three people watching the sunset from Spencer Butte in Eugene

Leading for Oregon

The UO creates $3.7 billion in economic impact for Oregon, report shows

A 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.

As 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.

The 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.

“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.”
— UO President Karl Scholz

$1 ⇒ $15.22

For every $1 invested by the state, the UO provides $15.22 in economic impact.

21,500+

The UO creates and sustains more than 21,500 jobs for Oregonians.

$238M

The UO generates $238 million in tax revenue each year, critical funds to meet the needs of all Oregonians.

Innovation and Research

UO research alone, in fields such as education, science and more, generates nearly half a billion dollars in economic impact and sustains 3,738 jobs.

Plus, over the past five years, UO has generated $46 million in technology-transfer revenue and $7.8 million in innovation income.

During that same window, 26 new patents were filed and five spinout companies launched, bringing the total to 23 active UO-affiliated startups.

A researcher positions a sensor on a model of a human knee

From 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.

two people work on the interior of a mass plywood prototype house

Via 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.

Lalo Guerrero gestures to a geological map

UO leads a major earthquake research center that is working to make the Pacific Northwest more prepared for a future mega-quake.

Job Growth and Workforce Development

UO generates over 21,000 jobs for Oregonians — that’s 1 of every 100 jobs in the state.

Beyond campus, UO graduates support an additional 760,000 jobs in the statewide economy.

UO alumni generate an additional $143 billion economic contributions to Oregon’s economy.

The 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.

For almost 30 years, the Knight Campus Graduate Internship Program has trained students for well-paying careers in scientific industry, many at Oregon companies.

Civic and Alumni Leadership

With 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.

UO 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.

students and faculty pose underneath a wooden structure they created

Sustainable 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.

Eugene’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.

Scoring Big as a National and Global Destination

UO 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.

a crowd watching a football game at Autzen Stadium

It never rains at Autzen! The football stadium is a destination for the Ducks’ global fan base, and also hosts major university milestones like Commencement.