Fresno State is one of 16 universities singled out today for its commitment to economic engagement by the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU). The APLU named Fresno State to its first class of Innovation and Economic Prosperity Universities.

The designation acknowledges universities working with public and private sector partners in their regions to support economic development through a variety of activities, including innovation and entrepreneurship, technology transfer, talent and workforce development and community development.

“The APLU Innovation and Economic Prosperity Award shines a spotlight on the broad spectrum of work we do to promote economic engagement and prosperity in Central California,” said Fresno State President Joseph I. Castro. “We are proud of our engagement and honored to be selected for this prestigious designation.”

The 16 institutions that make up the inaugural class of Innovation & Economic Prosperity Universities are: Boise State University, Fresno State, Northern Illinois University, The Ohio State University, The State University of New York, University of Central Florida, University of Cincinnati, University of Georgia, University of Idaho, University of Memphis, University of Michigan, University of Minnesota, University of Missouri, University of Oklahoma, University of Toledo and Washington State University.

“We’re helping to provide tools to universities to help them become even more economically engaged with their communities, which is a core value of public institutions,” said APLU President Peter McPherson. “Universities are economic engines that not only directly employ people, but also generate research-based innovation and technical expertise that allow businesses to start up, grow and thrive. This designation recognizes universities that are really stepping up to strengthen their local economy.”

Fresno State supports economic development with several programs, centers and institutes including the Lyles Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Office of Community and Economic Development, Kenneth L. Maddy Institute, Central Valley Business Incubator, Laval Water and Energy Technology Center and the Regional Jobs Initiative.

APLU is a research, policy and advocacy organization representing 219 public research universities, land-grant institutions, state university systems and related organizations. Founded in 1887, APLU is the nation’s oldest higher education association with member institutions in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and four U.S. territories.

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