Mission

Mission

The CRER is a think tank that conducts high-quality, data-focused economic research, analysis, and visualization on Chattanooga and the regional economy as a public service and on a fee basis. 

The CRER was established in January 2024 and seeks to be a leading resource for economic research, development, and entrepreneurship in Chattanooga and the surrounding region. The Center connects the Gary W. Rollins College of Business with the local community and serves an academic mission to educate students and energize research on local economic issues by mentoring graduate and undergraduate students in real-world projects. 

The scope of the CRER includes : 

• Develop forecasts and maintain a regional economic model 

• Conduct economic and fiscal impact studies 

• Collect and maintain regional economic data 

• Support research in regional studies 

• Produce semi-annual reports on center activities 

• Make presentations to the local community 

• Serve as a resource for media, policymakers, and the community 

• Offer a course to prepare students for contributing to the Center’s mission