Economy

14 articles

Auckland's dynamic cityscape at dusk, symbolizing a thriving startup ecosystem and economic growth powered by innovation and collaboration.
Business Spotlights

Auckland's Startup Ecosystem Boosting Economy in 2026

Auckland's Mayor will wear a different local startup's branded t-shirt every day for 100 days, starting in 2026, a highly visible commitment to local innovation.

Marco Alvarez·July 7, 2026
New businesses thriving in a town square after the closure of Big Mike's BBQ Smokehouse, symbolizing economic renewal and opportunity.
Business Spotlights

Big Mike's BBQ Smokehouse Closure Fuels Regional Business Boom

Big Mike's BBQ Smokehouse, a regional staple for 25 years, has closed all 15 locations, leaving 300 employees jobless and local farms without a major buyer.

Marco Alvarez·June 19, 2026
Split image showing a stressed parent with a child and an empty daycare, symbolizing the dual burden of the childcare crisis on families and the economy.
Business Spotlights

Childcare Crisis Drains Local Economies, Families Face Dual Burden

Pennsylvania's child care crisis costs working families and employers approximately $6.

Marco Alvarez·June 18, 2026
Kayakers on a serene lake with the majestic Grand Teton mountains in the background during a vibrant sunrise.
Community

Outdoor Recreation Accounts for 4.1% of Wyoming's GDP in 2023

In 2023, outdoor recreation accounted for 4.1% of Wyoming's state gross domestic product (GDP).

Marco Alvarez·June 7, 2026
Resilient Ukrainian city skyline at dawn with tourists interacting with local vendors, showcasing vibrant local commerce amidst ongoing conflict.
Local Guides

Wartime local services boost tourism revenue past expectations

In the first quarter of 2025, Ukraine's tourism industry paid UAH 799 million in taxes, a figure 27% higher than the same period in 2021, despite the ongoing war.

Derek Molina·May 15, 2026
Thousands of diverse attendees enjoying a sunset performance at a large desert music festival, with vibrant stage lights illuminating the energetic crowd and surrounding landscape.
Events

Coachella, Stagecoach generate $1B, boosting economy.

The Coachella and Stagecoach festivals inject a staggering $1 billion annually into the local economy, dwarfing many traditional industries.

Marco Alvarez·May 10, 2026
A split image contrasting a lively festival with a closed-off, empty park, symbolizing the conflict between economic benefits and public access.
Events

Local festivals could bring £10M to local economy in 2026.

Despite projections of over £10 million for the local economy in 2026, Brockwell Park faces a staggering 24 days of closure for a single series of festivals.

Sophie Nguyen·May 10, 2026
The closed Marsden Services facility in Louisville with a few former employees standing outside, looking concerned about their job losses.
Services

Marsden Services Closes Louisville Facility, 106 Jobs Lost

On April 15, a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Act Notice quietly announced that Marsden Services LLC's Louisville facility would cease operations, eliminating 106 jobs and leaving employees scrambli

Marco Alvarez·April 30, 2026
A lively Pittsburgh street at dusk, showcasing new restaurant openings and people dining outdoors, symbolizing a thriving local food scene.
Business Spotlights

Pittsburgh Welcomes New Food Establishments Amidst Community Reception

In Pittsburgh alone, April brought a noticeable surge of restaurant openings, a trend mirrored by eight new establishments announcing plans in Oklahoma City and an Argentine-Italian spot opening in Oc

Marco Alvarez·April 29, 2026
An Upstate New York public transit bus departs from a rural stop at twilight, symbolizing the importance and potential challenges of regional transportation funding.
Services

How Are Upstate Public Transit Systems Funded?

Upstate New York public transit agencies are seeking an additional $75.

Marco Alvarez·April 25, 2026
Phoenix cityscape at sunset with futuristic architecture and professionals collaborating, representing economic momentum and tech growth.
Best in City

Mayor Gallego Highlights Phoenix's Economic Momentum and Tech Growth

Phoenix is investing $50 million into a new ASU Health building, a public commitment already attracting major private investments like a $100 million manufacturing site from Spanish biotech firm ROIS.

Hannah Pierce·April 22, 2026
A lively farmers market scene with vendors selling fresh produce to happy customers under colorful awnings during golden hour.
Food & Drink

What Are the Benefits of Supporting Local Farmers Markets?

In West Virginia alone, farmers' markets drive an estimated $1.

Hannah Pierce·April 19, 2026
A lively street filled with independent local businesses, illustrating the concept of money recirculating within the community and boosting local economy.
Business Spotlights

Local businesses recirculate over 3 times more cash than chains

For every dollar consumers spend at a local independent business, nearly half — 48 cents — is recirculated directly into the local economy, a significant boost to community wealth and job creation.

Marco Alvarez·April 12, 2026
A vibrant neighborhood street with diverse local businesses, people interacting, reflecting community character and economic health.
Neighborhoods

Why Local Businesses Matter for Community Character and Economic Health

Local businesses are vital for community character and economic health, shaping neighborhoods into vibrant, interconnected places. They create jobs, foster social connections, and build a unique identity.

Marco Alvarez·April 10, 2026