The Impact of West Virginia University Federal Research Grant Funding on the State’s Economy

This report evaluates the economic impact of federal research funding received by West Virginia University’s four campuses. In 2023, WVU secured $148 million in federal research grants (excluding Facilities and Ad ministrative Costs), supporting approximately 3,171 jobs and contributing $250.2 million to West Virginia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), including $92.1 million in labor income. Around 30% of the labor income and 42% of the GDP impact extended beyond host counties through supply chains and local labor markets. Using an expanded definition of research that includes public outreach, training, and curriculum-related grants, the analysis reveals that every $1.00 of federal research spending generates an additional $1.69 in GDP and $0.62 in labor income across the state. These findings underscore the vital role of federally funded university research in fostering economic development in West Virginia.