A recent study conducted by Lightcast reveals that the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) contributes $617.6 million annually to the economy of northeast Louisiana, establishing itself as a major regional economic force. The analysis, based on fiscal year 2023–24 data, underscores the institution’s broad influence on employment, income generation, and community development.
The university supports 10,464 jobs throughout the region—equivalent to one in every 18 positions in northeast Louisiana being tied to ULM or its student population. Of the total economic contribution, $457.7 million stems from the long-term earnings of alumni, which in turn supports local businesses and industries. University operations account for $108.2 million in spending, comparable to purchasing 2,290 new vehicles each year. Student expenditures add $32 million to the local economy, while entrepreneurial ventures linked to ULM generate $16.6 million. Additional contributions include $1.8 million from visitor spending and $1.3 million from research activities, further broadening the economic footprint.
The study also highlights strong returns on investment for various stakeholders. For every dollar invested by taxpayers, the state gains $2.40 in additional revenue and cost savings, representing a 6.1 percent annual return. Students see a return of $5.30 in lifetime earnings per dollar spent on their education, yielding an annualized return of 20.7 percent. Society as a whole benefits to the tune of $6.60 in combined income and social savings per dollar invested, amounting to over $1.4 billion in long-term gains for Louisiana.
Beyond financial metrics, ULM enhances regional quality of life through outreach and cultural programs. Initiatives such as the Mobile Dental Hygiene Unit deliver essential care to underserved rural populations while training future health professionals. The university’s Visual and Performing Arts offerings enrich the community through concerts, theatrical productions, and art exhibitions.
ULM President Dr. Carrie L. Castille emphasized the institution’s dual role: “The University of Louisiana Monroe is more than an educational institution—it is a powerful economic engine that sustains jobs, strengthens families, and builds the future of Northeast Louisiana.” She noted that the university’s total economic impact rivals that of hosting the Super Bowl, solidifying its status as a cornerstone of regional growth and opportunity.
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ULM generates $617.6 million annual economic impact in northeast Louisiana
Published October 7, 2025 n nMONROE, La. – A recent economic impact study shows that the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) is one of the largest economic drivers in Northeast Louisiana, contributing $617.6 million in added income each year to the region’s economy. n nThe study, conducted by Lightcast and reflecting FY 2023–24, highlights the significant role ULM plays in workforce development, community vitality, and long-term economic growth. n nKey findings include: n n10,464 jobs supported across the region, meaning 1 out of every 18 jobs in Northeast Louisiana is connected to ULM or its students. n n$457.7 million in added income from alumni impact, as graduates’ higher earnings fuel local businesses and industries. n n$108.2 million from university operations spending, equivalent to the purchase of 2,290 new cars each year. n n$32 million from student spending, as students attracted to ULM invest directly into the local economy. n n$16.6 million from spin-off companies launched by ULM-related entrepreneurship. n n$1.8 million from visitor spending and $1.3 million from research activity, further diversifying regional economic benefits. n nBeyond its measurable financial impact, the study found that ULM provides exceptional returns for all stakeholders: n nTaxpayers gain $2.40 in added revenue and savings for every $1 invested. n nStudents gain $5.30 in lifetime earnings for every $1 invested in their ULM education. n nSociety gains $6.60 in added income and social savings for every $1 invested. n nA Strong Return on Investment n nThe report also highlights ULM’s exceptional return for students, taxpayers, and society: n nStudents: For every $1 invested, students gain $5.30 in lifetime earnings, with an annual return rate of 20.7%. n nTaxpayers: For every $1 of public funding, taxpayers receive $2.40 in added tax revenue and savings, an annual return of 6.1%. n nSociety: Louisiana gains $6.60 in added income and social benefits for every $1 invested in ULM, totaling more than $1.4 billion in long-term benefits n nBeyond Economics n nULM also enhances quality of life through programs, outreach, and partnerships. For example, its Mobile Dental Hygiene Unit provides care to underserved rural communities while training future healthcare professionals, and its Visual and Performing Arts programs add cultural value through numerous musical performances, plays, and art shows and exhibits. n n“The University of Louisiana Monroe is more than an educational institution—it is a powerful economic engine that sustains jobs, strengthens families, and builds the future of Northeast Louisiana,” said ULM President Dr. Carrie L. Castille. “This study underscores the vital role ULM plays not only in educating students, but in uplifting every community in the entire region.” n nThe total annual economic impact of ULM is comparable to the economic boost of hosting the Super Bowl, making the university a cornerstone of growth and opportunity for the region.