GFW Inc. Organizational History
Our Commitment to
Fort Wayne & Allen County
For more than 10 years, our organization has been a driving force for economic growth and community transformation in Fort Wayne and Allen County. Thanks to the efforts of our dedicated team, visionary board members, supportive partners, and engaged community, we continue to:
Our journey reflects resilience and innovation. We have faced challenges and embraced opportunities with a focus on collaboration and inclusivity. These principles help us turn bold ideas into meaningful, lasting results.
Looking ahead, our mission remains clear: To drive economic prosperity and improve the well-being of our community. Together, we will continue building a thriving region that creates pride and opportunity for future generations.
A look back at the
history of Greater Fort Wayne Inc.
2012
A transitional board chair is named to lead the merger of two key economic development organizations.
2013
A new President and CEO is hired as GFW Inc. is established, opens its headquarters downtown, and celebrates a successful community merger.
2014
A new Executive Vice President and Board Chair step into leadership as GFW Inc. reaches a positive net cash balance.
2015
GFW Inc. appoints new leadership, launches its first Inter-City Visit to Michigan, and presents the $1.2 billion Regional Cities Initiative.
2016
GFW Inc. completes the Target Industry Analysis and launches the “Opportunity on the Edge of Greatness” vision with five major long-term projects.
2017
Allen County sees positive net migration, hosts its second Inter-City Visit to Durham, and gains approval to advance the Riverfront project.
2018
A new Board Chair begins their term as GFW Inc. secures funding for Electric Works, breaks ground on The Landing, visits Greenville, NC, and earns Indiana Chamber of the Year. The Diversity and Inclusion Task Force and Women’s Network are also launched to support equity and leadership.
2019
GFW Inc. appoints new executive leadership, launches the MadeByMe Coalition, breaks ground on The Bradley, visits Louisville for the Inter-City Visit, and earns national recognition while gathering insights through the Allen County Business Survey and dissolving the Chamber Foundation.
2020
A new Board Chair begins as GFW Inc. launches Onboard Fort Wayne, adapts programs during COVID-19, supports members through outreach, administers relief grants, and provides vital business resources through webinars and a centralized hub.
2021
GFW Inc. hosts the 2021 Inter-City Visit to Carmel and Fishers, earns ACCE Chamber finalist honors, launches C-Suite Socials, and helps secure READI grant funding.
2022
GFW Inc. implements the Allen County Together Plan, hosts its first Economic Development Summit, and welcomes a new Board Chair.
2023
GFW Inc. visits Huntsville to explore innovation and workforce strategies, launches Gateways for Growth, and introduces The Intern Experience program.
2024
GFW Inc. celebrates its 10-year anniversary, helps attract a Google data center to southeast Fort Wayne, and surpasses $2 billion in annual private investment.
2025
GFW Inc. continues to drive growth and momentum, strengthening the economy and community in Allen County.