In each of the four communities we visited, consortia were formed in response to individual community economic and workforce development needs. In some locations, these needs were identified and examined through formal studies on the community's workforce conditions and future economic challenges. For example, in Charlotte, North Carolina, business leaders working with other community organizations sought to identify strategies to continue the business growth of the area while exploring potential weaknesses in the local economy. In these communities, local public and private organizations joined together to address existing and emerging workforce development Issues. Consortia varied somewhat in membership and activities according to their area's needs and resources but were characterized by a strong business focus. Consortia were typically lead by one or two key organizations, such as the chamber of commerce and community college. Other consortia members often included local school districts, workforce investment boards, business and trade associations, and unions. In three of the four locations we visited, officials from consortia organizations had established intermediary entities to help link all consortium organizations and to act as a broker or provider of services.