While many people are familiar with the United States Census, which is taken every 10 years as mandated by the Constitution, there are actually over 100 different surveys conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau each year. In this educational series, SBB Research Group summarizes key information from Census.gov about these lesser-known—but highly important—survey. What is the Consumer Expenditure Surveys (CE) Program? The Consumer Expenditure Surveys (CE) program is a national household survey program conducted by the United States Census Bureau (USCB) for the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The purpose of these surveys is to find out how Americans spend money. The CE program provides comprehensive information on consumer expenditures and incomes, and the program has two parts — the Quarterly Interview Survey and the Diary Survey. For the Quarterly Interview Survey, each participating household is interviewed once per quarter for a year. This survey captures information about large purchases. The Diary Survey is self-administered and requires each participating household to keep a diary for two one-week periods. This survey captures data about small, frequently purchased items. How CE Data is Used The data collected by the CE program is primarily used to update the inputs for the Consumer Price Index, an important measure of inflation based on prices of typical consumer purchases. Survey Eligibility Households are chosen to participate in the CE program from the Census Bureau’s Master Address File. The selection process is designed to capture a representative sample of the entire country, including rural and urban populations. General Topics in the Survey The Interview Survey and the Diary Survey each focus on slightly different topics. Using computer-assisted personal interviewing techniques, the Interview Survey attempts to ascertain large or recurring expenditures, such as spending on rent, property, and vehicles. Participants in the Diary Survey are asked to record much smaller, frequent purchases, such as spending on food and beverages, tobacco, personal care products, and nonprescription drugs and supplies. Privacy of Information Collected The U.S. Census Bureau must keep all information collected in the CE program strictly confidential (Title 13 of the U.S. Code, Section 9). The information gathered can only be used for statistical purposes and released to the public in a statistical format only. No personally identifiable information (e.g., name, address, and phone number) is released. Sources: www.census.gov/programs-surveys/ce and www.bls.gov/cex/

While many people are familiar with the United States Census, which is taken every 10 years as mandated by the Constitution, there are actually over 100 different surveys conducted by the US Census Bureau each year. In this educational series, SBB Research Group summarizes key information from Census.gov about these lesser-known—but highly important—surveys. What is County Business Patterns (CBP) Data? County Business Patterns (CBP) data is an annual statistical series of economic information by industry and geographic location. It offers detailed statistics for establishments with paid employees. The CBP includes the collection and dissemination of data obtained from the Business Register. It contains the Census Bureau’s most reliable data for US business establishments, including Census Bureau economic statistics and recent business surveys. The data also includes income and payroll tax information and other statistics and records. How CBP Data is Used CBP data is useful for studying economic activity in specific geographic areas and analyzing economic changes over time. The information is often used for benchmarking other statistical series between economic censuses. Government agencies use the data for administration and planning. Businesses use CBP data to examine market potential, gauge sales, analyze the effectiveness of advertising programs, and develop budgets. Data Sources Sources for CBP data include: • Annual Survey of Manufactures • Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) • Current Business Surveys • Economic Census • Internal Revenue Service (IRS) • Social Security Administration (SSA) Frequency of Survey The CBP itself has been conducted annually since 1964, and similar data collection has occurred throughout various periods since 1946. CBP data are published around 16 months after each reference year. Because the CBP publishes annually, the data is a snapshot rather than a comprehensive reflection of aggregated data. The CBP does not revise data for prior years. General Topics in the Survey The CBP series data provides useful information by industry regarding for the following local business topics: • Number of establishments • Employment information • National payroll information • State payroll information • Metropolitan area payroll information • Combined statistical area payroll information • County and congressional district information Privacy of Information Collected The Census Bureau is not allowed to provide data linked to specific establishments, including any lists of establishments in a designated area (Title 13 of the U.S. Code, Section 9). Source: https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/cbp.html

