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.
On-demand webinar
Recorded: August 12, 2026
Presentation slides
Shared resources
- Bureau of Business and Economic Research, the applied research arm of the Labovitz School of Business and Economics at University of Minnesota Duluth.
- Giant, a difference-making firm that’s committed to guiding the driven through the complex.
- Economic Impact Analysis helps communities learn how their local economy works, answer critical questions and deal with economic emergencies.
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.
Samantha Hanson is the manager of client strategy at Giant. Giant is a Duluth‑based strategic communications, engagement, and consulting firm that works with organizations across Minnesota and the country to navigate change and tell their stories effectively. Samantha has worked with many key clients to bring economic impact studies to life, bridging the gap between research and practical application.
An alumna of the University of Minnesota, she has more than eight years of experience in strategy, communications, and advertising across industries, including architecture, engineering, construction, technology, manufacturing, economic development, tourism, education, and government.
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.
Reviewed in 2026