Governor Braun applauds new Regional-Led Innovation Development District in South Bend

Indiana Governor Mike Braun announced today the state’s support of the Downtown South Bend (DTSB) Tech and Talent Hub, a collaborative, regional-led strategy that builds on the South Bend-Elkhart region's long-term planning and is set to advance quality of place while catalyzing high-skill job growth, innovation and revitalization for years to come.

 “As part of our new approach to economic development, we are supporting Indiana's regions to lead their own strategies for growth, and they are delivering," said Gov. Braun. “The Downtown South Bend (DTSB) Tech and Talent Hub is a prime example of what happens when the state partners with communities while empowering them to develop and implement their own unique visions for economic growth. We’re proud to come alongside the region and the many partners working together in South Bend to deliver meaningful impact for Hoosiers.”  

The emerging Tech and Talent Hub, which is a keystone of the city of South Bend’s Downtown South Bend 2045 plan, is a multi-phase initiative that will bring innovative employers, university researchers and students together in a centralized hub with pedestrian-friendly streets and gathering spaces. This new district is expected to attract related businesses and people to downtown while building demand for increased retail, dining and housing options.

The first phase of the project, Colfax Corner, was launched last week and will result in a 202,000-square-foot research and innovation hub anchored by the University of Notre Dame that is expected to bring more than 400 high-tech jobs to downtown, increase community programming and events, and result in a projected $750 million direct impact to the local economy over the next 10 years.

The development will feature a restored South Bend Tribune building and an adjoining modern research and office facility linked by a glass atrium and outdoor public plaza, creating a vibrant district where innovation connects with the broader community. Vertical construction is anticipated to begin in summer 2026, with completion expected by summer 2028.

Colfax Corner and the broader Tech and Talent Hub is the product of cross-sector collaboration among Notre Dame, Ancora, the city of South Bend, the state of Indiana, Lilly Endowment Inc. and the Leighton Foundation. Based on the expected economic and community impact of the project, the Indiana Office of Commerce is supporting the hub through an Innovation Development District (IDD) designation, resulting in up to $225 million contributed by the IEDC to projects within the IDD over 30 years that will be funded through incremental tax revenue generated by the projects.