In 2025, Ascend focused on working more closely with regional partners who know their communities best. By providing these intermediaries with the data, tools, and support they need, we’re helping them strengthen their local economies and create more opportunities for the people they serve. As Indiana moves toward a more regional approach to economic development, these partners will play an even bigger role in expanding our reach and impact.

As we look to build upon this strategy in 2026, we are focused on three key priorities:

Supporting Regional Intermediaries

Our approach starts with a simple idea: strong regions create a strong state. After taking a close look at more than 200 organizations, we identified 27 intermediaries that are doing especially impactful work. Together, they reach about three-quarters of Indiana’s population and workforce. These partners are now connected through a new Intermediary Learning Network, where they can share ideas, learn from one another, and access targeted support from Ascend. This network will help expand high-quality work-based learning, strengthen regional workforce alignment, and contribute to long-term economic growth across Indiana.

Delivering Statewide Work-Based Learning Tools

To help Indiana schools and employers meet the state’s updated graduation requirements, we created an extensive library of practical work-based learning tools that we will continue to build over the next year. The first round of resources will be released in Q1 of 2026 through our Work-Based Learning Digital Resource Hub and endorsed by the Indiana Department of Education. They’re designed to make it easier for educators, employers, and community partners to offer meaningful, career-connected experiences that prepare students for real jobs and real opportunities.

Aligning Research Across the State

Ascend is also focused on ensuring Indiana’s education and training systems keep pace with the needs of our rapidly evolving industries. Our State of the Advanced Industries Workforce Report—with research launched in early 2025 and publication expected later this year—highlights where workforce needs are growing and how education can better align with employer demand.

We also launched the Insights Collaborative, a new effort to bring public and private data together in one trusted place. This shared resource will help leaders across the state make smarter decisions about policy, programs, and funding.

Across all this work, the goal is straightforward: reduce fragmentation, strengthen partnerships, and make Indiana’s workforce system easier to navigate and more effective for everyone involved. I’m confident that when systems are aligned, expectations are clear, and partners are supported with the right tools and data, Hoosiers are better positioned to find meaningful pathways in a changing economy. Ascend is proud to play a statewide role in that effort, and we look forward to continuing this work alongside partners who are committed to expanding opportunity for Hoosiers across every region of the state.