While many people are familiar with the United States Census, which is taken every 10 years as mandated by the Constitution, there are actually over 100 different surveys conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau each year. In this educational series, SBB Research Group summarizes key information from Census.gov about these lesser-known—but highly important—surveys. What is the American Time Use Survey (ATUS)? The American Time Use Survey (ATUS) is sponsored by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and conducted annually by the U.S. Census Bureau since 2003. It is designed to gather information about how people allocate their time between work, family, leisure, and other activities. It is a voluntary survey that takes approximately fifteen to twenty minutes and is conducted only by telephone. How ATUS Data is Used Researchers, including economists and social scientists, use ATUS data to create a detailed picture of economic activity in the United States. The data collected includes time spent in childcare, eldercare, and volunteer work not captured in other domestic economic output measures. The data collected answers important questions, including: How much leisure time do people have? What do people prefer to do with their leisure time? How often do people perform work for their employer even after the workday is completed? Do people in different parts of the country spend their time differently? Do men and women spend their time differently? How do different age groups, such as retirees or students, spend their time? How does the quality of life differ across the country? How does the quality of life in the United States compare to other countries? Comparing one survey against another reveals critical trends in how Americans spend their time. Survey Eligibility Participants for the ATUS are selected from participants of the most recent Current Population Survey (CPS). This practice allows the government to expand on the CPS information without re-asking the CPS questions, saving time for surveyors and participants. General Topics in the Survey The survey questions are focused primarily on the participant's activities over the last 24-hour period. Participants are asked to answer questions related to how much time they have spent engaged in the following activities: Working Commuting Volunteering Gaining an education Caring for children or elderly Exercising or playing sports Privacy of Information Collected The U.S. Census Bureau is required to keep all information collected in the ATUS strictly confidential (Title 13 of the U.S. Code, Section 9). The information gathered can only be used for statistical purposes and released to the public in a statistical format only. No personally identifiable information is released. Source: https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/atus.html

While many people are familiar with the United States Census, which is taken every 10 years as mandated by the Constitution, there are actually over 100 different surveys conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau each year. In this educational series, SBB Research Group summarizes key information from Census.gov about these lesser-known—but highly important—surveys. What Is The Annual Survey Of State And Local Government Finances? The Annual Survey of State and Local Government Finances is a survey sponsored by the U.S. Census Bureau that collects and provides financial data on a national scale at both the state and local level and records the information using uniform definitions and procedures. It is the only source of comprehensive local government financial data collected nationwide. Survey data collected reflects information on liabilities, assets, revenues, and expenses categorized by each government function. Examples of government functions surveyed include: Police enforcement Fire protection Financial administration Central staff services Judicial and legal branches Highways Public welfare Solid waste management Parks and recreation Water supply Gas supply Correctional facilities Air transportation Transit Housing and community development Health and hospitals Cities Dependent agencies How The Annual Survey Of State And Local Government Finances Is Used There are many consumers of the data collected from the Annual Survey of State of Local Government Finances, including Congress, state and local governments, federal agencies, education and research organizations, and the public. Examples of how these members may use the data include: Fiscal policy and public research/analysis Comparison studies of finances at the state and local government levels Research for legislation How to allocate specific federal grant funds Generation of personal income figures for county and state regions Creation of income accounts for the nation Government estimates for the gross domestic product (GDP) Frequency Of Survey The Annual Survey of State and Local Government Finances is collected every year, beginning in 1957. The way the data is surveyed may vary from year to year. In particular, the census is surveyed every five years (in the years ending in “2” and “7”). In the off years, a sample is used to collect data from both state and local governments. The sample population is determined every five years in years ending in “4” and “9.” The survey year is calculated using government fiscal years, which spans from July 1 of the previous year to June 30 of the current year. For example, the survey year of 2020 spans government fiscal calendars that were from July 1, 2019, through June 30, 2020. How Survey Information Is Collected The survey is conducted annually by the U.S. Census Bureau. The following sample timeline reflects the overall data collection process: November Initial mail-out December Due date reminder January Follow-up mail-out #1 February Follow-up mail-out #2 April-May Telephone follow-up There are three methods commonly used to collect the requested survey data: mail canvass, internet collection, and a central collection from state sources. The method may vary based upon state requirements and the type of government (state vs. local municipality). In the event data collected is incomplete, the U.S. Census Bureau may attempt to collect data from other sources such as the Comprehensive Annual Financial Reports (CAFRs). Source: https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/gov-finances.html

SBB Research Group is excited to recognize three local charities as the September 2020 finalists of its monthly grant program supporting impactful nonprofit organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic (in alphabetical order): Designs for Dignity (Chicago) provides donated furnishings and architectural services to enhance the physical environments of other nonprofit organizations. Evanston Scholars (Evanston) offers test preparation, guidance, and mentorship to underserved students to help them enter and succeed in college. Share Our Spare (Chicago) collects and distributes essential baby items to families living in poverty, helping their children thrive early in life. These finalists will give ten-minute presentations via videoconference to the Chicago-area investment firm’s staff, who will ask questions to learn more about each of these important causes. The employees will then vote to allocate the company’s monthly grant awards. Each finalist will receive at least $1,000 in donations. Last month, Simply Destinee received $5,000 from SBB Research Group to promote mental health through inspirational dance and art programs that reach over one thousand students each year. SBB’s COO, Matt Aven, said “the need has become even more urgent during the pandemic.” Numerous worthy charities have applied for grants through this program. Any 501(c)(3) non-profit organization is encouraged to apply. For more information, please visit https://www.sbbrg.org/apply-for-grant. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200909006177/en/SBB-Research-Group-Names-September-2020-Grant

