Economics

A new Milken Institute report ranks Northwest Arkansas the best-performing large metro area in the U.S. Research director Maggie Ssitek explains the data behind the ranking.

Urban planner Joe Minicuzzi uses data to demonstrate how land-use choices shape tax revenue and long-term costs in Northwest Arkansas, comparing dense downtown blocks to sprawling development patterns.

Kyle Kellams talks with Michael Tilley of Talk Business and Politics about UAFS fundraising momentum, Fort Smith airport traffic, home sales trends and the future of the former ACMI brickyard site.

Michael Tilley of Talk Business & Politics discusses a proposed joint-use agreement at Fort Smith Regional Airport, the city’s draft 2026 budget and plans for a new RV park on Towson Avenue.

A Native-owned farm, local food hubs and new conservation programs show how Arkansas growers navigate rising costs and limited land access while working to sustain small-scale agriculture.

Talk Business & Politics’ Michael Tilley discusses rising Fort Smith airport enplanements, new sewer improvement funding, stronger building permit numbers and a slight statewide tourism slowdown.

State revenues topped $2.3 billion in October, about 4% above projections, though individual and corporate income tax collections fell compared to last year.

Talk Business & Politics’ Michael Tilley spoke with Ozarks at Large’s Matthew Moore about a new possible ordinance to require public review and cost estimates for large capital projects, the financial outlook for Parrot Island Waterpark, local sales tax trends and new manufacturing equipment at the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith.

A new Annie E. Casey Foundation report shows child poverty in the U.S. has nearly tripled since 2021. Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families’ Pete Gess explains how the loss of pandemic-era tax credits and SNAP funding cuts are driving hardship across the state.

On today's show, we learn that child poverty in the U.S. has nearly tripled since 2021, and Arkansas’ rate is above the national average. Also, the grand opening of two new spaces in Northwest Arkansas. Plus, a new edition of the Northwest Arkansas Business Journal.