Wisconsin’s twenty private, nonprofit colleges and universities are more than educational institutions. They are vital contributors to the state’s economy, workforce, and civic life.

A recent economic impact study commissioned by the Wisconsin Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (WAICU) reveals that private colleges generated an impressive $5.4 billion for Wisconsin’s economy in 2024–2025.

This includes $2.71 billion in direct spending from college operations and purchases by students, employees, and visitors, plus an additional $2.72 billion in indirect and induced impacts rippling through other sectors. Our private colleges are major employers, with more than 18,600 faculty and staff directly employed and an estimated 39,242 jobs supported statewide through indirect and induced effects. When combined, WAICU member institutions rank among Wisconsin’s top ten employers. Despite their nonprofit status, these colleges generate $788 million in federal, state, and local tax revenue, including sales, income, and payroll taxes.

Collectively serving more than 52,800 students annually and offering degrees in 400 disciplines, our institutions prepare graduates for high-demand careers while fueling prosperity across Wisconsin. However, the impact doesn’t stop at graduation.

Approximately 236,000 alumni live and work in Wisconsin, contributing $41 billion in economic activity and $7.4 billion in annual tax revenue. These graduates strengthen communities and industries, ensuring Wisconsin retains top talent.

Private colleges deliver exceptional returns on investment, leveraging state tax dollars at a ratio of 161:1. Additionally, capital expenditures further amplify their economic footprint, generating $576 million in economic impact over five years and creating 1,244 jobs statewide.

Wisconsin’s private, nonprofit institutions are engines of opportunity, innovation, and community well-being.

Explore the full impact and individual college data through WAICU’s interactive Economic Impact Report Generator here.