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. Charles Goan, 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 discusses needs and opportunities for youth development

Tennesseans want to find new ways to help the state’s 2.2 million youth reach their potential, according to a new report from the University of Tennessee. more...

IPS Supports Tennessee Basic Economic Development Course

The Institute for Public Service collaborated with the Tennessee Leadership Center to sponsor, design and implement the second annual Tennessee Basic Economic Development Course more...

IPS Shares Results of Tennessee Youth Development Forums

What do Tennessee and other southern states need to do to develop our youth, the real future of the South? more...

More Than 500 Attend Sustainable Tourism Summit

Tennessee and North Carolina officials came together in April to offer the Great Smoky Mountains Sustainable Tourism Summit in Knoxville. more...

Tennessee Basic Economic Development Course to be held in Nashville

The UT Institute for Public Service is partnering with the Tennessee Leadership Center to offer the second annual Tennessee Basic Economic Development Course.  more...