we are heartland forward

a think-and-do tank

Working as a resource for states and communities to advance economic success

The latest

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PRESS RELEASE: Applications Now Open for Detroit Residents to Turn Their New Business Ideas into Reality Through Builders + Backers Idea Accelerator Powered by Heartland Forward
PRESS RELEASE: Katie Milligan of Heartland Forward Announced as New Obama Foundation United States Leader
  • Newsroom
PRESS RELEASE: WINTER COHORT CLOSES WITH NEARLY 100 BUILDERS GETTING $400,000 IN FUNDING TO TEST IDEAS

Our Focus Areas

Innovation & entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of a community’s economy. Our research and programs focus on developing opportunities to spur entrepreneurship and stimulate business creation right here in the heartland.

Human capital & workforce development

People along with their education and training are the most important asset of a state and region’s economy.Our work focuses on the education, training and funding of programs that promote job growth and stimulate local economies.

Health & wellness

Accessibility, affordability and adoptability in healthcare must lead to better individual health outcomes.We seek to advance the healthcare workforce, public policy changes, modernizations, new technologies, quality of life and programs. This investment of time and resources is designed to create healthier communities.

Regional economic competitiveness

A successful and vibrant heartland is one that attracts businesses, entrepreneurs and human capital while maintaining a healthy workforce and quality of life for the people who live and work in the region.We are committed to ensuring the 20 states that make-up the heartland remain the 3rd largest GDP in the world.

Where we Work

We define the heartland as 20 states – making-up some of the largest cities and thriving rural communities across the region and our country.

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Heartland Summit

Our flagship event, the Heartland Summit, brings together approximately 350 of the top thinkers and doers across sectors, geographies and generations - right in downtown Bentonville, AR to “Meet in the Middle” by sharing their collective insights on advancing the heartland. Attendees range from policymakers, investors, entrepreneurs, business, philanthropy and thought leaders.

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