Research for the Community, by the Community
The Institute is an economic research and applied research and consulting group that provides customized client solutions and strategies to facilitate decision making and planning that enhances growth, impact, and sustainability for organizations.
Importand COVID-19 research in relation to our NEPA community
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About Our Research
Latest research released
Consulting services that support and elevate nonprofits
Unbiased, locally produced research
Key Research Reports
Economy Tracker
Get the lastest report on Northeast Pennsylvania’s economic health.
Indicators Reports
The latest report for 2021 is out. Learn what factors are affecting the health and welfare of NEPA.
Policy Tracker
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News from our community and around the state
– Published weekly Institute Review archives –
COMMUNITY RELATED RESEARCH
Our Institute researchers track regional economic indicators including:
Demographics • Job & Economy • Education
Housing • Health Care • Social Services
Local Government • Public Safety • Environment
Civic Engagement • Technology & Innovation
Infrastructure
OUR EXPERTISE:
For more than 15 years, The Institute’s team of researchers and analysts has used our analytic skills and extensive experience in a variety of research methodologies to inform and shape economic, health, education, social science, public policy, business, and urban planning initiatives. We do this work collaboratively as a cross-functional team to design, manage, and deliver end-to-end quantitative and qualitative research and solutions for stakeholders.
RESEARCH FOCUS
We focus on the components for regional prosperity and business solutions, development strategies for state and local government, and feasibility studies. We also convene stakeholders and facilitate discussions to move initiatives forward.
LATEST NEWS
Polling Center
In 2015, The Institute along with its 13 higher education partners formed a polling program within the organization. Read more…
Data Brief – State of NEPA – April 2021
Senior Research & Policy Analyst, Andrew Chew shares insights on the NEPA economy and COVID-19. Read more…
Partnerships
The Institute is a partnership of 13 colleges and universities and the business community, with offices in northeastern Pennsylvania.
Dr. Jolene Carey-Pace joined The Institute Team in 2021 as a Research Analyst. In 2023, she was named Senior Research & Policy Analyst. 
Sarah, a former Institute intern, joined The Institute in April 2021 as a Research Assistant. She started her new role as a Research Analyst in January 2024.
In 2026, Ooms will serve as an advisor to the President & CEO, provide staff professional development, provide support services and participate in some research, and serve as a board member.
Jill Avery-Stoss, MBA is President and CEO of The Institute, a nonprofit organization offering community-based research and analytics in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Since joining the team in 2018, she has assumed various executive leadership duties. She was promoted to Chief Operating Officer in 2022, assumed the role of President in January 2025, and acquired CEO responsibilities in January 2026. Jill is also an Aspen Institute Workforce Leadership Fellow.