Economic Development

Since 1949, agencies of the University of Tennessee’s Institute for Public Service (IPS) have linked university-based expertise to help community and business leaders enhance their economic competitiveness.

IPS helps companies, entrepreneurs, organizations, and cities and counties across the state access university expertise, resources and intellectual assets to help advance the economic well being of Tennessee and create and retain quality job opportunities. The economic development assistance of IPS is carried out by its agencies, including the Center for Industrial Services, the County Technical Assistance Service, the Law Enforcement Innovation Center and the Municipal Technical Advisory Service in partnership with other organizations within and outside the University of Tennessee system.

IPS’ economic development agenda supports the mission of the University of Tennessee to be a driver for economic development across Tennessee. The University’s Economic Development Initiative is co-chaired by Dr. Mary Jinks, vice president of public service, and Dr. Tim Cross, dean of extension, UT Institute of Agriculture. Working collaboratively with deans and other Leaders from across the UT system, the Economic Development Initiative seeks to highlight the ongoing activities and projects that contribute to Tennessee’s economy, identify new opportunities for economic growth, and collaborate with local, regional and state agencies and groups to serve Tennessee residents throughout the state.

News and Announcements

UT Report Connects Energy Efficiency to Economic Growth

Tennesseans have a general sense of what should be done to capitalize on the economic opportunities associated with energy, according to a new report from The University of Tennessee. more...

Community Forums Report Now Available

The University of Tennessee Institute for Public Service and University of Tennessee Extension are pleased to release the results of the 2009 Southern Growth Policies Board community forums in Tennessee. more...

UT Shares Economic Development Principles with Local Leaders

Thirty-seven economic development practitioners and community leaders have completed the Tennessee Basic Economic Development Course (TBEDC) sponsored by the University of Tennessee Institute for Public Service (IPS).  more...

National Organization Lauds Economic Development Projects

Two agencies within the University of Tennessee Institute for Public Service (IPS) have been recognized by the University Economic Development Association (UEDA)for economic development projects. more...

Entrepreneurship Report Shows Importance of Small Business to Tennessee’s Economy

Entrepreneurs have been playing an important role in Tennessee’s economy, generating more than $23 billion, or 12 percent of total personal income, in 2006. more...

Economic Development Publications

To access all economic development publications, click here