A recent study reveals that the University of Oregon (UO) contributes $3.7 billion annually to the state’s economy. Commissioned by the university and conducted by Parker Strategy Group, the report evaluates both direct and indirect economic contributions, highlighting UO’s role as a major driver of growth and innovation. n nFor every dollar invested by the state, the institution returns $15.22 in economic value. The university supports over 21,500 jobs statewide and generates $238 million in annual tax revenue, funds that support public services across Oregon. Beyond financial metrics, UO advances research, attracts global visitors, and strengthens communities through outreach and engagement. n n”The University of Oregon is not just in Oregon, it’s for Oregon,” said President Karl Scholz. “Our teaching, research, and public service fuel the state’s economy, strengthen its workforce, and build long-term resilience. Every day, our students, faculty, and alumni demonstrate what it means to lead for Oregon.” n nResearch initiatives alone contribute nearly $500 million to the economy and sustain more than 3,700 jobs. Over the past five years, UO has generated $46 million from technology transfer and $7.8 million in innovation-related income. During that time, 26 patents were filed, and five new spinout companies launched, bringing the total number of active UO-affiliated startups to 23. n nThe university provides critical support for entrepreneurship, offering seed funding, business advising, and incubator space. One success story is Penderia Technologies, a company born from faculty research. Through the Tallwood Design Institute, UO is also pioneering the use of mass timber, a sustainable building material that leverages Oregon’s forest resources. n nAdditionally, UO leads a major earthquake research center focused on improving regional preparedness for seismic events in the Pacific Northwest. n nThe institution plays a vital role in workforce development. Its graduates support an additional 760,000 jobs across the state’s economy. Alumni contribute $143 billion in economic activity over their careers and pay $8.8 billion in state and local taxes. n nPrograms like the Ballmer Institute for Children’s Behavioral Health are creating new career pathways to address workforce shortages in critical fields. The Knight Campus Graduate Internship Program has, for nearly three decades, prepared students for high-paying roles in scientific industries, many within Oregon-based companies. n nWith over 269,000 alumni worldwide—including 124,000 residing in Oregon—UO graduates hold leadership roles in education, business, and government. Faculty, staff, and students contribute $18.8 million annually through volunteer work and charitable donations. n nThe Sustainable City Year program partners with Oregon municipalities to solve complex urban challenges while giving students hands-on experience. One former participant now serves as Oakridge’s community development director, mentoring current students. n nEugene’s mayor, a former student-athlete at UO, credits her time at the university with shaping her leadership abilities. n nAthletics and cultural events also boost economic activity. UO draws 1.2 million visitors annually, generating $470 million in visitor spending and $649 million in athletic-related economic impact. Autzen Stadium, home to the Ducks, hosts not only football games but also major university ceremonies like commencement. n nThe Oregon Bach Festival has earned international acclaim and a Grammy award for its performances and community engagement. Hayward Field continues to attract elite athletes and fans, hosting premier events such as the NCAA Championships and U.S. Olympic Team Trials.
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Economic Impact Report
Leading for Oregon n nThe UO creates $3.7 billion in economic impact for Oregon, report shows n nA new study puts numbers on UO’s far-reaching impact on Oregon’s economy, to the tune of $3.7 billion. Last year, the UO contracted with Parker Strategy Group to assess the University’s direct and indirect contributions to the state economy. n nAs calculated by the report, every dollar of state investment in the UO is returned as more than $15 in economic benefits. The UO creates and sustains thousands of jobs and generates millions in tax revenue each year. The university also benefits Oregon by advancing research and innovation, drawing visitors from around the world, and giving back to communities in every corner of the state. n nThe study underscores how UO is a net public good and an economic engine for the state. Read more about some of the ways the UO powers Oregon’s economic engine. n n”The University of Oregon is not just in Oregon, it’s for Oregon. Our teaching, research and public engagement fuel Oregon’s economy, strengthen its workforce and build resilience for generations to come. Every day, our students, faculty, and alumni demonstrate what it means to lead for Oregon.” n n— UO President Karl Scholz n n$1 ⇒ $15.22 n nFor every $1 invested by the state, the UO provides $15.22 in economic impact. n n21,500+ n nThe UO creates and sustains more than 21,500 jobs for Oregonians. n n$238M n nThe UO generates $238 million in tax revenue each year, critical funds to meet the needs of all Oregonians. n nInnovation and Research n nUO research alone, in fields such as education, science and more, generates nearly half a billion dollars in economic impact and sustains 3,738 jobs. n nPlus, over the past five years, UO has generated $46 million in technology-transfer revenue and $7.8 million in innovation income. n nDuring that same window, 26 new patents were filed and five spinout companies launched, bringing the total to 23 active UO-affiliated startups. n nFrom seed funding to business consultation to start-up space, the UO provides resources that help faculty turn their discoveries into business ventures. Penderia Technologies is one such success story. n nVia the Tallwood Design Institute, UO is leading the way in advancing the use of mass timber, a more sustainable way to tap Oregon’s forest resources. n nUO leads a major earthquake research center that is working to make the Pacific Northwest more prepared for a future mega-quake. n nJob Growth and Workforce Development n nUO generates over 21,000 jobs for Oregonians — that’s 1 of every 100 jobs in the state. n nBeyond campus, UO graduates support an additional 760,000 jobs in the statewide economy. n nUO alumni generate an additional $143 billion economic contributions to Oregon’s economy. n nThe Ballmer Institute for Children’s Behavioral Health is creating a new career path, helping address a critical shortage of child behavioral health professionals in Oregon. n nFor almost 30 years, the Knight Campus Graduate Internship Program has trained students for well-paying careers in scientific industry, many at Oregon companies. n nCivic and Alumni Leadership n nWith over 269,000 alumni worldwide, including 124,000 who live and work in Oregon, UO’s graduates are leaders and contributors to public life in Oregon and beyond—from classrooms to boardrooms to elected office. n nUO alumni across Oregon contribute $8.8 billion in state and local taxes over their careers. Faculty, staff, and students also give back by contributing $18.8 million annually through volunteerism and charitable giving. n nSustainable City Year partners with Oregon cities to develop students’ skills while helping communities solve complex issues. Years ago, the program helped one alum find his footing. Today, he’s working with current students as the community development director for Oakridge. n nEugene’s mayor got her start as a Duck, and her time as a student athlete helped her develop the leadership skills she depends on today. n nScoring Big as a National and Global Destination n nUO attracts 1.2 million visitors annually for athletics, arts, and academic events, driving $470 million in visitor spending and $649 million in athletic-related impact. n nIt never rains at Autzen! The football stadium is a destination for the Ducks’ global fan base, and also hosts major university milestones like Commencement. n nThe Oregon Bach Festival has gained international recognition for its concerts and community-building. It’s even won a Grammy award. n nHayward Field draws world-class athletes and fans, hosting major events like the NCAA Track and Field Championships and the U.S. Olympic Team Trials. n nRead the Economic Impact Report