Good economic decisions start with good local data. Talbot County business and nonprofit leaders are invited to participate in the Eastern Shore Business Sentiment Survey, a biannual effort that tracks economic conditions and business confidence across the Eastern Shore of Maryland.
Salisbury University Business, Economic, and Community Outreach Network (BEACON) conducts the survey every six months in partnership with the Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism and other economic development offices across the Eastern Shore. The deadline for taking the current survey is February 1.
Rather than capturing a single snapshot in time, the survey helps build a consistent body of local research that allows leaders to monitor trends, measure change, and understand how business sentiment evolves from one season to the next. That continuity strengthens planning and improves how local governments and partners respond to real-world conditions.
“This survey creates a reliable, local pulse of our economy,” says Cassandra Vanhooser, director of the Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism. “When we collect this information consistently, we gain perspective. We see what’s changing, what’s holding steady, and where we need to act to support our business and nonprofit communities.”
The survey gathers input on current and future economic conditions, including outlook, challenges, and priorities affecting organizations of all sizes. Economic development leaders use the results to inform policy decisions, workforce strategies, and business support programs.
Survey partners include the economic development offices in each of the nine counties on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, along with the Mid-Shore Regional Council, Upper Shore Regional Council, and Tri-County Council for the Lower Eastern Shore of Maryland.
“National and regional data rarely reflect the realities of local economies like ours,” says BEACON Director John Hickman. “This survey gives us a consistent, locally grounded measure of business confidence that leaders can rely on for planning and decision-making.”
Input from business owners helps shape the policies, programs, and investments designed to support local businesses. By participating consistently, business and nonprofit leaders contribute to a trusted body of research that allows leaders to identify trends early, respond to emerging challenges, and make smarter, more timely decisions on behalf of the Eastern Shore business community.
BEACON analyzes and reports survey results and makes them publicly available through the Delmarva Index, supporting transparency and informed decision-making across the region. A summary of the most recent report is available on the Delmarva Index website at delmarvaindex.org.
Businesses and nonprofits can complete the current survey online at bit.ly/eswinter26.
Read More: Download the Summer 2025 survey report here.
About Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism
The Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism’s mission is to enhance and promote a business-friendly environment for current and prospective enterprises and to advocate for policies that support and strengthen the economic vitality of Talbot County. The department’s vision for Talbot County is built on the principles of strong communities, empowered businesses, and innovative solutions.
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