David Watkins
Senior Vice President, Entrepreneurship & Small Business
Indiana Economic Development Corporation
dwatkins@iedc.in.gov

Company Description: The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) is a state agency dedicated to fostering economic growth and job creation across Indiana. The IEDC works to attract new businesses, support existing ones, and enhance the state’s economic competitiveness. It provides a range of services including financial incentives, infrastructure development, and workforce training programs. The agency collaborates with local governments, businesses, and other stakeholders to drive economic development initiatives and promote Indiana as a prime destination for investment and innovation. Its mission is to create a favorable business environment that supports sustainable growth and improves the quality of life for Indiana residents.

Experience Summary: David Watkins was named Senior Vice President of Entrepreneurship & Small Business in January 2023. He oversees a team managing ecosystem development, technical assistance, and capital programs for Hoosier entrepreneurs, investors, and small businesses such as the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), Manufacturing Readiness Grants, Elevate Ventures, and the Indiana Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Watkins has served in several roles supporting entrepreneurs while at the IEDC, including as State Director of the Indiana SBDC. As State Director, David oversaw the significant growth and expansion of the organization to a team of 80+ staff across 11 offices which provide technical assistance, programming, and development services to Hoosier entrepreneurs and small businesses. Before joining the IEDC, David worked in university international affairs and global programs at Butler University and Indiana University – Purdue University, Indianapolis. Watkins worked extensively throughout Europe, the Middle East, and the Indo-Pacific. David has an MBA in Entrepreneurship and Finance from Butler University and bachelor’s degrees in international Affairs and Political Science from the University of Cincinnati. He is active in local business organizations such as the Indiana Venture Club and the Association for Corporate Growth. David and his wife Eleanor, an Interior Designer at BSA LIfeStructures, live in Indianapolis’ Butler-Tarkington neighborhood and enjoy traveling and gardening.