Funds will support the creation of a youth liaison and advocate position. Simply Destinee, a nonprofit organization based in Aurora, Illinois, has received an unrestricted $5,000 grant from SBB Research Group, a Chicago-area investment firm that awards monthly grants to support impactful nonprofits during the COVID-19 pandemic. Simply Destinee saves lives by promoting mental health and raising awareness about teenage suicide among Aurora’s youth. They are committed to providing community-based support for students to feel safe, healthy, and ready to learn. Working within the local school district, they offer inspirational dance and art programs designed to foster creativity and social and emotional learning. Simply Destinee’s programs reach over one thousand students annually. As a result of COVID-19, many of Simply Destinee’s programs have been moved online, posing additional challenges for the group as they seek to guide and connect with their participating children. Martin Luna, the group’s Executive Director and co-founder, believes that SBB Research Group’s donation is a much-needed boost to their efforts to maintain their links to the community. “Simply Destinee is very grateful for SBB Research Group’s interest and support of our community-based creative youth after-school program, which engages youth and their families in expressive dance, visual art, team building, workforce development, mentoring and community service, along with suicide awareness and youth mental health parenting and community education,” said Luna. Matt Aven, SBB Research Group’s COO and CCO, explained that Simply Destinee was selected by the firm in part because “the need has become even more urgent during the pandemic.” The CDC has cautioned that many people experience overwhelming fear when a new disease emerges. Additionally, social distancing can cause anxiety and loneliness. “Simply Destinee is supporting mental health for over a thousand children and their families,” added Aven. “We are proud to support their important work, especially with the mental health challenges facing the community right now.” For more information about Simply Destinee, please visit simplydestinee.com. To apply for a grant from SBB Research Group, please visit sbbrg.org/apply-for-grant. Any 501(c)(3) non-profit organization is encouraged to apply and grants are awarded to different organizations every month. This story first appeared on EIN Presswire

While many people are familiar with the United States Census, which is taken every 10 years as mandated by the Constitution, there are actually over 100 different surveys conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau each year. In this educational series, SBB Research Group summarizes key information from Census.gov about these lesser-known—but highly important—surveys. What is the Annual Retail Trade Survey (ARTS)? The Annual Retail Trade Survey (ARTS) studies retail businesses based in the United States. The survey’s estimates include total annual sales, e-commerce sales, inventories, purchases, operational expenses, gross margins, sales taxes, and accounts receivable. ARTS collects data more often than the Economic Census, which is surveyed every five years. ARTS is also more thorough than the Monthly Retail Trade Survey (MRTS). How ARTS Data is Used The figures generated from ARTS serve many purposes. Below are a few examples of how the information is used each year: The Federal Reserve Board reviews and observes credit lending in retail from the accounts receivable information from ARTS. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) utilizes the aggregated information as part of its calculations of the Producer Price Index (PPI) and other measurements of productivity. ARTS estimates are used as points of reference for the more frequent MRTS. Companies and other public agencies utilize the ARTS data to assess economic trends, perform market research, and enhance products and solutions. Survey Eligibility The ARTS population that is surveyed each year includes businesses that are categorized in the retail trade sector and are located in the United States (excluding territories). Companies that do not have any paid employees, also known as nonemployers, are imputed or approximated from other sources. Since 2016, information from accommodation and food service businesses is collected in the Service Annual Survey (SAS). Frequency of Survey ARTS is conducted every year, and the results are generally released to the public around fifteen months after the survey year has ended. Industry-level estimates are categorized based on the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS). General Topics in the Survey ARTS collects data each year on retail businesses’ total annual sales, e-commerce sales, purchases, operating expenses, inventories, accounts receivable, and other metrics. Every five years, the survey includes the Business Expenses Supplement, which delves into further detail regarding operating expenses. Source: https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/arts.html

