News Summary
A recent economic impact study shows that Clemson University contributes over $6.4 billion to South Carolina’s economy, creating approximately 37,100 jobs statewide. The report highlights significant financial inputs from university operations, research activities, and student spending. Clemson’s influence is particularly strong in the Upstate region, where it supports around 27,900 jobs and adds $4.9 billion locally. The university’s strategic initiatives, including its Clemson Elevate plan, aim to further enhance economic development and workforce growth across the state.
South Carolina’s Economy Boosted by Clemson University
An independent economic impact study has revealed that Clemson University contributes over $6.4 billion to South Carolina’s economy. Conducted by Econsult Solutions Inc., the findings were presented during a Board of Trustees meeting on February 6, 2025. This significant financial contribution is attributed to various factors including university operations, capital investments, workforce development, athletic events, and spending by students and visitors.
The study indicates that for every dollar invested in the university, approximately $35 in economic output is generated. This sprawling economic ecosystem translates to the creation of roughly 37,100 jobs statewide and produces an annual state tax revenue of $114.4 million.
Regional Impact
Clemson’s influence is notably pronounced in the Upstate region of South Carolina, where it adds $4.9 billion to the local economy and supports around 27,900 jobs. The university plays a pivotal role in enhancing research, promoting workforce development, and encouraging collaborations across industries to bolster the state’s economic landscape.
Wider Economic Contributions
The national economic impact of Clemson extends to $10.6 billion, supporting a total of 54,000 jobs across the United States. In the past decade, Clemson has remarkably doubled its research activities, with research and development expenditures totaling $334 million for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.
Graduate Outcomes and Workforce Development
A significant percentage of Clemson graduates, approximately 58%, choose to stay in South Carolina after completing their studies. Moreover, data shows that 97% of graduates are either employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation. The median 10-year earnings for these alumni is around $72,000, which is higher than that of graduates from comparable institutions.
Clemson’s Research Focus
The research initiatives at Clemson target essential South Carolina industries, including automotive, energy, manufacturing, health, education, and agriculture. The university strategically operates innovation campuses, research centers, and extension offices across the state to enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of research resources.
Strategic Goals
In alignment with its mission, Clemson has developed a strategic plan titled Clemson Elevate, which aims to create meaningful economic impacts throughout the state. This plan emphasizes the university’s commitment to improving the quality of life and promoting economic prosperity through collaborative efforts involving local industries, state agencies, and educational entities.
Conclusion
Clemson University’s substantial economic impact underscores its crucial role in fostering growth and sustainability within South Carolina. The university’s dedication to excellence in education and research directly contributes to the state’s vibrant economy and workforce development, while also maintaining a broad national relevance in job creation and economic output.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- The State
- Wikipedia: South Carolina
- Colatoday
- Google Search: South Carolina economy
- Ramsey Solutions
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
- Greenville Business Mag
- Google Scholar: Clemson University economic impact
- Forbes
- Google News: Clemson University
- iHeart
- Google Search: job opportunities in South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
