Industry and Trade Associations
Associations often provide useful free statistics, data, and news on their websites. Look for areas labeled "data," "library," "news," "research," or "resources."
To find associations:
Gale Directory Library Includes Encyclopedia of Associations (International Organizations; National Organizations of the U.S.; Regional, State, and Local Organizations)
Google Advanced SearchSearch for industry description + association (e.g. automobile + association). If desired, add site:.org to limit results to domains ending in .org.
Search for trade and news articles in business literature databases:
ABI/Inform Aggregates content from thousands of business and management publications worldwide, including scholarly and trade publications.
Business Source Complete Business-focused academic journals, magazines and trade publications, as well as some company, industry and market reports.
Factiva Current and historical news from thousands of publications worldwide in over 20 languages. Company overviews and stock data are available for public companies.
Industry Reports
Industry reports may include external drivers, market segmentation, competitive landscape, operating conditions, industry forecasts, and other factors that provide context to the market.
Differentiating industry and market research reports:
- Industry reports focus on an industry producing products or services, the industry's supply chain, and external influencing factors
- Market research reports focus on consumers of an industry's product or service and influences on consumer preferences and demand.
Analyst Reports
Investment bank analyst reports provide details about markets, companies, industries, and geographic regions worldwide. Search for analyst reports for public companies serving a specific market.
Use venture capital databases to find details about companies and deals in the industry:
U.S. Government
The federal government makes an enormous amount of information publicly available. Visit the websites of each government agency relevant to the market to retrieve information, statistics, and data.
If unsure where to begin, try these resources:
Data USAFree site featuring U.S. government data and data visualizations.
Governments other than the U.S.
- Search other countries' government websites, some of which offer English versions.
- The U.S. Census Bureau provides links to National Statistical Offices
Proxy/Substitute
When all else fails, use research for a proxy/substitute, such as a broader market segment or a closely aligned but more established industry.