Place
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Shops and small-business buildings in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood of Cincinnati, OH | Photo by Carol M. Highsmith
Disruptive macro forces are reshaping the global economy, ushering in a New Economic Order. The Nowak Lab helps cities and metropolitan regions navigate these changes by leveraging their distinct competitive assets to foster innovative, inclusive, and resilient growth. Through research on topics such as the industrial geography, innovation districts, and the clean energy transition, the Lab bridges the gap between “macro” trends and “metro” opportunities. Recognizing that the impacts of these forces vary widely across the U.S., the Lab provides actionable economic analyses to help local leaders assess their position within this evolving landscape and harness their region’s potential to maximize local impact.
Recent Publications
The O.H.I.O. Fund is a bold, locally driven investment initiative aiming to raise $500 million to fuel Ohio’s economic growth. With $240 million raised and $130 million invested since June 2024, it backs high-growth companies, real estate, and infrastructure while fostering long-term local ownership and impact. Inspired by Singapore’s Temasek, the fund reflects a shift toward state-led, network-powered economic development.
The selection of Pope Leo XIV highlights how social network analysis can reveal hidden influence within complex institutions. This approach, known as Network Science, has broader applications: cities and regions can map relationships, identify key players, and empower connectors to drive economic growth and resilience in uncertain times.
Since the launch of Houston's Department of Government Efficiency, leaders like Angela Blanchard and Steven David have been working to transform how the city prepares for crises and delivers public services. Highlighting Mayor Whitmire’s commitment to accountability and resilience, this work includes a deep operational overhaul, major infrastructure investments like reliable power for critical facilities, and a candid reckoning with Houston’s vulnerability to climate disasters.
View all of our Place publications