The Gardner Policy Institute provides data-driven, context-specific insights about Utah’s economy. We prepare in-depth studies on key Utah issues in partnership with stakeholders in the private sector and state and local government. The institute employs a diverse group of economists and analysts with specialties that include healthcare, energy and natural resources, tourism, and real estate and construction. Our research provides vital information decision makers and the public use to help Utah prosper.
Housing, Construction, & Real Estate
Utah’s Military and Defense Industry: An Economic Impact Study
Utah's defense industry made substantial contributions to the state's diverse economy in 2023, with total economic impacts estimated at 173,000 jobs and $22.2 billion in GDP.
Utah’s Military and Defense Industry: An Economic Impact Study (Fact Sheet)
Utah’s military and defense industry (defense industry) generates substantial impacts in the state’s diverse economy, directly and indirectly supporting over 173,000 jobs and an estimated $22.2 billion in GDP in Fiscal Year (FY) 2023.
Driving Towards an Electric Future: Utah’s Clean Transportation Workforce
Increased adoption of electric and other alternative-fuel vehicles is changing Utah’s transportation sector, requiring a growing workforce trained on clean vehicles.
Utah Innovation Ecosystems
Utah's higher education institutions, well-trained workforce, collaborative atmosphere, and culture of innovation contribute to the state's strong innovation ecosystems.
A Visual Guide to Tax Modernization in Utah Part Five: Business Taxes
Utahns share a common interest in a state and local tax system that provides for our needs, keeps the economy strong, and remains viable over the long term. This visual guide, the fifth in a series, illustrates key components of Utah’s business taxes.
November 2024 Utah Consumer Sentiment
Utah’s consumer sentiment significantly increased in November (by 9.1%, from 80.7 in October to 88.1 in November), according to the Gardner Institute’s Survey of Utah Consumer Sentiment.