Sunflower field with one sunflower in focus

Economic Development Strategic Plan

The university's Economic Development Strategic Plan articulates three key strategies to pursue of our ultimate goal — to create jobs, wealth and mobility for Kansans.


Our Strategies

Strategy 1: Readying Jayhawks for the Kansas workforce

We will enhance curricula, career support, and experiential opportunities for students. Where appropriate, we will align these initiatives with the guidance of local companies. These strategic community partnerships will allow us to better prepare Jayhawks for the needs unique to our state’s workforce, fostering stronger incentives to stay in Kansas and contribute to our economy.

Architecture students work together with their instructor on a prototype.

Strategy 2: Fostering innovation and entrepreneurship

We will create an institutional culture that celebrates and supports entrepreneurship and socially powerful research. Jayhawk innovation and KU-led startups continue to positively affect the Kansas economy. Our mission is to communicate that influence and provide a supportive infrastructure that encourages students and faculty toward their own entrepreneurial initiatives.

A student works in a molecular biosciences lab

Strategy 3: Partnering with industry, community and federal agency leaders

We will stimulate market-driven research through stronger partnerships with government, industry, and our regional communities. Sponsored research and technology advancement keep KU on the cutting edge. Additionally, building on our already-strong relationships with our external partners reinforces our role as a leader in innovation.

Two men smiling during the Chancellor's Research Symposium

KU economic development at work

$275.4M
in externally funded research
3,800+
federally funded research employees
$27M
annual KU Innovation Park payroll
445
private-sector jobs created
KU Innovation Park building

Contact us

To learn more about our office’s mission and how you can help, contact Tricia Bergman at tricia.bergman@ku.edu or 785-864-3303.

Email us