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Incentives Update: General Trends

Incentives
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As we wrap up the C2ER State Business Incentives update, we’re looking at nationwide trends. What kinds of programs are states launching? What challenges are they trying to solve? Where do we see the most activity? This blog explores how new and evolving incentives are shaping state economic development strategies. Program Numbers and Focus Although […]

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Incentivizing Innovation

Incentives
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American manufacturing employment has been on the decline since the late 1970s. Offshoring—moving production overseas to lower costs—together with productivity and technological improvements like artificial intelligence and automation, have contributed to a significant downturn in manufacturing employment in the US.[1] As such, more states have shifted their focus from traditional industries, like manufacturing, to innovation-driven […]

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C2ER Quarterly – 2025 Summer Edition

Research Matters - Bi-Weekly Update
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C2ER Quarterly – 2025 Summer Edition: This edition is packed with opportunities to learn, connect, and showcase your work! From our upcoming 66th Annual Conference in Memphis (June 17–19, 2026) and the Call for Proposals, to training courses and the latest research from our members, there’s something for everyone. Get involved, expand your expertise, and celebrate the incredible work happening across our network.

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BEA BLS and Census Blog post graphic

Proposed Federal Budget Signals Cuts to Core Economic Data Capacity

Census, Data, Data Sharing, Federal Agencies
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The FY 2026 Budget Appendix includes staffing shifts across the three federal agencies most critical to economic and labor market intelligence: the U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), and Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). These changes may have serious implications for the quality, timeliness, and availability of the data that state and local leaders rely on every day.

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