New Report Shows DU Contributes $2.3 Billion to Colorado’s Economy
The study details the annual impact on campus and nearby neighborhoods, the city of Denver and the state of Colorado.
The University of Denver generates an economic impact of $2.3 billion annually to the state of Colorado, according to a report released by EConsult Solutions, Inc. (ESI).
The study, which looked at DU’s annual operations, capital investments, alumni wage contributions, and student, visitor and athletics spending, covered three geographic areas: the campus region, the city of Denver and the state of Colorado.
In Denver alone, DU’s economic impact is $1.3 billion, including $6 million in revenue generated for the city. For the state of Colorado, the University generates $38 million and supports 11,800 full-time employees.
“We have always known about the tremendous impact our students, faculty and alumni make in our community,” says Chancellor Jeremy Haefner. “And this economic impact report is a testament to how the University of Denver enriches Colorado. Especially at a time when higher education’s benefit and value are increasingly under question, this report shows how universities fuel local economies, in addition to preparing the next generation of educated, ethical and compassionate leaders.”
How DU Students and Alumni Drive Local Workforce Growth
More than 200 academic programs support 13,400 undergraduate and graduate students, with 70% coming from out of state and 70% electing to stay in Colorado post-graduation. DU alumni who are living and working in Colorado have a total economic impact of $986 million and generate a total tax revenue of $26 million.
“The University of Denver was the first post-secondary institution in the Rocky Mountain Region, and for 160 years, it has been preparing our future leaders,” says Colorado Governor Jared Polis. “DU’s impact, not only in Denver but across Colorado, helps drive our state’s workforce and economy for the future.”
Visitors, Athletics and Events: A $201 Million Boost to Denver
The DU campus serves as a cornerstone of the local community as well as an attractive destination for visitors from outside the area. Visits by prospective students and important University functions like commencement, move-in weekend and homecoming bring more than 26,000 visitors to Denver annually. Visitors spend over $34 million in food, transportation, retail and lodging. The University’s 18 Division I athletic programs attract an additional 287,500 visitors to campus annually, generating $201 million in economic impact.
To view the complete economic and social impact report, click here.
