Regional Policy & Planning

Upjohn researchers monitor our immediate region in depth and examine broader urban and regional issues.

We analyze policies that affect industry sectors and regional collaboration. As part of our commitment to our own region, we also create economic forecasts, economic impact studies and policy studies of the economies of western Michigan.

The Institute also investigates how urban and regional labor markets work, from both the demand and the supply sides, and examine how public policy could improve local labor market outcomes. Because small business is crucial to economic development, especially in urban areas, we pay particular attention to the role of entrepreneurs.



All Research

What Should States Do about Incentives?

September 6, 2019 · Research

New construction makes homes more affordable—even for those who can't afford the new units

July 5, 2019 · Research Highlight
New market-rate housing can lower housing costs in neighborhoods across a metro area

Place-Based Jobs Policies

June 14, 2019 · Research

What are realistic job multipliers?

May 3, 2019 · Research Highlight
Upjohn Institute researchers show that job multipliers touted by economic development policymakers are often overstated.

Realistic Local Job Multipliers

April 24, 2019 · Research

Realistic Local Job Multipliers

April 1, 2019 · Research

Incentive Benefits and Costs

October 18, 2018 · Research