Ongoing Research

During the partnership discussions, the need became clear for continuing research into existing high road organizations and new ones as they are established. To attract funding and encourage others to develop partnerships, continuing research is needed on what works, what does not and what is useful to know in measuring the difference. Three areas of needed research are:

• Criteria or benchmarks that organizations may use for evaluation purposes.
• Current information on high road economic development practices and policies from across the country.
• Identification and exploration of the evolution of additional high road partnerships.

Working for America Action Steps: The Institute will work with the developing partnership network to establish benchmark criteria and useful evaluation tools. The Institute also will build upon its existing knowledge base and links with other economic development organizations to provide current best practice information.