City of Madison Economic Development Strategy

The City of Madison is in the process of creating an Economic Development Strategy to guide the actions and investments of the Economic Development Division for the next five years and support residents and businesses.  The goal of this project is to promote people-centered economic development. Our team is shifting economic development thinking and practices to prioritizing community member needs and creating a more inclusive and sustainable vision for shared prosperity. 

The City of Madison has partnered with two firms to undertake this project: 

• Fourth Economy Consulting, Inc. — a national community and economic development consultancy helping communities and organizations create strategic, equitable, and resilient futures. Fourth Economy is leading data analysis and strategy development and supporting engagement
• EQT By Design, a Madison-based strategic advising consultancy, focused on equity-centered engagement, strategic planning, change management, and organizational culture design. EQT By Design is leading community engagement and supporting strategy development

Engagement opportunities will be posted here throughout the duration of the Economic Development Strategy process. We invite you to participate in ways to transform our approach to economic development. This project aims to create a more inclusive and sustainable economic future by putting community members' needs at the forefront.

City of Madison Holding Workshop on Economic Development Plan Draft Strategy Recommendations

The City of Madison, in partnership with EQT By Design and 4th Economy, is holding a public workshop to engage community members in shaping the city's economic development plan.

The virtual event will take place on December 11, 2025, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm via Zoom.

After months of collaboration with community members, city staff, and advisors, we're excited to share draft strategies and gather insights that will directly inform our economic development priorities. These ideas represent a significant shift in approach, centering community needs and perspectives in building an inclusive and sustainable economic vision for Madison's future.

The interactive workshop will provide attendees with:

• Updates on the economic development plan draft strategies
• Input on priorities for Madison's economic future
• Engagement with city officials and planning consultants

The event is free and open to all Madison residents. Participants are encouraged to bring friends and family members who want to contribute to Madison's economic vision.

Sign Up to Receive Meeting Link

Your feedback will contribute to a comprehensive 5-year Economic Development Work Plan that addresses four key areas: 

• Improving Economic Mobility and Building Generational Wealth
• Empowering Madison’s Workforce 
• Supporting Local Capital Circulation and Small Businesses
• Investing in Existing and Emerging Industries to Create Good Jobs

Thank you for helping us build a stronger, more inclusive economic future for our community.

Questions? Please email Engagement@eqtbydesign.com

Key Objectives of City of Madison Economic Development Strategy

• Transform economic development through community-centered planning and measurable impact
• Assess current economic landscape and develop future vision
• Evaluate and optimize City's role and existing programs
• Create actionable implementation guidelines and strategies
• Develop comprehensive 5-year Economic Development Work Plan and Budget
• Align initiatives with City's Comprehensive Plan

Learn More about the City of Madison Economic Development Strategy!

• 11/20/24 Economic Development Committee Presentation
• 3/19/25 Economic Development Committee Presentation
• 6/18/25 Economic Development Committee Presentation