Mississippi State drives state’s economic engine

A recently released, multiyear study shows that Mississippi State University isn’t just shaping young minds. It’s providing an economic boon to the Magnolia State to the tune of $3.9 billion in annual economic impact.

It’s further proof that what happens in StarkVegas, doesn’t stay in Starkville. It shapes the state. It changes the world.

Through a report provided by the National Strategic Planning and Analysis Research Center at Mississippi State University, Bulldogs can now proudly point to specific positive, statewide impacts that come wrapped in maroon and white.

We’re making smart investments with our time and funding because, at Mississippi State, we put our money where our mouth is, and this Bulldog’s got bite.

Among the 3.9 billion reasons to be proud to be a Bulldog:

  • MSU delivers a 25:1 return on investment for every tax dollar received from state appropriations, generating more than $450 million in state and local tax revenue.
  • The university’s Office of Research and Economic Development boasts $320 million in annual research expenditures, ranking among the top 100 research universities in the U.S. and accounting for 53% of all research and development spending in Mississippi colleges and universities.
  • The MSU Division of Agriculture, Forestry and Veterinary Medicine contributes $1.7 billion through research, outreach and direct support to Mississippi’s agricultural and business sectors and sustains more than 43,500 statewide jobs.
  • The in-state network of more than 42,000 MSU alumni drives more than $1.2 billion in increased productivity and business activity.
  • Through daily expenses and spending, Bulldog students contribute $41.6 million to Mississippi’s economy.
  • MSU’s nearly 650,000 annual visitors generate $24.2 million in wages to support the tourism and hospitality sector.

As alumni, students, research partners, and government leaders continue to invest in our proven track record of making a big impact in Mississippi and around the world, Mississippi State will continue advancing its mission of service, learning and research to meet the needs of tomorrow.

By Susan Lassetter, Graphics provided by NSPARC