In 2018, ESI was commissioned by the University of Delaware (UD) to assess and evaluate the economic and social impacts of the institution’s operations. More specifically, ESI estimated the impact of the University’s annual operations, its capital investments, the student and visitor spending it attracts, and the additional earnings potential it confers on its graduates.
UD is the largest university in Delaware, with campuses in Newark, Dover, Wilmington, Lewes and Georgetown. The University is dedicated to education, research, service, and innovation, and focused on strengthening partnerships that build on these core aspects of its mission. UD prides itself on graduating scholars, serving its community, and developing life-changing research and innovations that produce a significant return on investment to both the City of Newark and the State of Delaware.
Our report identified the unique characteristics that define UD and expresses them in economic and social impact terms and, where possible, quantifies those impacts locally, statewide, and regionally.
ESI found that within the State of Delaware, UD produces $2.8 billion a year in total economic impact, supports 24,450 jobs, and generates $86 million in State tax revenues. This impact means that for every dollar the State invests in UD, the University produces $23 in economic activity within the state.