What if we could unlock $15.6 billion in new economic growth—by building a Fairfield County that works for everyone?
The Upside—Growth, Potential and the Future of Fairfield County, a research study developed by Fairfield County’s Community Foundation in partnership with the Urban Institute and DataHaven, shows how closing longstanding gaps in income, homeownership, housing values and educational attainment could boost the region’s GDP and help create a more competitive, connected, and prosperous Fairfield County. This is not just about fairness—it’s a smart economic strategy. The data is the evidence: we don’t grow by leaving people behind. When we expand opportunity, we create a brighter future for everyone.
The Upside of Closing Opportunity Gaps
Increasing access to opportunity locally could generate tax revenue that benefits the whole community—funding things like education, infrastructure, affordable housing, economic development, senior tax relief, and greener neighborhoods. If Black and Latino residents of Fairfield County had the same opportunities as their white neighbors there would be:
“For the first time, we have hard data proving that an inclusive Fairfield County isn’t just possible — it’s the key to unlocking our region’s full economic potential. The time for bold action is now.”
Mendi Blue Paca
President & CEO
Fairfield County’s Community Foundation
“At a time of economic uncertainty, this new evidence-based research outlines ways the community can continue to grow and thrive using recommendations from local leaders across the private, public, nonprofit, and philanthropic sectors.”
Dr. Christina Plerhoples Stacy
Principal Research Associate
Urban Institute
A Data-Driven Roadmap for Building a More Resilient Region
The Upside research report lays out a bold, evidence-based plan to improve economic opportunity through targeted investments.
Education
- Universal preschool
- K–12 quality improvement
- Targeted college and trade school subsidies
Health & Wellbeing
- Expanded access to mental healthcare
- Workplace wellness and preventative care
- Community-informed criminal justice reform
Income & Asset Building
- Baby bonds and matched savings programs
- Support for financial literacy and emergency savings
Housing
- Down-payment support for first-generation homebuyers
- Financial coaching and homebuyer education
- Reduced barriers to affordable housing development
Workforce & Small Business
- Apprenticeships and career pathways
- Fair hiring practices
- Accessible financing for small businesses
Let’s build The Upside—together.
Creating long-term growth and resilience will take all of us —government, business, philanthropy, and residents. Here’s how you can get involved.
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About the Research
The Upside was developed by Fairfield County’s Community Foundation in partnership with the Urban Institute and DataHaven, using national modeling and local data to quantify the benefits of eliminating gaps in income, homeownership, housing values and educational attainment. A community-based Equity Research Advisory Panel informed the research design and implementation at critical points in the process. The panel included Fairfield County based leaders from public, private, nonprofit, philanthropic, and grassroots organizations, representing sectors including housing, health, education, youth, and the arts.
This publication was created by the Urban Institute, in the performance of the US Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Planning, Research, and Evaluation, grant 90XP05-21-01-00. Any opinion, findings, and conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the US Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families.
Our Partners
General Inquiries & Media
Lauren Stewart – lauren@turn-two.co | (804) 690-9966
Krista Carnes – kcarnes@fccfoundation.org | (203) 750-3200
Philanthropic Partnerships
Joe Collin – jcollin@fccfoundation.org | (203) 750-3200
Research Inquires
Dr. Tanya A. Hills – thills@fccfoundation.org | (203) 750-3200
