Economic Impact Report

Contact Us 

Chancellor's Office
Email: chancellor@uwrf.edu
Phone: 715-425-3201

University Marketing and Communications
Email: umc@uwrf.edu
Phone: 715-425-3771

Survey Research Center
Email: src@uwrf.edu
Phone: 715-425-4226

UWRF's $295 million annual impact on regional economy 

The UW-River Falls 2026 Economic Impact Study shows that, by a conservative estimate, UWRF generates approximately $295 million in annual economic output for Pierce and St. Croix counties, accounting for 19% of the region’s gross domestic product. 

“The surrounding community and its members contribute immeasurably to the success of UW-River Falls and our students,” said Interim Chancellor John Chenoweth. “We are proud to be able to demonstrate—even conservatively—how much UWRF contributes to the vitality of our regional economy.” 

The report, compiled by the Survey Research Center (SRC) at UWRF, estimates spending in the region that would not have happened if the UWRF campus did not exist.  

In addition to preparing students for the future and providing a skilled workforce, UWRF serves as a major economic engine by attracting students and spending from outside the region, retaining local students who otherwise may have left the area and supporting local businesses through employee and student expenditures. 

19%

UWRF accounts for approximately 19% of regional GDP

2,334

UWRF creates or retains 2,334 jobs in the region

$16.9M

Students spend $16.9M in the local economy each year

UWRF Section Separator


Overall Economic Impact

Two major components of this estimate include spending by UWRF students who either moved to the region or stayed in the region to attend UWRF ($16.9 million) and spending conducted by UWRF on operations and capital purchases ($101.4 million). 

The River Falls downtown area. Main street with trees lining it and several businesses are visible.

Student spending includes categories such as food and drink at restaurants, groceries, rent, shopping, entertainment and gasoline, among others. UWRF campus spending included staff wages and benefits, other operating expenses and capital spending such as equipment, vehicles and construction.

 

a photo of the St. Croix Valley Business Innovation Center building

Job Creation and Workforce Impact

  • The study found that UWRF is responsible for creating or retaining 2,334 full-time equivalent jobs in the region. 
  • This represents at least 6% of regional employment and generates $152.4 million annually in wages, salaries and benefits for local workers and business owners.  

 

 

Impact is Likely Higher

Several significant economic contributions were not captured in the report, meaning the actual economic impact is likely higher. These factors include: 

  • Visitor spending from commencement, athletics and campus events. 
  • Economic contributions of UW-River Falls alumni working in the region. 
  • Local impacts of university interest payments. 
a photo of the crowd at Commencement. GRaduates are seated in chairs on the gym floor, while families and attendees fill the stands.

 

Headshot of John Chenoweth
“We are beyond grateful for the support of the people of western Wisconsin and we are thrilled to be able to contribute to the economic well-being of our communities. We soar higher together.”
John Chenoweth, Interim Chancellor, UW-River Falls


What Our Partners Say About The UWRF Impact

a woman wearing a navy sweater, printed blouse and blue jeans sits on a blue chair
“It’s clear that the impact of UW-River Falls extends far beyond the university boundaries and this region would not be what it is without this great institution. The university, its students and staff are key to the success of local businesses, industry and more, and are key to economic development growth and sustainability in the area.”
Melissa Meschke, Executive Director of the St. Croix Economic Development Corporation
Kevin Pieh head shot. A white male with short brown hair and brown facial hair. He's standing in front of trees and wearing a navy blue sweater
"UW-River Falls plays an important role in preparing students for successful careers by providing unique real-world experiences and opportunities to connect with local businesses. Several of our employees have graduated from UWRF and others have gained valuable knowledge through the university’s dairy workshops, short courses, and hands-on experience at the Dairy Pilot Plant. We are very grateful for our relationship with UWRF and the strong impact it has on our industry and local community."
Kevin Pieh, Chief Executive Officer, Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery
Lauren Highfill head shot. A woman with long blonde hair and an aqua colored blazer.
The University of Wisconsin-River Falls remains an essential partner and cornerstone of regional development. The university's contributions and impact on our local economy and quality of life are pivotal to Pierce County’s economic success."
Lauren Highfill, Executive Director of the Pierce County Economic Development Corporation.