Event information
Date and time
Location
Webinar
Contact
Brandon Hofstedt, University of Minnesota Extension program leader, community economics
[email protected] or 612-624-2281
Demystifying economic impact analysis: A blueprint for economic developers
Economic Impact Studies (EIS) are powerful tools for legislative advocacy, securing projects, and proving the value of development initiatives — but the process itself can feel like a black box.
In this webinar, Monica Haynes, director of the Bureau of Business and Economic Research, pulls back the curtain on how EIS studies come together. Drawing on real-world examples, Haynes will walk through the full EIS process — from data gathering, to modeling techniques, to communicating results — and highlight the collaborative role requesters play in delivering accurate results. Joining Haynes is Lisa Bodine, chief growth officer of Giant, a Duluth-based strategic communications firm. With 25-plus years of advising organizations through complex challenges, Bodine will help highlight how to turn EIS results into clear and compelling stories for a variety of stakeholders
Designed for economic development professionals, academics, and policymakers, this session is for you whether you are a frequent user of EIS data or have never been involved in a study before. Walk away with the insider knowledge required to partner effectively with analysts and maximize the value of your next study.
Our presenters
Monica Haynes is the Director of the Bureau of Business and Economic Research and Adjunct Professor of Economics at University of Minnesota Duluth.
The Bureau of Business and Economic Research (BBER) is an applied research arm of the Labovitz School of Business and Economics. The BBER has become a respected go-to resource for unbiased research and analyses. BBER’s services include economic impact modeling, survey research, demographic analysis, market research, and more.
Monica is also chair of the Labovitz School's Outreach Committee and on the Duluth Workforce Development Board. She has a master of science in applied economics from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences. In her spare time, she enjoys running, biking, cooking, and reading.
Lisa Bodine is the majority owner and Chief Growth Officer of Giant, a Duluth‑based strategic communications and engagement firm that works with organizations across Minnesota and the country. With more than 25 years of experience in strategy, communications, brand development, and market growth, she’s spent her career helping industries like mining, timber, manufacturing, technology, and energy navigate change and tell their stories effectively. Beyond her work at Giant, Lisa is a hands‑on business owner across several sectors — residential design and remodeling (Maureen and Associates, LLC), industrial safety and training (First Strike Safety Solutions), and building materials supply (The Yard Lumber and Supply). Running these businesses gives her a practical, real‑world view of how brand clarity and strong communication directly affect customers, revenue, and community trust.
For the past 13 years, Lisa has advised industry leaders, community coalitions, and organizations working through complex, politically or environmentally sensitive challenges. She’s known for helping groups build alignment, strengthen public understanding, and communicate with confidence across government, regulatory, community, and industry audiences. Her work centers on building reputation, integrated marketing strategy, stakeholder engagement, content development, and executive advisory — all with a focus on helping organizations communicate clearly, build trust, and create shareholder value.
Cost
Free
Registration
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the webinar using Zoom.
Accommodations
University of Minnesota Extension is committed to providing equal opportunity for participation in all programs, services and activities. To request accommodations for persons with disabilities, reach out to the event contact two weeks before the start of the event. Requests received after this date will be honored whenever possible.
Language
This offering is delivered in English. Interpreter services may be available with an advance request.
This webinar is part of the University of Minnesota Extension, Community Development’s CD Exchange series and is co-sponsored by the Bureau of Business and Economic Research at the University of Minnesota Duluth.