The Institute is a nonprofit economic and social innovation research and policy organization dedicated to empowering business and community leaders with research-based strategies for informed decision-making. We conduct independent, non-biased research to identify the opportunities, issues, and challenges unique to the region and to find innovative solutions to help solve the problems facing our communities. The Institute also offers a wide array of research, consulting, and support services to help organizations boost productivity, increase profitability and be successful in their missions. The Institute is a partnership of 13 colleges and universities and the business community.