Researcher(s)
- Akshaya Shree Jawaharlal Nehru, Economics, University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Troy Mix, Institute of Public Administration, University of Delaware
Abstract
Over the course of the Summer Biden School Fellows Program, I worked under the supervision of Mr. Troy Mix on three key projects related to developing a structure for a potential Futures Council for Delaware, Broadband access barriers to non-profit organizations and corporate governance in Delaware. My poster presentation highlights the feasibility and structure of a potential Economic Futures Council for the State of Delaware, under the guidance of Mr. Troy Mix at the Institute for Public Administration. This project aims to envision a cross-sector advisory body that can help Delaware proactively prepare for long-term economic shifts and uncertainties. Through literature review and comparative case analysis, I examined models of similar initiatives across the US, including the Vermont Futures Project and Joint Venture Silicon Valley. These models served as reference points for evaluating possible structures, governance frameworks, and program functions suitable for Delaware’s unique economic landscape. Key components of my research include scenario planning as a methodological tool and the importance of sustained community engagement in economic foresight. In addition to the literature review, I was able to build a hypothetical initial framework of possible structures and guiding principles tailored to Delaware’s institutional capacity. While I also worked on other very impactful and meaningful projects like the broadband access barriers project with Professor Alisa Moldavanova and corporate governance project with Mr. Troy Mix this summer as a part of the Fellowship, the Futures Council project represents an exciting opportunity to bring an efficient system of strategic foresight and inclusive policy development to Delaware’s economic planning. My poster hopes to capture the summary of my proposed models for such a council.