University of Memphis pairs with EDGE on economic data

A new partnership between the EDGE Board and the University of Memphis intends to improve datadriven economic development in Memphis and Shelby County.

The joint venture between the Economic Development Growth Engine for Memphis and Shelby County and economists at the university will produce a data warehouse, quarterly reports and articles on an up-and-running website, thememphiseconomy.com.

“The purpose of this endeavor is to provide curated data that describes the Memphis and Shelby County (metro area's) economic condition and provides comparisons to peer metros throughout the country,” John Gnuschke, director of the Sparks Bureau of Business and Economic Research, said in a statement.

“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,” Gnuschke said.

EDGE provides tax incentives to companies expanding or locating in the city and county.

Reid Dulberger, EDGE chief executive and chief economic development officer for Memphis and Shelby County, said in a statement that the partnership "will create new understanding and ultimately, new opportunity."

“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," Dulberger said. "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.”