Southwest Indiana groups exploring potential merger

EVANSVILLE, Ind. (Inside INdiana Business) — Three economic and community development organizations in southwest Indiana are considering a possible merger. The Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana, Growth Alliance for Greater Evansville, and Southwest Indiana Chamber say a potential merger would “more fully harness their expertise, energy and resources.”

The boards of directors for all three organizations have agreed to continue exploring the merger opportunity after being briefed on the concept of such a move.

“The overarching goal is regional alignment and collaboration that extends well beyond the three organizations involved in the merger,” said Greg Wathen, chief executive officer of the EDC. “If the merger occurs, it will enable us to more effectively and efficiently utilize taxpayer resources to provide high impact services.”

Brad Ellsworth, board chair for the Growth Alliance, says there is already a high level of collaboration among the three organizations.

If a merger occurs, the organizations say it would likely take place by mid-2021. The combined organization would be headquartered in downtown Evansville, however the groups say they have not made any decisions about an organizational structure or specific roles.