Unlock the Power of Insight with
AEO’s Research Team

The Association for Enterprise Opportunity (AEO) is your dedicated partner for driving evidence-based impact. We provide end-to-end research support so partners can make smarter decisions, demonstrate impact, and identify new opportunities. Our services include survey development, data collection, analysis, landscape studies, and evaluation design: everything needed to turn complex information into insights you can use. We work closely with partners to define the right questions, gather high-quality data, and deliver concise, compelling findings for stakeholders, funders, and communities. 

Our approach blends methodological rigor with deep field insight—co-designing studies, engaging practitioners, and translating data into tools, briefs, and recommendations that support real change. Each project is customized to meet your strategic needs and amplify your impact.

 

Our Research Services:

Project and Impact Evaluations

Measure what matters—and uncover opportunities to strengthen programs and outcomes. We design mixed-methods evaluations using surveys, qualitative interviews, administrative data, public datasets, and advanced statistical analysis to help partners understand impact and plan for scale.

Plate by Plate: How FoodLab Chicago Builds Stronger Businesses and Communities
AEO led a comprehensive five-year evaluation of FoodLab Chicago, analyzing business outcomes, commercial corridor trends, and community-level impact. The findings now guide program strategy, fundraising, and city partnerships.

 

 

Landscape & Policy Analyses for Strategic Decision-Making

We support partners in understanding complex systems—whether through market mapping, policy research, or analysis of trends affecting underserved entrepreneurs. Our work helps organizations identify opportunities, inform strategy, and shape program or policy decisions.

From Prison to Business: Entrepreneurship as a Reentry Strategy
This PPI-commissioned study by AEO makes a compelling case for treating entrepreneurship as a core reentry strategy. The report outlines four pillars of support that federal, state, and local leaders can adopt to expand opportunity, strengthen local economies, and reduce recidivism.

 

 

How It Works:

Customized Consultation 

We begin by understanding your unique objectives, needs, and target outcomes, working with your team to ensure alignment at every stage. 

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Rigorous Research Design 

Our team designs a customized research approach, using qualitative and quantitative methods that ensure robust and reliable insights.

Comprehensive Reporting 

Receive a detailed, actionable report with data visualizations, insights, and recommendations tailored to your strategic priorities.

Let’s Make an Impact Together

Whether you’re evaluating an ongoing initiative, exploring new market opportunities, or looking to gain insights that fuel meaningful growth, AEO’s Research as a Service (RaaS) is here to help you achieve your goals. Connect with us today to learn more about how our research team can empower your mission.
Contact Us
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