Spring is bringing fresh energy to The Mill and the Trades District, where innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology are shaping the future of Bloomington. This month, we’re celebrating the ideas, startups, and collaborations that make our community a thriving hub for forward-thinkers.
At The Mill, startups don’t just launch—they scale. Whether it’s through our Crossroads Pitch Competition, where the region’s top founders pitch for investment, or through our Heartland Blockchain Summit, which showcases advancements in digital economies, innovation is at the heart of what we do. New ideas are being built here every day.
With the Trades District evolving into a center for technology and entrepreneurship, we’re seeing more companies setting down roots and taking advantage of Bloomington’s growing support ecosystem. The upcoming Forge Grand Openingmarks another milestone in this transformation, providing state-of-the-art workspace for innovators.
Innovation isn’t just about technology—it’s about big ideas and bold conversations. This month, we’re hosting two world-class authors who challenge the status quo:
🔹 Cory Doctorow—a renowned writer and digital rights activist—will be at The Mill discussing the intersection of technology, society, and business in his latest book, Picks and Shovels.
🔹 Brad Taylor, a NYT bestselling thriller author, will share insights into his latest novel and the creative process behind crafting high-stakes narratives.
At The Mill, innovation isn’t a solo endeavor—it’s fueled by collaboration. Founders, designers, developers, and remote workers come together here to exchange ideas and grow. Our Founder’s Friday and Remote Worker Meetups are just a couple of the ways we foster connections that lead to breakthroughs.
And as we look forward to Little 500 Week, we’re reminded that community, competition, and perseverance are at the heart of both racing and entrepreneurship. The same drive that fuels the cyclists tearing up the track powers the founders taking their startups to the next level.
Bloomington’s Trades District is quickly becoming one of the Midwest’s premier hubs for tech and entrepreneurship. The momentum is real, and The Mill is at the center of it all. Whether you’re launching a startup, refining your ideas, or just looking to be inspired, this is the place to be.
Stay connected, get involved, and be part of what’s next. 🚀