In Partnership

University of Massachusetts > Economic Development > Economic Development

Economic Development

The University of Massachusetts creates jobs, prepares its students to succeed in those jobs, and inspires social activity that strengthens communities in every region of Massachusetts. In fact, the University of Massachusetts is one of the state's largest economic engines, generating $4 billion in economic activity each year, with every $1 of state support helping the university generate more than $8 in positive economic activity.

A 2006 report, UMass: A Strategic Investment: A Critical Asset for the Commonwealth's Economic Future, shows how the University's broad economic impact in all regions of the Commonwealth distinguishes it from the state's other institutions of higher education. For example:

• UMass serves as an engine of innovation that creates new businesses and helps existing businesses to compete. UMass is a $2 billion enterprise, with 15,000 employees - making it one of the top 10 employers in Massachusetts - generating $377 million in research and development investments and is the site of three recently awarded, highly competitive national research centers.
• UMass plays a lead role in developing the Commonwealth's number one resource - talent. With more than 57,000 students enrolled annually, UMass educates more Massachusetts residents than any other higher education institution. Every year, the five-campus system graduates 11,000 students - more than 60 percent of whom stay to live and work in the Commonwealth.
• Beyond the bottom line, UMass strengthens the social fabric of the Commonwealth by supporting neighborhoods and providing arts and cultural activities for thousands of people across the state.

In 2007, UMass research expenditures surpassed $403 million. Enrollment in fall 2007 surpassed 60,000 students. For more examples of the University's role in economic development, read In Brief, the President's semi-annual newsletter for economic development.

For more information about economic development at UMass, contact the appropriate party below:

UMass Amherst
Marla Michel, Director, Research Liaison and Development
Phone: 413-545-2706 E-mail: marla@research.umass.edu

UMass Boston
John Ciccarelli, Assistant to the Chancellor for Economic Development
Phone: 617-287-7893  E-mail: john.ciccarelli@umb.edu

UMass Dartmouth
Paul Vigeant, Assistant Chancellor for Economic Development
Phone: 508-999-9143  E-mail: pvigeant@umassd.edu

UMass Lowell
Jacqueline Moloney, Associate Chancellor
Phone: 978-934-2943  E-Mail: jacqueline_moloney@uml.edu

UMass Medical School, Worcester
Brendan Chisholm, Director, Health Sciences Initiatives
Phone: 508-856-4031  E-mail: brendan.chisholm@umassmed.edu

In addition, the University is an active partner in the Commonwealth's Business Resource Team (BRT), which provides a single point of contact for businesses looking to expand or start new operations in Massachusetts. The BRT is a one-stop shop which aggregates government and other economic development programs and services, making them easier to access and providing a higher level of service to businesses. Contact the BRT.

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