In 2023, ESI was commissioned by Providence College Athletics to conduct an economic and social impact study. Providence College competes primarily in the Big East Conference with 19 Division I teams and over 400 student-athletes.
Using industry-standard economic modeling from IMPLAN, ESI calculated the direct, indirect, and induced impacts of the athletics program in the city of Providence and the state of Rhode Island, finding that the statewide economic impact totaled $100.3 million. Additionally, ESI examined the Athletics program’s campus and community impact.
Direct spending includes annual operating and capital expenditures, and the full-time equivalent jobs funded by them. ESI found that the direct spending supports an estimated $54 million of economic activity and 260 full time jobs in Rhode Island, with approximately $34 million of impact and 140 full time jobs located in Providence.
When looking at the visitor spending associated with Athletics events, ESI found that the program draws more than 400,000 visitors annually, who spend roughly $34 million in Providence. This generates an annual economic impact of $46 million and supports 370 jobs in the state.
ESI also noted the value that ancillary spending has on the Rhode Island economy. Licensed merchandise, media buys, and dollars associated with Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals also generate economic impacts. While some of the data is proprietary, the local impact still exists.
Lastly, ESI discussed the social impact of the Athletics program on campus and in the community. Institutions with successful athletics programs were able to garner greater private contributions than those without them. Among other impacts, 280 student-athletes completed 2,800 hours of community service in 2023, which was eighth among NCAA Division I schools.