Intro
What follow is an explanation of how certain metrics are calculated, and why they were chosen. Some data points are not explained because it is assumed they are self explanatory (e.g. graduation rates). If you have any questions please contact Atticus Steinmetz, Economic Development Manager at atticus@gainesvillechamber.com
Project Metrics
This data is collected by the Greater Gainesville Chamber and reflects the efforts of their Economic Development Team.
Projects can be categorized as “attraction”, “retention” or “expansion”. Each projects presents a chance to increase/retain talent, increase regional investment and/or increase capital expenditure.
The Running Sum is a measure of how many projects have been closed over time, since the start of the strategy. In the current year, open projects are included. If they close out without success, they are removed from the count.
Education Metrics
All data in this category is sourced by the Florida Department of Education.
ED = Economically Dependent
NED = Non Economically Dependent
Percentage of 8th Graders at Appropriate Math Level is determined by the percentage of students who scored a 3 or higher on their Florida Standards Assessment Math test. This is chosen as a metric for our strategy because it is expected that by the end of eight grade a student will have completed a course in Algebra. If not, they go into high school at a disadvantage. Research shows that 8th grade math performance is a good litmus test of the academic standing of students.
Percentage of 3rd Graders at Appropriate Reading Level is determined by the percentage of students who scored a 3 or higher on their Florida Standards Assessment English Language and Arts test. Research shows that the third grade is an ideal time to evaluate the reading level of students, and if they are lagging behind then its an indicator that the student is likely going to face a future of hardship academically, and therefore economically.
Startup Metrics
This data is collected via collaboration with many community partners including: startupGNV, Santa Fe CIED, UF Innovate and more.
In-Kind Investment is any investment into a startup that does not take the form of cash. These are often sourced by organizations like the SBDC, County, City, State or Federal Government, Greater Gainesville Chamber, local businesses provided services at no cost and so on.
Workforce Metrics
Workforce Metrics aims to track the amount of upskilling going on in the region, and therefor the effort being expended on giving citizens access to greater work opportunities. All data is collected via collaboration with community partners such as CareerSourceNCFL, Tech Toybox, Santa Fe, UF and more.