AAU universities serve as economic engines for their communities and regions. In fulfilling their research, education, and service missions, these institutions fuel economic growth and drive innovation. They employ thousands of workers, including many students; provide well-educated graduates who acquire high-paying jobs in private industry and the public sector; develop innovative technologies that spark new businesses and start-up companies; and generate revenue that expands the tax base. AAU works with its member institutions to help them maximize and highlight their economic contributions to their local and regional communities and the nation.
AAU, in partnership with the Association of Public & Land-grant Universities (APLU), published a report for universities that are studying and communicating about how they contribute to economic development and advancing their economic engagement.
The Institute for Research on Innovation & Science (IRIS) is the major national source for data to support fundamental research on the results of public and private investments in discovery, innovation, and education.