Economic Impact Statistics

As one of the world’s leading research institutions, the UW delivers spectacular returns to its primary stakeholders — the citizens of Washington State.

UW research brings $1 billion into WA each year, generates over $2 billion in business activity, and supports over 42,000 jobs statewide.*

Over 200 new companies

UW technologies and innovations have helped Washington become a center for some of the most promising sectors of the economy -- biotechnology, medical devices and imaging, software and information technology. Over 200 new companies have been based around UW research advances.

Launching careers and creating jobs

• By combining teaching and research, the UW offers students exceptional hands-on learning experiences that prepare them to excel in the knowledge-based economy.
• UW research-related spending supports over 42,000 jobs statewide.*

$2 billion for Washington’s economy

• The UW received over $1 billion in research funding during FY06.
• Ninety percent of this money comes from outside WA, and most of it will be spent within the state.
• UW R&D expenditures generated over $2 billion in business activity statewide during FY06.*

Technology means business

• Forbes.com's recently ranked Washington as one of the Top 5 States for Business. UW research is central to the “culture of innovation” that propelled WA from 12th place in 2006 to 5th place in 2007.
• Washington has one of the nation’s top 5 knowledge-based economies, and the UW is a key driver for its growth, according to the 2007 State New Economy Index by the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation.

(*Note: Based on UW R&D expenditures and economic multipliers provided by the Washington State Office of  Financial Management.)