The Region is an economically interdependent ecosystem that is home to nearly 160,000 residents. The region boast a combined labor force of 80,450, of which 78% are employed within the region itself.

The Region is part of the EcO Network, which connects residents to better economic opportunities through education. This network was designated as one of twenty-six Talent Hubs across the nation by the Lumina Foundation, and as an Indiana 21st Century Talent Region, the second in the State to receive this designation.

These successes can be attributed to regional collaboration that has taken place over the past 20 years.