(Hammond, Westville) - Purdue University Northwest has been designated as an Innovation and Economic Prosperity University by the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities.

 

The IEP designation is an acknowledgment for public research universities with strong evidence of collaboration with public and private sector partners to support economic development, innovation, entrepreneurship, technology transfer, talent and workforce development, and community development.

 

The designation is a significant mark of excellence for PNW that recognizes its mission as a metropolitan university and its proven impactful change for its surrounding communities.

 

“What has long made Purdue Northwest a unique and leading university in our region is its commitment to serve Northwest Indiana and support its growth as a prime destination to work and live,” said PNW Chancellor Thomas L. Keon.

 

“Purdue Northwest’s high-quality resources help catalyze initiatives with community partners that meet that goal. The university plays a leading part in charting a path forward for our neighboring communities,” he said.

 

The designation puts PNW in esteemed company with other major research institutions across the country. PNW became the third IEP in Indiana, joining Purdue University in West Lafayette and Indiana University Bloomington.

 

The designation was awarded following an independent panel review of PNW’s application, which included an internal review and analysis of economic engagement activities conducted with outside stakeholder input.

 

Several areas of institutional strength in economic engagement were identified. These included:

 

• PNW’s Commercialization and Manufacturing Excellence Center catalyzes economic development and technological transfer for Northwest Indiana through product commercialization and related training for manufacturing companies. The future Roberts Impact Lab at PNW will be a workspace for entrepreneurship, innovation, and education collaboration.

 

• Applied doctoral programs, particularly PNW’s Doctor of Technology, offers candidates an opportunity to do applied research and provide innovative solutions to the industry.

 

• Over $30 million in sponsored research over the past three years, a total not matched by other mid-size or regional institutions in Indiana.

 

• Involvement in regional boards and economic development initiatives, such as Legacy Foundation; One Region; and the Northwest Indiana Forum.

 

• Status as an emerging Hispanic-Serving Institution, a testament to the diverse and inclusive learning environment PNW strives to foster.

An economic impact study conducted by a third party showed that PNW contributes nearly $746 million in total income to Northwest Indiana or 2% of the gross regional product. The university also supports 10,494 jobs in Northwest Indiana or one out of every 36 jobs. PNW impacts top local industries in health care and social assistance; government; education; construction; and professional and technical services.