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UNO’s $1 Billion Boost to Nebraska: New Report Highlights Economic Impact

A new study reveals UNO’s massive $1 billion economic impact on Nebraska, reinforcing the university’s role as a key driver of jobs, innovation, and community growth.

  • published: 2025/02/11
  • contact: Sam Peshek - Office of Strategic Marketing and Communications
  • email: unonews@unomaha.edu
he Downtown Omaha skyline from the Gene Leahy Mall at The RiverFront. Photo: Ryan Soderlin, University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) Office of Strategic Marketing and Communications.

he Downtown Omaha skyline from the Gene Leahy Mall at The RiverFront. Photo: Ryan Soderlin, University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) Office of Strategic Marketing and Communications.

The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) isn’t just a great value for students.


➡️ What’s new: UNO generated $1 billion in economic impact for Nebraska in fiscal year 2024, according to a report by national research firm Tripp Umbach. The study, commissioned by the University of Nebraska System, analyzed the university’s contributions in spending, employment, tax revenue, and philanthropy.


💡 Why it matters: UNO’s economic footprint extends far beyond the classroom. The university fuels Nebraska’s economy by supporting thousands of jobs, attracting investments, and fostering workforce development. With more than 8,000 jobs supported statewide, $28 million in tax revenue generated, and record-breaking philanthropic giving, UNO is strengthening the state’s future.


📊 By the numbers:

  • Overall impact: UNO generated a $1 billion economic impact for Nebraska in FY24, including $213 million in direct spending and $787 million in indirect and induced impacts.

  • Employment impact: UNO’s operations directly support 4,575 jobs, with an additional 3,799 jobs created through indirect and induced effects.

  • Record-breaking philanthropy: In 2023-2024, UNO secured $57 million in private support, including major gifts such as $20 million for the Scott Scholars Program and $14 million for the Weitz Innovation and Excellence Fund.

  • Statewide business support: UNO’s Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) served 2,017 clients, created/retained 180 jobs, and helped secure $298 million in government contracts across all three congressional districts.


🎤 What they’re saying:

  • Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., NU System President: “The University of Nebraska is one of the most important investments we can make in the future of our state. From the jobs we create to the workforce we educate and the research we produce, our university is helping move Nebraska forward in meaningful ways. For every $1 the state invests in the University of Nebraska, we generate $10 in economic activity—an extraordinary return on investment.”

  • Joanne Li, Ph.D., CFA, UNO Chancellor: “UNO’s momentum as an engine for workforce development is undeniable. This $1 billion impact is the result of a shared commitment by our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners to improve the quality of life, not just in Omaha, but across the entire state. Together, we are driving innovation, expanding opportunities, and shaping Nebraska’s future.”


🌎 The big picture: UNO’s mission as Nebraska’s premier metropolitan university is to educate, innovate, and serve. This report highlights UNO’s commitment to economic and workforce development—critical pillars of its strategic vision.


🧑‍💻 Read more: Recent headlines about UNO’s value and impact:



Report: UNO Alumni Fuel $2.4 Billion Boost to Omaha’s Economy

July 30, 2025

More than 79,000 Maverick alumni in the Omaha area are powering local businesses, driving tax revenue, and shaping Nebraska’s future.

📝 Read the article

"$2.44B in total economic impact generated by UNO alumni in the Omaha metro in 2024" overlaid on an aerial view of campus.


About the University of Nebraska at Omaha

Located in one of America’s best cities to live, work and learn, the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is Nebraska’s premier metropolitan university. With more than 15,000 students enrolled in 200-plus programs of study, UNO is recognized nationally for its online education, graduate education, military friendliness and community engagement efforts. Founded in 1908, UNO has served learners of all backgrounds for more than 100 years and is dedicated to another century of excellence both in the classroom and in the community.

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