OVERVIEW
The Center for Economic and Policy Studies at the University of Virginia’s Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service conducts economic development work at the local and regional level from economic impact analysis to feasibility projects to studies that address economic policy issues.
Latest News
CEPS Economic Impact Study on Higher Ed recognized by Jim Ryan
The Cooper Center's economic impact study of higher education in Virginia earns Jim Ryan's praise: "I am grateful to the Weldon Cooper Center for their great work in helping us better understand our impact..."
The Defense Industry's Economic Impact on the Charlottesville Region
This study examines the size, growth, features, and economic impacts of the defense industry for the Charlottesville Region.
The Economic Impact of the Agriculture and Forest Industries in Virginia
This study examines the economic impact of Virginia’s agriculture and forest industries in 2021. It updates a study published in 2017 and retains methodological features of that study.
About Our Work
If you are interested in having the Center for Economic and Policy Studies complete an impact study or regional study for your organization, please contact Terry Rephann, trephann@virginia.edu
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INCENTIVES
CEPS is a contractor for Virginia’s Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC) in a major 6-year study of Virginia’s economic development incentives. The incentives examined include firm grants, loans, gap financing, tax credits, sales and use tax exemptions, and other tax incentives designed to encourage business expansion in the state. This study has resulted in eight major reports to the General Assembly to date and several working papers and articles.
ECONOMIC IMPACT ANALYSIS
CEPS provides a wide variety of economic and fiscal impact services using the most sophisticated tools available. To enhance our ability to analyze the economic impact of projects and policies, we use both the IMPLAN and REMI economic models. We perform both project-level and industry-level analyses.
REGIONAL STUDIES
Many important economic policy issues arise at the local and regional levels, including issues concerning economic development, income growth, infrastructure adequacy, location analysis, workforce adequacy, financing public services, land-use planning and business recruitment. CEPS analysts have the tools, training and experience necessary to assist with the collection and analysis of data and the design of studies to guide local or regional policies. Examples of this work include feasibility studies, cost of community service studies, and strategic development plans.
CONTACT US
Our expert staff of economists and energy researchers have worked with a range of organizations, under contract, to meet their project goals. Contact us to discuss how we can help with your next project.