SBB Research Group congratulates the August 2020 finalists of its monthly grant program supporting impactful nonprofit organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic. These finalists (listed in alphabetical order) provide an array of essential services to the Illinois community: C24/7 (Chicago) supports children and young adults with after-school programs, job readiness training, emergency payments, and the necessary environment to thrive socially and economically. Home of the Sparrow (McHenry) protects women and children from homelessness and empowers them to achieve lasting self-sufficiency through community partnerships. Humanity Relief (Chicago) combats poverty and violence by providing food, shelter, and skill development classes to refugee families and survivors of domestic abuse. Simply Destinee (Aurora) saves lives by promoting mental health and raising awareness about suicide; their inspirational dance and art programs foster creativity and social emotional learning. The finalists will give ten-minute presentations via videoconference to SBB Research Group’s staff, who will have the opportunity to ask questions to learn more about each of these important causes. The employees will then vote to allocate the company’s monthly grant awards, which range from $1,000 to $5,000 per charity. Each finalist will receive at least $1,000 in donations. Last month, the Community Action Partnership of Central Illinois (CAPCIL) won a $5,000 award, which will support free meals, wellness checks, medical transportation, and other critical services to individuals and families in need. SBB Research Group has received grant applications from numerous worthy organizations since launching this program, and those that have not been selected as finalists will still be considered in future months. Any 501(c)(3) non-profit organization is encouraged to apply, and the application is just 10 brief questions. For more information, please visit https://www.sbbrg.org/apply-for-grant. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200806005544/en/SBB-Research-Group-Names-August-2020-Grant

SBB Research Group, as part of the Chicago-area investment firm’s monthly grant program to support impactful nonprofit organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic, is excited to congratulate the July 2020 finalists (in alphabetical order): Blackdog All Breed Dog Rescue (Glenview, Illinois), an animal shelter dedicated to caring for dogs in need and supporting vaccinations and veterinary visits for families who cannot afford them. Community Action Partnership of Central Illinois (Lincoln, Illinois), a poverty-fighting organization providing meals, personal development, and other services to underserved families. The Well (Mars Hill, Maine), a safe haven for youth that serves the community by providing meals, educational guidance, and counseling to children and young adults in need. These finalists will give ten-minute presentations via videoconference to SBB Research Group’s staff, who will have the opportunity to ask questions to learn more about each of these important causes. The employees will then vote to allocate the company’s monthly grant awards, which range from $1,000 to $5,000 per charity. Each finalist will receive at least $1,000 in donations. SBB Research Group received grant applications from many worthy organizations, and those who were not selected as July 2020 finalists will still be considered in future months. Any 501(c)(3) non-profit organization is encouraged to apply, and the application is just 10 brief questions. For more information, please visit https://www.sbbrg.org/apply-for-grant. https://marketersmedia.com/sbb-research-group-names-july-2020-grant-finalists-blackdog-capcil-and-the-well/88968227

In this educational series, SBB Research Group summarizes key information from Census.gov about these lesser-known—but highly important—surveys. What is the Business Dynamics Statistics (BDS) Census Program? The Business Dynamics Statistics (BDS) program was developed by the U.S. Census Bureau to track many of the common changes that occur within a business lifecycle. The BDS data covers many metrics including the opening and closing of business establishments, startups and shutdowns of firms, and job creation and loss. Information contained within the BDS is derived from the Longitudinal Business Database (LBD), which is a confidential database that is only accessible to specific researchers in Federal Statistical Research Data Centers. The statistics collected from the program are subsequently published and broken down by industry sector, state, firm, and company size and age. How BDS Data is Used BDS data is used by researchers, policymakers, economists, and the overall business community for many reasons. Data collected can help develop an understanding of how companies function throughout the business cycle. Researchers also look at these statistics to better understand how companies contribute to job growth and productivity based on the size and age of the company. Survey Eligibility The Census Bureau's County Business Patterns (CBP) program determines the parameters and scope of the BDS. When calculating statistics, the BDS aggregates each establishment or location of a firm into one statistic for the overall firm based upon collective ownership. Companies under this definition may be considered a single-unit operation or a multi-unit operation. By aggregating all establishments under common ownerships into one statistic, metrics can reflect firm size more accurately. Below is a list of sectors covered in the BDS: Construction Manufacturing Transportation and Public Utilities Agricultural Services, Forestry, and Fishing Retail Trade Wholesale Trade Finance, Insurance, and Real Estate Services Within these sectors, the survey excludes certain employee types from the statistics: self-employed, domestic service workers, railroad employees, agricultural production workers, many government employees, employees on ocean vessels, and employees overseas. Employment is considered and calculated for full and part-time employees. Employees that are on paid leave, vacation, or holiday are included in calculations. How Survey Information is Collected BDS data is gathered from the Longitudinal Business Database (LBD). Information in the LBD covers a span dating back to 1976. Information is built by using annual snapshots from the Business Register through the Census Bureau. The annual data helps to depict a timeline for each business and establishment. That timeline further defines estimates of jobs created at business creation, expansion, and jobs at the end of a business lifecycle. General Topics in the Survey The information collected by BDS is broken down into tables classified under the following: Employment: the creation of new jobs and the elimination of jobs Job growth and slowdowns Number of companies and establishments Openings and closings of establishments Number of startups and company shutdowns By collecting statistics on the above topics, the BDS provides valuable snapshots of the periodic changes to businesses and economic conditions in the United States. Source: https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/bds.html