Contact:
Jess Miller
Communications Manager
Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce
608-443-1952
AI use, access to talent and concerns about tariffs all increased from 2024
MADISON, WI – Today, the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce released findings from its second annual regional employer survey, part of the Next Normal (N²) workgroup, which the Chamber and partner organizations created to better understand the future of work and workplaces in the region.
All employers in Greater Madison were invited to participate, and responses were collected from 241 organizations throughout September. While participants represented a diverse group of industries and locations, most responses came from small, locally owned businesses.
Overall, respondents expressed cautious optimism about Greater Madison’s business climate. Despite a majority of employers citing increased economic uncertainty, performance remained the same or better than last year in both workforce and revenue.
Other key findings include:
- Employee availability is improving, though access to talent remains the top barrier. The past year saw improvements in availability of talent, a decline in access to talent as a barrier, and less difficulty hiring for certain positions. That said, access to talent remained the most cited barrier to business among respondents.
- Concerns about tariffs and trade rising. More than seven times as many respondents cited tariffs and trade as a barrier this year compared with last year.
- More businesses adopt artificial intelligence. Nearly 80% of respondents reported using AI in some capacity, up from 49% usage in 2024. The main industries not using AI are food and beverage, and retail, though both saw 40-50% adoption. The most common business uses for AI include content creation and design, administrative support, marketing, business analytics and automation.
“Accurate data is vital to inform our strategies for economic growth and resilience,” said Chamber Vice President Kevin Little. “We’re pleased with the optimism this year’s survey findings suggest and are eager to take on the challenges our respondents identified.”
“It’s encouraging to see so many local employers feeling optimistic about the year ahead,” said Jason Ilstrup, president of Downtown Madison Inc. “Madison’s vibrancy, strong talent base, innovative businesses and collaborative spirit continue to drive both Downtown Madison and our entire community forward — even as we navigate ongoing challenges.”
“The survey results show the Greater Madison area has strong talent, but we need more talent for businesses to grow and thrive,” said Ellie Westman Chin, president and CEO of Destination Madison. “Our work at Destination Madison amplifies the quality of life offerings in our community to draw visitors and attract talent.”
On Thursday, Nov. 6, from 12:15-1:00 p.m., Chamber President Zach Brandon and members of the N² workgroup will discuss the results of this year’s survey on an episode of Lunch(UP)date, a virtual Chamber program.
You can learn more and register to attend the program here.
The N² workgroup includes the Capital Area Regional Planning Commission, City of Madison, Destination Madison, Downtown Madison Inc., Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce, Hmong Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce, Madison Area Builders Association, Madison Black Chamber of Commerce, Madison Gas and Electric Company, StartingBlock, University Research Park, Urban Land Interests, Wisconsin Latino Chamber of Commerce and Workforce Development Board of South Central Wisconsin.
About the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce: The Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce is the voice of business with more than 1,200 organizations – ranging from one-person shops to corporations with more than 10,000 employees – working to bring the Greater Madison area to its full potential. The Greater Madison region is a leader in innovation. From cutting-edge technologies to distinctive retail shops to inventive services and products, our members vary greatly but are united by the region’s entrepreneurial spirit. More information can be found at madisonbiz.com.
