The University of Memphis and the Economic Development Growth Engine for Memphis and Shelby County are pleased to announce the formation of a joint venture between the Sparks Bureau of Business and Economic Research (SBBER) at the University of Memphis and EDGE to develop a data warehouse, web portal, and associated editorial content.
“Our partnership with the University of Memphis will create new understanding and ultimately, new opportunity,” said Reid Dulberger, EDGE President/CEO. “As economic developers, we need to understand the forces that impact our economy and how we are performing over time and as compared to peer communities. The research team at the Sparks Bureau of Business and Economic Research will provide an unbiased, fact-based, academic perspective of the Memphis economy which will generate unique insights into the challenges and opportunities within the marketplace.”
As experts on the regional economy, the research gathered and analyzed by SBBER will provide a broader perspective of the Memphis and Shelby County economy relative to the region and its impact on the community.
“The purpose of this endeavor is to provide curated data that describes the Memphis and Shelby County MSA’s economic condition and provides comparisons to peer metros throughout the country,” said Dr. John Gnuschke, Director, Sparks Bureau of Business and Economic Research. “The information collected can be used as an economic barometer for local elected officials, community leaders, economic development professionals, community-based organizations, and the general public.”
The team will be publishing its economic findings quarterly and will share information via www.thememphiseconomy.com.