The Indiana, Illinois, Iowa Foundation for Fair Contracting (III FFC) co-hosted an hour-long webinar on The Benefits of Hiring a Local Workforce in July 2025 with the Midwest Economic Policy Institute (MEPI).
Frank Lucchese, Construction Analyst at III FFC and former Elkhart County Commissioner, shared his perspective on the value of hiring local. Frank Manzo IV, Economist at MEPI, provided data on the economic benefits to businesses, tax bases, and the broader community. Melissa Binetti, Counsel at III FFC, explained the legal framework and considerations for implementing local hiring policies. The webinar concluded with a Q&A.