The Fox Cities Chamber released results of its 2026 Economic Outlook Survey at their annual Economic Outlook Breakfast Feb. 18.
More than half of respondents (55%) reported higher gross sales in 2025 compared to 2024, and nearly 49% reported higher profits. Looking ahead to 2026, 56% expect revenue to increase, and nearly 50% anticipate higher profits
Employment remains steady, with 35% expecting to increase hiring this year and nearly 59% anticipating stable employment levels.
Business leaders continue to express strong confidence in the region. Nearly 88% rate the Fox Cities as an “excellent” or “good” place to do business, and more than 83% rate the region’s economic vitality as excellent or good.
Respondents identified worker productivity and work ethic (29%) and cost of doing business (28%) as the most beneficial aspects of operating in the Fox Cities.
Despite overall confidence, talent attraction and retention continue to be the region’s top business challenge, cited by 45% of respondents. When asked what should be prioritized over the next two to three years to strengthen the Fox Cities economy, respondents most frequently selected:
- More support for small and medium-sized businesses (17%)
- Affordable housing (15%)
- Childcare (13%)
- Aligning education programs with employer needs (11%)
