Grow Allen Becomes Part of Greater Fort Wayne Inc

Announcement Made Monday, May 18, 2026 at Press Conference

Greater Fort Wayne Inc. announced today that Grow Allen will become part of the organization’s workforce programming, strengthening efforts to support student career development and long-term economic growth in Allen County and Northeast Indiana.

As part of the transition, Grow Allen will continue its work connecting students, educators, employers, and community partners through four key areas: student presentations, student internships, educator externships, and industry tours. These efforts are designed to help students better understand local career opportunities, support stronger connections between education and industry, and build a more prepared workforce for the future.

Greater Fort Wayne Inc.’s existing workforce program, MadeByMe, will also become part of the Grow Allen initiative. The combined effort will create a more coordinated approach to workforce development by aligning programs, partners, and resources around shared goals for student success and employer engagement.

“Grow Allen has already made important progress in building stronger connections between students, schools, and employers,” said John Urbahns, president and CEO of Greater Fort Wayne Inc. “By bringing Grow Allen into Greater Fort Wayne Inc., we are strengthening our ability to support workforce growth, expand career-connected learning, and help more students see a future for themselves right here in Allen County.”

The program will be led under Greater Fort Wayne Inc.’s economic development team. Adam Welch, vice president of economic development, will oversee the workforce efforts. Dr. Park Ginder will continue to lead workforce initiatives focused on healthcare, financial services, skilled trades, and advanced manufacturing.

Through this transition, Greater Fort Wayne Inc. will assume financial responsibility for Grow Allen, with support from key community partners committed to advancing workforce development and economic growth.

The transition also includes a change for Grow Allen’s childcare initiatives. That work will move to Greater Fort Wayne Inc.’s Business Advocacy department, where it will focus on advocacy efforts at the Statehouse. Jennifer Ledger will continue to lead this work and will report to Melissa Beber, vice president of business advocacy.

“Access to quality childcare remains one of the most important workforce issues facing families and employers,” said Melissa Beber, vice president of business advocacy at Greater Fort Wayne Inc. “By aligning this work with our advocacy efforts, we can continue pushing for solutions that support working families, employers, and the long-term success of our community.”

Greater Fort Wayne Inc. looks forward to building on the momentum of Grow Allen and continuing its impact across Allen County.

“Workforce development is critical to the future of our economy,” Urbahns said. “This transition allows us to bring together strong programs, dedicated leaders, and committed partners to better serve students, employers, and the broader community.”