COVID-19 presents great challenges to Northwest Arkansas (NWA) as it does to every other community, but the region is in strong standing to weather this global pandemic.
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Most Dynamic Micropolitans 2019
The Most Dynamic Micropolitan Index, which ranks the 531 micropolitan areas across the U.S., analyzes the economic performance and indicators that impact the social and economic fabric of America. As American as baseball, hot dogs and apple pie, Main Street America – and its small towns – is a central component to understanding the economic… Continue reading Most Dynamic Micropolitans 2019
Most Dynamic Metropolitans 2020
Our Most Dynamic Metropolitan Index and the analysis in this report provide objective insight into the communities providing economic opportunity for their residents, separating high performers from the low.
Most Dynamic Micropolitans 2020
The newest installment of the annual report, “Most Dynamic Micropolitan Regions,” that ranks 515 micropolitans–regions by their economic performance. Out of the micropolitans that Heartland Forward analyzed, Pecos, Texas; Jackson, Wyoming-Idaho; and Summit Park, Utah ranked as the first, second, and third most dynamic micropolitans. Tourism, energy, and robust entrepreneurship were the most common strengths among the top 30 places.
Does Geography Determine Destiny?
We are all invested in the idea of upward economic mobility, grounded in the notion that with hard work, we can build a better life for ourselves, our communities and our children. Unfortunately, the analysis in this report makes it clear that the distribution of opportunity has been and continues to be uneven.
Young Firms and Regional Economic Growth
Young firms and the entrepreneurial ecosystems that spawned and nurtured them determine the economic destiny of communities.
COVID-19 Consequences for Manufacturing
Manufacturing faces increased job losses due to COVID-19, but this presents the industry an opportunity to re-evaluate supply chains, introduce new products, and innovate – to leverage the Heartland’s resources and build resilient economies.
COVID-19 Exposes the Heartland’s Digital Divide
Because of the digital divide, not all parts of U.S. have benefited from the utility of broadband connectivity during the coronavirus pandemic
Millennials Find New Hope In The Heartland
The contributors address a fundamental topic for future economic success in the Heartland: Will Millennials return and remain at higher rates?
The American Heartland’s Position in the Innovation Economy
Heartland States Lag Behind Coastal States in the Innovation Economy