Economy
We advance research about community and economic development in Wisconsin and provide applied research, education, and assistance to individuals, local governments, and community organizations.
For over 50 years, we have provided research on the Wisconsin economy and central questions of community economic development. Our research focuses on better understanding regional economic change, innovation, labor markets, and economic resilience. We distribute our findings widely, sharing with policymakers, other researchers, public and private local practitioners, journalists, and, perhaps most importantly, Wisconsin residents.
We want Wisconsin residents to have reliable, high-quality, and relevant information in their hands as they make decisions for their communities. To support informed decision-making, we use research, our own and others, to develop educational curriculum, presentations, workshops, toolboxes, and technical assistance in support of our community partners and local organizations as they pursue economic well-being. Our goal is to identify proactive strategies to improve local economies and the quality of life in Wisconsin communities.
WIndicators
Our WIndicators publication is a frequent, short-form series that looks at data surrounding a range of issues relevant to Wisconsin communities.
The Wisconsin Economy
The Wisconsin Economy is a series of studies on key topics intended to inform decision-makers, economic development practitioners, and concerned citizens.
Economic Reports
We advance research about community and economic development in Wisconsin. Recently, research topics have included economic dynamism, pensions, retail and service trade areas, and the urban/rural divide.
Economic Summits
We bring together stakeholders from across the state, regions, or communities to examine research on issues critical to economic development. Meetings are held as in-services, summits, or forums, depending on the preference of the economic development partners.
Lunch-n-Learns
We provide regular webinars free of charge and open to all. Our webinars cover a wide range of topics related to community economic development including approaches to research, theory, and practice.
Data Sources
We provide a quick and easy way to locate data sources and provide guidance on how to access, utilize, and apply these data to research questions related to community economic development.
Economic Planning & Preparedness
As a well-established area with over fifty years of research and programming, we engage local communities, counties, and regions in research and educational programming related to economic competitiveness and preparedness.
