U of S Publishes Economic Impact Study

Posted September 26, 2000


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ? September 26, 2000 2000-09-15-OTHER


U of S Publishes Economic Impact Study

The University of Saskatchewan contributed around $747.3 million to the
local economy representing 20% of the City's gross income in 1998-1999,
according to its biannual economic study released today.

The findings confirm that the University currently has the greatest impact
on the City of Saskatoon compared to any other organization.

The amount includes the total direct impact of purchases made locally by the
university complex, its employees, students and visitors, and the indirect
expenditures stimulated by those direct purchases.

The University complex includes federated colleges, Royal University
Hospital, federal research agencies, Wanuskewin Heritage Park and Innovation
Place, one of the most successful research parks in North America.

A summary of findings for 1998-99 are as follows:

-$137 million paid out in salaries and wages;
-$32 million paid out for goods and services purchased locally;
-$157 million spent locally by U of S students locally;
-$216 million paid out in salaries and purchases by associated
organizations, $101.1 million of which was generated by Innovation Place;
-Attracted $100 million in research funds;
-$10.7 million spent by out-of-town visitors on local accommodation, food
and travel expenses;
-17,650 local full-time jobs generated; 18% of the city?s employees;

Peter MacKinnon, University President, said: "The University is a major
centre for education, research and services and as such plays a vital role
in the economic and cultural life of Saskatoon, the province and its people.


"For every $1 million of provincial grant, the University returns over $4.5
million to the provincial economy. This contribution to the local and
provincial communities makes us a sound investment."


For further information or a copy of the brochure, contact:

Barrie Dubray
University Studies Group
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-7812

or

Tina Merrifield
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2213