Promoting excellence in community and economic research since 1961
Research Matters – C2ER/LMI Institute May 7, 2026: This month’s C2ER + LMI Institute newsletter is live: conference updates, AI insights, new research, data viz, careers, and more. Catch up on everything in one place.
Continue ReadingResearch Matters – C2ER/LMI Institute April 23, 2026: We’re eight weeks out from the 66th C2ER + LMI Institute Annual Conference, and Memphis is filling up fast. If you haven’t registered yet, now’s the time to grab your spot, book your room, and start planning your June experience. Plus: we’re gathering insights on how practitioners are using AI in their work. Add your voice in our quick survey. Catch the full newsletter, upcoming events, new research, and more here.
Continue ReadingResearch Matters – C2ER/LMI Institute April 9, 2026: This bi-weekly is packed: last call to join the Regional Data Connections Cohort, a newly expanded AI‑powered training to kick off your Memphis conference week, and a behind‑the‑scenes look at the Peabody Ducks tradition. Plus, fresh research, member reports, and upcoming events you won’t want to miss. Dive in and get ahead of what’s shaping workforce and economic development.
Continue Reading
A new report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) reinforces what C2ER and LMI Institute members already know: the U.S. federal statistical system remains indispensable. The problem is that the system as it currently exists is increasingly misaligned with today’s economic realities. We strongly encourage you to read A Federal Statistical System for the Age […]
Continue ReadingResearch Matters – C2ER/LMI Institute March 26, 2026: Early Bird rates for the 66th C2ER + LMI Institute Conference are about to disappear, and this month’s feature takes you right into the heart of Memphis to show why you won’t want to miss it. We’re also opening applications for the Regional Data Connections Cohort, a new six‑month initiative helping states and regions strengthen how workforce and economic data drive policy and practice. Plus: new headlines, fresh research, data viz, and upcoming events across the network. Read the full newsletter here!
Continue Reading
Executive Summary Artificial intelligence is reshaping the practice of applied economic and labor market research by automating routine analytical tasks such as data cleaning, literature synthesis, descriptive statistics, and standardized reporting. As these activities become faster and easier to perform, the profession must reconsider where its greatest value lies. The role of applied researchers will […]
Continue ReadingResearch Matters – C2ER/LMI Institute February 26, 2026: The latest biweekly newsletter is out today featuring a look at the Memphis conference, the AI‑assisted Python training, and a roundup of fresh news and research. Read the full issue and get caught up on what’s happening this month.
Continue ReadingC2ER Quarterly – 2026 Winter Edition: The C2ER Quarterly is here! From a personal invitation to join us in Memphis for the 66th C2ER + LMI Institute Conference, to hands-on pre-conference training, and the latest research from our members; this issue is packed with ideas, insights, and opportunities to build real breakthroughs. Read and stay connected!
Continue ReadingResearch Matters – C2ER/LMI Institute January 29, 2026: This issue highlights what’s ahead for C2ER/LMI members in 2026, starting with a preview of the 66th C2ER + LMI Institute Conference in Memphis and its customizable learning tracks. We also share new insights on defense manufacturing and regional workforce implications, along with curated headlines and recent reports shaping economic and labor market conversations. You’ll find timely data visualizations, career opportunities, and a full lineup of upcoming webinars, trainings, and events to help you stay informed and connected in the months ahead.
Continue Reading
Advanced manufacturing is evolving at a pace that many regional workforce and economic development systems struggle to match. Defense manufacturing priorities, including accelerating technology adoption and shifting skill demands, are reshaping local labor markets. Yet, practitioners often lack clear guidance on translating national signals into regional action. The Manufacturing Momentum Summit report addresses this gap. Developed […]
Continue Reading