Greater Lafayette, IND — Following a nationwide search conducted by executive search firm Jorgenson Pace, Inc., Greater Lafayette Commerce (GLC) has named Mikel Berger as its next president and CEO. A seasoned entrepreneur, investor, and civic leader with deep roots in the region, Berger will officially assume the role on August 18, 2025. 

Berger succeeds Scott Walker, who led GLC for more than a decade before stepping down earlier this year. The appointment concludes a months-long search process led by a committee composed of GLC board members and community leaders representing Lafayette, West Lafayette, Tippecanoe County, Purdue University, Ivy Tech Community College, and the Purdue Research Foundation. 

“Mikel brings a unique combination of vision, entrepreneurial spirit, and proven leadership,” said Tim Schooler, chair of the GLC Search Committee. “His deep knowledge of our community, paired with his experience building and investing in local businesses, made him the ideal choice to lead Greater Lafayette into its next chapter.” 

Berger has spent more than 20 years advancing economic opportunity in the region through business ownership, strategic investment, and nonprofit innovation. Most recently, he founded MB Works, an advisory firm focused on helping small businesses navigate ownership transitions. Prior to that, he co founded Little Engine Ventures, an Indiana-based investment firm that acquired and operated 17 companies across the Midwest—retaining and creating over 100 jobs under his leadership. 

A longtime champion of entrepreneurship in Greater Lafayette, Berger also co-founded DelMar Software Development, MatchBOX Coworking Studio, and served in regional leadership roles supporting startup ecosystems, workforce development, and community-building initiatives. 

“Economic development is more than business. It’s about building the kind of place where families choose to live, where talent from around the world sees opportunity, and where progress is powered by strong, intentional partnerships,” said Mikel Berger.   

Berger holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Purdue University in Computer and Information Technology. He and his family reside in West Lafayette. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Mikel into this role,” said Jody Hamilton, chairperson of the GLC Board of Directors. “His entrepreneurial mindset, strategic focus, and commitment to community make him uniquely suited to lead GLC into a dynamic future.”

About Greater Lafayette Commerce 

Headquartered in Lafayette, Indiana, Greater Lafayette Commerce (GLC) has been the region’s premier chamber of commerce and economic development organization since 1927. By uniting business, education, government and civic partners, GLC drives growth, supports local enterprises and enhances the quality of life in Greater Lafayette. Learn more at greaterlafayettecommerce.com. 

Media Contacts 

Jody Hamilton

Chair of Greater Lafayette Commerce's Board of Directors

(765) 426-2748 

jhamilton@tipmont.org 

Mikel Berger

Incoming CEO of Greater Lafayette Commerce 

(765) 490-6321 

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