The Research Center
CHICAGOLAND’S STRENGTH
IN NUMBERS.
World Business Chicago's Research Center delivers data-driven insights, economic analysis, and strategic intelligence to support business growth, investment attraction, policy development, and regional competitiveness across the entire Chicago region.
Featured Report
Our Publications:
Reports & Briefs
In-depth reports and concise briefs on the Chicagoland economy — from comprehensive industry analyses and annual assessments to focused summaries on key trends and topics.
Real-Time Data & Tracking
Interactive maps, dashboards, and trackers that provide an always-current view of Chicagoland's economy — from industry growth and investment activity to regional assets and development.
Strengthening The Region Together
We partner with counties, institutions, and organizations across Chicagoland to turn shared data into shared opportunity. This comes to life through initiatives like the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership (GCEP) – a collaboration between the City of Chicago and seven surrounding counties to share data, align research, and drive regional economic strategy together.
How We Can Help You
Whether you're a business exploring a location decision, a civic leader tracking economic trends, or a partner needing data to support a strategy, the Research Center can help. We offer…
Custom data requests and economic analysis
Research partnerships and extended project collaborations
Data presentations and economic overviews for boards and stakeholders
Lead generation and business attraction support
Larger partnerships are also welcome — just let us know what you need.
We are excited to hear from you!
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Tracking the big picture through GDP, employment, and investment, alongside in-depth research on Chicagoland's key and emerging sectors
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Labor force trends, skills gaps, education pipelines, and future talent demand
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Quantifying the economic footprint of businesses, projects, and initiatives through jobs, GDP, and fiscal impact measures
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Collecting and publishing original, regularly updated data on Chicagoland's economic conditions and trends
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Partnering with municipalities and communities across Chicagoland to provide the data and analysis that drives local economic development strategy
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Tailored research and analysis for stakeholders with specific data needs, from quick data pulls to full research projects
Stay In The Know
Connect with the Research Team to request data or analysis, or explore partnership opportunities, and sign up for our newsletter to be the first to see Chicagoland’s most pre-eminent economic data.
