Economic Impact

Growing Nebraska's Economy:

How NU Impacts the State

For 150 years, the University of Nebraska has existed to serve the citizens of the state through high-quality, affordable education, research that improves the quality of life for Nebraskans and others, and engagement with citizens in every county. Thanks to an enduring partnership with the state, along with unprecedented support from the private sector, the university has been successful in fulfilling its responsibility to Nebraskans.

"NU is a major force in the Nebraska economy…The true impact of the university goes far beyond the $4.5 billion in annual economic impact. It is the lynchpin for Nebraska’s continued growth and prosperity." Paul Umbach, Founder and President
Tripp Umbach
"We know intuitively that the University of Nebraska is a major force for economic growth and personal well-being across our state. This analysis confirms that Nebraska cannot be successful without its public university." Hank Bounds, President
University of Nebraska
"It's hard to imagine a family, business, profession or community in Nebraska that is not positively affected by the University of Nebraska, and this data begins to quantify the scope of that impact." Doug Kristensen, Chancellor
University of Nebraska at Kearney
"Our mission is to improve lives by creating a healthier tomorrow, but our impact extends beyond health care education, research, patient care and community outreach. We're proud of our statewide economic impact." Jeffrey Gold, M.D., Chancellor
University of Nebraska at Omaha and University of Nebraska Medical Center
“The University of Nebraska’s impact on our state’s economy is remarkable. Simply put, the University of Nebraska is a key partner for the private sector as we build our state’s economic future.” Bryan Slone, President
Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry
“The University is a productive expenditure, producing value to all citizens across Nebraska and playing an important role in building our economic strength.” Wendy Birdsall, President
Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
“The University of Nebraska has been a vital partner to agriculture for 150 years. The continued strength of our state’s No. 1 industry depends on the strength of the University of Nebraska.” Homer Buell, Vice President
Agriculture Builders of Nebraska
“The University provides companies of all sizes the expertise and tools to develop new technology, find talented employees, and grow market shares. If we want to grow Nebraska’s talent base, we need a growing University of Nebraska.” Jen Amis, President & CEO
Encounter Telehealth, Omaha

Today the University of Nebraska is in a strong position to join with its public and private-sector partners to grow Nebraska for the future. NU’s four campuses are major economic drivers, providing almost 11,000 graduates annually for the workforce, conducting and commercializing innovative research, delivering high-quality clinical care and leveraging partnerships with public and private entities to attract talent and create jobs. The university also is a key contributor to a thriving arts and cultural community in Nebraska that enriches citizens’ lives.

Economic Impact Report

The university engaged Tripp Umbach, a leading national consultant with expertise in economic impact studies, to conduct an independent analysis of the University of Nebraska’s impact on the state’s economic and social vitality. Tripp Umbach’s analysis demonstrates that the university’s impact is significant and far-reaching. The analysis was presented on March 29 to the NU Board of Regents, and details NU’s impact by campus, region and legislative district.

You can read the full report, a report overview and a one-pager below.