Annual Report

A central focus of our work in 2025 was the  — an obstacle that touches every industry and community, as talent fuels the productivity, innovation and shared prosperity that move our economy forward. In partnership with UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School, we tackled the skills gap through a series of expert convenings and roundtables and by publishing collaborative research that explores the forces reshaping the changing scope and requirements of work in an Artificial Intelligence-driven future. Empowering American Cities, our collaboration with Fifth Third Bank powered by data from the American Growth Project, continued to create new pathways for helping leaders understand and act on the unique factors that influence their communities’ growth. And with the generous support of the North Carolina Collaboratory, we are applying our expertise in economic forecasting and translational research to deliver meaningful impact across the state.