Indiana-Area Council on Entrepreneurship Unveiled: Fostering Collaboration and Innovation in the Indiana Region

A Pivotal Step Towards Economic Growth and Regional Prosperity

In a bold move to bolster economic development and nurture innovation, the Indiana-Area Council on Entrepreneurship has emerged as a beacon of hope for the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. This esteemed council brings together a diverse group of individuals, each a luminary in their respective fields, united by a shared vision of propelling entrepreneurial ventures to new heights and cultivating a thriving business environment.

Introducing the Pillars of the Council

The inaugural members of the Indiana-Area Council on Entrepreneurship embody the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurial excellence. Their collective expertise and experience span the realms of business, technology, and academia, forming a formidable force dedicated to driving economic growth and regional prosperity.


  • Dan Fleming: A visionary entrepreneur and the driving force behind Memory Lane Media, Dan Fleming brings a wealth of experience in leveraging technology to transform industries.

  • John Dolan: A respected business leader and former CEO of First Commonwealth Financial Corporation, John Dolan’s insights into financial strategies and market dynamics are invaluable.

  • Dr. Erick Lauber: As the Director of the Technology and Entrepreneurship Center, Dr. Lauber possesses a deep understanding of the intricate relationship between technology and entrepreneurial success.

  • Mark Zilner: The CEO of Diamond Pharmacy Services, Mark Zilner brings a unique perspective on healthcare innovation and the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in the healthcare sector.

  • José Otero: A seasoned Portfolio Manager at Ben Franklin Technology Partners, José Otero’s expertise lies in identifying and supporting promising startups with high growth potential.

  • Tony Palamone: With years of experience as the Director of Indiana University of Pennsylvania’s Small Business Development Center, Tony Palamone is a champion for small businesses and entrepreneurs.

  • Rickey Miller: The CEO of See World Satellites, Rickey Miller’s entrepreneurial journey and success in the satellite industry serve as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs.

  • Bob Marcus: A Partner at Marcus & Mack Law Firm, Bob Marcus brings a wealth of legal knowledge and experience to the council, ensuring that entrepreneurs navigate the legal landscape with confidence.

  • John Horell: As the President of KIZ Resources, John Horell’s expertise in business development and strategic planning is a valuable asset to the council’s mission.

A Multifaceted Mission: Driving Regional Economic Development

The Indiana-Area Council on Entrepreneurship is guided by a multifaceted mission, encompassing a range of objectives aimed at addressing the region’s economic challenges and seizing opportunities for growth.


  • Encouraging Entrepreneurship: The council seeks to create an environment that fosters entrepreneurial spirit, providing aspiring business owners with the support, resources, and mentorship they need to thrive.

  • Promoting Collaboration: Recognizing the power of collective effort, the council facilitates connections between entrepreneurs, investors, and other stakeholders, fostering a network that drives innovation and growth.

  • Supporting Growth and Expansion: The council is dedicated to helping existing businesses in the region grow and expand, providing access to financing, networking opportunities, and business development assistance.

  • Attracting and Retaining Talent: The council aims to attract and retain talented individuals in the region by creating a vibrant and supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurs and businesses, encouraging them to stay and contribute to the region’s economic growth.

  • Promoting Advocacy and Policy: The council advocates for policies and initiatives that support entrepreneurship and economic development, engaging with local, state, and federal government to create a favorable environment for business growth.

A Catalyst for Regional Transformation

The Indiana-Area Council on Entrepreneurship is poised to be a transformative force in the region’s economic landscape. By fostering a collaborative and supportive environment for entrepreneurs and businesses, the council will drive innovation, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth.

Through its diverse membership, the council will provide guidance, mentorship, and resources to aspiring entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business. The council will also work to connect entrepreneurs with investors and other stakeholders, creating a network that facilitates access to capital and opportunities for collaboration.

Furthermore, the council will advocate for policies and initiatives that promote entrepreneurship and economic development, ensuring that the region has the necessary infrastructure and support systems to foster business growth. By working together, the council members will create a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem that attracts and retains talent, propelling the Indiana region toward a prosperous future.

The Indiana-Area Council on Entrepreneurship stands as a beacon of hope for the region’s economic development, poised to unleash a wave of innovation and growth. As the council embarks on its mission, it extends an invitation to all entrepreneurs, investors, and stakeholders to join forces and contribute to the transformation of the Indiana region into a thriving hub of entrepreneurial success.