A new report by the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania estimates that private universities in northwest Pennsylvania have a $1.2 billion impact on the local economy. 

The institutions included in the northwest region are Allegheny College, Gannon University, Grove City College, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Mercyhurst University, and Thiel College. 

They support 8,221 jobs and generate more than $61 million in state and local tax revenue. 

The report outlines some of their contributions. For example, Allegheny College launched the Allegheny Lab for Innovation and Creativity at Allegheny College. It provides programs and resources for workforce training.

LECOM donated over 21 thousand volunteer hours during the 2023-2024 academic year, the report said. 

Gannon University was noted for having a Small Business Development Center.

“Gannon University has always been deeply connected to the health of our region,” Gannon President Walter Iwanenko, Ph.D., said in a statement. “Beyond educating the next generation of leaders and professionals, we support local jobs, fuel innovation and invest in projects that strengthen Erie and the communities we serve. We are proud to be both an anchor institution and a committed partner in building a vibrant future together.”

The report is based on data from 2023.