Study shows public universities drive billions into the state’s economy

KOCHVILLE TWP., Mich. (WNEM) – A study shows Michigan’s public universities do far more than educating students. They drive jobs, investment and long-term economic growth statewide.

“We as public universities are very proud of the work that we do,” said J.J. Boehm, Saginaw Valley State University spokesperson. “And the benefits that our graduates provide.”

Michigan’s public universities are driving billions into the state’s economy. An independent study released Tuesday shows they generate nearly 45 billion dollars in economic activity statewide.

“Having SVSU and the other public universities produce highly qualified college graduates is vital to our economic prosperity,” said Boehm.

The report said that impact translates into billions in tax revenue and a massive return on public investment, supporting communities far beyond campus borders. Money invested in universities multiplies, fueling jobs, research, and local business growth.

“That’s one of the leading ways in which SVSU is making an economic impact in our region and in our state,” said Boehm.

Statewide, universities are credited with supporting nearly 130,000 jobs, directly and indirectly, across health care, manufacturing, technology, and energy.

That impact is felt locally at Saginaw Valley State University.

“In our region, whether that’s Dow, Covenant, MyMichigan, Nexteer, whomever it might be; each of those organizations has hundreds of SVSU graduates,” said Boehm.

SVSU leaders said partnerships with regional employers help prepare students for the workforce, while keeping talent and opportunity in Mid-Michigan.

“Those organizations are more successful because of the contributions of SVSU alumni,” said Boehm.

For students, that connection matters.

“They help me a lot, especially with staying in school,” said Kajsha Shelton, SVSU sophomore. “I feel like your resources make you want to stay.”

Students like Marcell Mason and Ladarion Andrews said they plan to stay in Michigan after graduating, even if it means returning to their hometowns first.

“I don’t really want to move away from my family, so I can help them out,” said Andrews.

“My plan is to stay at least for like two years and getting my career started,” said Mason.

Leaders said the goal is keeping graduates in state, strengthening local economies, and building long-term growth.

“In the world that our children are going to inherit, that education is going to be vital to make sure that they have the opportunities that they want,” said Boehm.

The report estimates the return from universities is 28 times greater than the $1.6 billion they received in the 2024 State budget.

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