The University of Michigan’s federal grants played a crucial role in supporting over 16,000 jobs and driving nearly $396 million in research-related spending across the United States last year. These funds reached vendors in more than 600 counties and over 400 congressional districts, demonstrating the expansive impact of U-M’s research initiatives. Michigan businesses particularly benefited, with over $164 million directed to local companies, including $78.5 million to Washtenaw County for essential research materials and services.
U-M’s research expenditures positively influenced communities throughout Michigan, benefiting businesses in all 13 congressional districts through direct federal project-related purchases. Notably, Michigan’s 6th Congressional District experienced the highest economic impact, with more than $79 million in research spending.
According to Jason Owen-Smith, executive director of the Institute for Research on Innovation & Science, “IRIS data show that federal investment in the university’s research enterprise does more than support discovery. It invests in opportunities and well-being for communities across Michigan.” These investments extend beyond campus, enhancing the economy through the procurement of goods, industry partnerships, and workforce training.
Federal grants in 2025 supported over 16,000 individuals at U-M, including a significant proportion of students. Students accounted for 43% of the research workforce, illustrating the critical role of these funds in training future scientists and engineers. The National Science Foundation and National Institutes of Health were pivotal, with the former supporting 59% of student researchers and the latter funding over 9,100 employees, including nearly 700 postdoctoral researchers.
Federal agencies like the National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation, U.S. Department of Energy, NASA, and U.S. Department of Defense are key to advancing medical, technological, and defense research at U-M. These efforts bolster the nation’s innovation economy while providing substantial benefits to businesses nationwide.
Arthur Lupia, vice president for research and innovation, remarked, “Research universities like U-M are not only engines of discovery, they are also powerful drivers of economic opportunity across Michigan and beyond.” The federal investments in U-M research create ripple effects that bolster businesses, strengthen communities, and prepare a skilled workforce for future demands.
As a leading public research university, U-M continues to foster economic growth and innovation, preparing the workforce for the future.
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