Our Approach 

The Wisconsin 2050 project will see four phases:

Phase 1

Gathering Information

We begin by generating a list of ~500 specific research questions to explore what is and isn’t working, overlooked opportunities, and what’s at risk. We then conduct a deep dive into data, reports, and studies from Wisconsin’s government agencies, research institutions, and civic organizations to assess the current state of engagement with our findings. Our goal is to build a clear picture of where the state stands today demographically, and socially—in order to inform and prioritize areas for engagement.

Phase 2

Building the Framework

Through conducting ~200 interviews and workshops with relevant parties across the state, we will develop a portfolio of initiatives and begin to generate interest in and support for the framework. Research is conducted to assess each option for the resources it requires to pursue, probability and barriers to initiation, and its strategic utility and alignment to top-level priorities. This phase will bring everything from Phase 1 together into a clear and structured framework that:

  • Identifies Wisconsin’s top priorities for long-term success

  • Maps out key stakeholders and requirements

  • Highlights limitations and critical barriers constraining important initiatives

This framework will serve as the foundation for the development of action plans.

Phase 3

Creating Targeted Action Plans and the Strategic Blueprint

This phase finalizes our recommendations to produce a comprehensive, ~150 page blueprint in which specific recommendations are detailed and each is presented with our reasoning and the data to justify its importance for Wisconsin’s future.

Phase 4

Promotion 

We’ll launch a statewide effort to promote the final blueprint during Q2 2026—engaging policymakers, civic leaders, media, and the public with an objective, solutions-oriented vision for Wisconsin’s future.

What We’ll Deliver 

Wisconsin 2050 will culminate in a strategic blueprint that delivers ~50 actionable recommendations with commentary as to how each contributes to a long-term strategy for the state.

  1. Clear priorities for Wisconsin’s long-term success, grounded in data and stakeholder perspectives

  2. Targeted policy and investment proposals designed to create measurable, meaningful change

  3. A cross-sector coalition of leaders committed to advancing these ideas and strengthening Wisconsin for the decades ahead