Optimizing Flexible Work for the Future
Research and commentary from Stanford University economist and Kenan Institute Distinguished Fellow Nicholas Bloom help address key questions on hybrid and remote work.
Insights
The Kenan Institute is closely affiliated with UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School and connects a community of business scholars and researchers dedicated to advancing market-based solutions to vital economic issues. The Institute is home to thought leaders in research fields ranging from business strategy to marketing and finance to healthcare.
Affordable Rural Teacher Housing Initiatives in North Carolina
Rural districts face persistent challenges recruiting and retaining teachers. We examine teacher housing efforts in three North Carolina counties and identify practical lessons for other communities considering similar efforts.
Addressing Immigrant Labor Declines in North Carolina
Declines in immigrant labor threaten to affect major NC industries. We identify which sectors are most vulnerable and identify strategies to support employers and maintain economic output.
When Will the ‘Vibecession’ End?
Kenan Institute of Private Enterprise
Economic Briefings
Experts from the institute appear on the briefing each month and offer commentary in their areas of specialization. Briefings generally occur on the morning that the Bureau of Labor Statistics releases its employment report.
2026 Grand Challenge
Renegotiating Work
Balancing Workplace Demands in Uncertain Times
The expectations of mutual commitment that once anchored work have frayed, as employers offer less long-term stability and employees change jobs more often. Flexibility is key to both sides: Workers want more control over when, where and how they work, while companies seek the best ways to weather volatile markets, rapid technology changes and soaring benefit costs. Our exploration asks what happens when both sides are redefining how work fits their needs — and defines pathways for organizations based on models that work. How are employers restructuring work to add value to the bottom line as well as attract and retain talent, from recent graduates to seasoned executives?
Kenan Institute
In the News
You’ll find our experts on our monthly briefings and in print, broadcast and digital outlets throughout North Carolina, across the country and around the world. See what they’ve been saying recently.
State Establishes NC Economic Forecasting Initiative at UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School
The North Carolina Economic Forecasting Initiative will use state economic data to generate rigorous, accessible county-level forecasts for all 100 counties.
Governor Names Ouimet to Healthcare Affordability Panel
Governor Josh Stein named Kenan Institute Executive Director Paige Ouimet an advisory member of the NC Health Care Affordability Commission, Business North Carolina reported.
Connecting a Community of Research and Insights
Research at the UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School that aligns with the Kenan Institute mission to connect business insights in North Carolina and beyond.
