bochnowski

President & CEO of Peoples Bank

Craig Dwight

Chairman, Horizon Bank

William A. Hasse

President, Hasse Construction

Kenneth C. Holford

PhD, Chancellor, Purdue University Northwest

Ken Iwama

Vice President for Regional Campuses and Online Education, Indiana University

Robert Johnson, III

President & CEO of Cimcor (Chair-Elect)

Jeff Lewis

VP and Principal, Shive-Hattery

Stewart McMillan

Chairman, MAAC Foundation

Vince Parisi

President, NIPSCO

Monica Rubio

Market President, Old National Bank

Tom Schager

President, The Times Media Company
(New board chair for 2024-25)

Michael Schneider

SVP, Wintrust Bank (NIROC Liaison)

Violet Sistovaris

Executive Vice President & Chief Experience Officer, NiSource (ret.)

Jeff Strack

CEO, Indiana Grocery Group