The University of Minnesota is an engine of growth, knowledge and progress benefiting the people of Minnesota. Its 175-year history leaves so many contributions to celebrate. Check out just a few of them by the numbers below.

$11.5 billion

Chartered in 1851, the University now drives $11.5 billion in annual economic impact for Minnesota’s economy — benefiting both urban and rural communities — thanks to our five campuses in Crookston, Duluth, Morris, Rochester and the Twin Cities, along with Extension offices in all 87 counties.

By integrating our expertise in education, research, healthcare and community engagement, the University maximizes its contributions to Minnesota’s economy and social fabric, playing a pivotal role in fostering innovation, creating jobs, and developing solutions that benefit both current and future generations.

More than 300

Since 2006, the University has launched more than 300 startups, which have attracted more than $3.7 billion in investment capital while creating more than 2,000 jobs.

What’s more, three-quarters of University startups stay in Minnesota, directly fueling the local economy and creating jobs across the state. The University also ranks No. 2 in startup creation, No. 5 in new license deals and No. 6 in inventions disclosed among U.S. public universities.

Learn more in Technology Commercialization’s 2026 Annual Report.

Two-thirds

Since its creation in 1909, Extension’s economic influence extends beyond its programming. Two-thirds of Extension employees live and work outside the Twin Cities, contributing to their local economies.

In rural Minnesota, where small businesses and agricultural enterprises form the backbone of the economy, Extension plays a vital role in ensuring economic resilience, innovation and sustainability. Investments in Extension enhance Minnesota’s tourism, natural resources and horticulture industries.

More than 350,000

Starting with the first graduates in 1873, today, more than 350,000 University of Minnesota alumni live and work in Minnesota.

The University continues to strengthen communities through innovative partnerships with Minnesota employers, addressing workforce needs, expanding and upskilling talent and collaborating on knowledge creation that fosters long-term success and keeps businesses rooted in our state.

Learn more about the University of Minnesota Alumni Association.

70%

Whether you visit a doctor, dentist, pharmacist or veterinarian in Minnesota, there’s a 70% chance that they and other healthcare professionals were educated at the University.

Through historic firsts like establishing the only college of pharmacy in the state since 1892, and creating the first program of mortuary science at a state university in the U.S. in 1908, the University continues to be a healthcare leader.

The University also drives innovation in our health science programs across our campuses to address the healthcare workforce needs throughout Minnesota so that communities can have high-quality healthcare closer to home. We’re also expanding the healthcare workforce through new and expanded training programs and facilities in Duluth, Rochester and St. Cloud. 

More than 89,000

For 175 years, the University has contributed to Minnesota’s workforce and now supports and sustains more than 89,000 jobs statewide. This means that one in every 35 jobs in Minnesota is either directly provided by the University or supported because of its presence.

Learn more about the University of Minnesota’s history, impact and strategic plan through the 175th anniversary website, the Economic and Community Impact Report and Elevate Extraordinary 2030.