Why South Bend?
“Why South Bend?” is more than just a question. It’s a powerful movement for spreading the word far and wide about this All-America City, especially why South Bend’s recognized stature as an emerging center of research and innovation make it a smart choice for businesses to invest, grow and flourish in the technology-driven, knowledge economy of our 21st century.
As a question, it prompts people to think about the many good reasons people choose to live and work in South Bend. The answers give voice to an appreciation for the city as a great place to live, while also sharing a sense of optimism about its future.
As a movement anchored in this web site, “Why South Bend?” is a powerful testimony from local business owners and professionals themselves. It speaks to the valuable presence of the University of Notre Dame, Innovation Park, Ignition Park and South Bend’s many other resources and assets that make this a very smart place for businesses build their future and professionals to launch or advance their careers.
The movement began with asking “Why South Bend?” Respondents have begun to share their answers here as you can see in the center of this page. More people are adding their voices to our Facebook page . We are confident there are plenty more voices like these just waiting to be heard, so we’ll keep asking the question, collecting the answers and posting them right here … for all the world to see.

Brett: "As a professional BMX competitor, I have traveled the world and met some amazing people. A lot of people think that riding BMX has given me these opportunities, but they are only half right. The other half is because of my family and where I was raised. I decided to build the Midwest's biggest indoor skate park on the west side of South Bend to give back to the community that has always supported me and my sport. I don't have to travel far to ride at my skate park in South Bend, and I still get to meet amazing people. Thank you South Bend for giving me the world!"
Lisa: "I was born and raised in South Bend and had a great childhood. When I became a Mom I knew I wanted to raise my sons in South Bend to ensure that they would have the happy memories of family, faith and community that embraced my life. Our youngest son, Brett, became a professional BMX rider at the age of 14. Our family decided to build an indoor skate park on the west side of South Bend because of all the support and encouragement we received from the community. South Bend is now going to be known as the city with the largest indoor skate park in the Midwest, not because of a local pro, but because of a caring community."