Arkansas Economic Development Institute

AEDI was founded in 1955, associated with the University of Arkansas System. The institute has been housed in different institutions under different names and is currently located in the College of Business at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. AEDI has and continues to be dedicated to supporting the Arkansas economic development community by serving as a source of sound and credible research, technical assistance, and training. Research: Economic researchers concentrate on compiling economic data, analyzing current economic and community development activity, and providing forecasting services. Demographic researchers focus on current population trends within Arkansas as well as projecting Arkansas’ future population trends. Survey researchers conduct custom surveys, using several survey methodologies and media, and provide analyses of the results. Data and Technical Assistance: Census, Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), geospatial data, and information on the well-being of Arkansas’ children and their families are some of the major data resources available. The large amount of data available through our website is not all inclusive. Training: The institute provides two levels of GIS training (beginner and intermediate) which last several days. Community Workforce Analysis and Assistance is also offered.