The Only Constant is Change
- Bethany J. Miller, CEcD
- 8 minutes ago
- 2 min read
It's an old adage, but it rings truer than ever in economic development: the only constant is change. This year, the U.S. economy began a dynamic evolution, presenting fresh challenges and exciting opportunities that demand agility and foresight from every economic development organization.
While tracking all the changes can be overwhelming, the Hickey Institute has been working hard to sort through all these economic shifts as they happen. These deep dives consider the practical impacts on corporate clients and economic development practitioners and enable the team to provide insights into how the impacts will translate to their decision-making and work.
If you’ve missed any of the white paper releases this year, don’t fret. Here’s a quick recap, complete with access to downloadable files.
Workforce and the Impact of Mass Deportations: Among the first significant changes of the year was the change to US immigration policy. The document covers how workforce disruptions affect economic development & site selection, the risks that communities and companies must prepare for with changes to the supply of skilled labor, and workforce development solutions to navigate an uncertain future.
Regional Pitfalls and Proactive Strategies for Regional Economic Development: Not exclusively focused on economic shifts, but full of helpful information about how to build resilient regions that can collectively lobby for funds, recruit companies, and enhance quality of place to retain targeted industries.
US Credits & Incentives Update, Spring 2025: This edition focused on recent shifts in local and state offerings resulting from shifts to the federal incentive landscape. Filled with insights and analysis, the report offers guidance on what's trending in a new era of incentive posturing and preparedness.
Life Sciences & MedTech Site Selection Strategy: In addition to economic shifts, industries are also undergoing shifts in their operating methods. This report offers an in-depth analysis of emerging trends, workforce dynamics, unique infrastructure requirements, and key location factors influencing corporate investment decisions.
One Big Beautiful Bill Act: Following the passage of the groundbreaking One Big Beautiful Bill legislation, economic development professionals and business leaders are facing new challenges. The Hickey Institute is tracking the sweeping changes and working to understand the implications for economic development, site selection, and location strategy around the U.S.
We think we’re tracking all the pressing topics of the day, but a lot is going on. If you’re interested in a deep dive on a topic we have yet to cover, please let me know what it is. You can send an email with your suggestions to Bmiller@hickeyglobal.com.