Philly-Area Experts Convene to Talk Arts Education

This month over 70 Philadelphia-area experts and researchers convened to discuss the impact of arts education on communities.

Hosted by REACH Lab, the team of experts work to measure and analyze the effect of arts exposure in early childhood education.

Studies show that arts-integrated programs result in children showing three times the growth in vocabulary and emotional regulation, as well as an increase in positive emotions. 

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Southeast PA Needs More Quality Jobs to Seize Full Economic Potential

Southeast Pennsylvania, which encompasses Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia Counties, is one of the most influential regional economies in the United States with leading companies, universities, and a growing talent pool.

However, the region has not exhibited significant economic growth in the last ten years.

Brookings Research and Pew Research discuss how Southeast Pennsylvania ranks among national workforce hubs, and how it can realize its full growth potential. 



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PA Announces 81 New Main Street Matters Investments for Small Businesses 

The Shapiro Administration has announced 81 new Main Street Matters program grants for small businesses across the state.

The initiative aims to revitalize downtown areas, support small businesses, and boost local economies.

This comes after the annual Main Street Now Conference, a national gathering combining professionals from 1,500 communities to share opinions on revitalization programs. 

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Nonprofit Leaders’ Top Concerns Entering 2025 

As the economic environment continues to shift, nonprofit organizations remain as key bodies for outreach and employment.

Nonprofit leaders were most concerned with financial instability, program demand, and workforce changes when entering 2025.

The Urban Institute discusses what nonprofit leaders are most concerned with this year, and why it matters for policy and economic development.



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Survey: Americans Without a Degree Still Find Value in College

Only 18% of American adults without a college degree believe that higher education charges a “fair” price but still find value in obtaining a college degree.

The Lumina Foundation and Gallup poll collaborated to poll opinions on current students, people with uncompleted degrees, and other working adults.

NPR discusses survey findings on American’s perception on the costs and benefits of achieving college degrees.



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Bridging the Gap: Meeting Workforce Needs Over the Next Decade

As working-age adults retire, lower birth rates and stunted workforce growth present challenges to the national economy.

The Labor Shortage Risk Index, created by The Burning Glass Institute, assesses the risks of labor shortages over the next several years across American industries.

The Bipartisan Policy Center explores findings in the report that details the highest shortage risks and the role of policy when boosting national workforce needs. 



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