About IPS
Statewide Service
We provide university expertise for communities and workplaces by consulting with government, law enforcement and industry leaders, among others.
Economic Impact
In fiscal year 2023, IPS services contributed more than $2.8 billion to Tennessee’s economy, as local governments and industries increased revenue, won contracts or reduced operating costs.
Community Legacy
For over 50 years, IPS agencies have led the university’s outreach efforts, extending critical services to all communities in the state.
Former University of Tennessee President Dr. Edward J. Boling had a vision to create an institute that would take university expertise to governments and industries across Tennessee, much like the UT Institute of Agriculture assisted the farming and agricultural industries.
His idea was to bring technical assistance, applied research, consulting services, information and training to Tennesseans. As a result of his vision, the UT Board of Trustees formed the Institute for Public Service at a specially held meeting on August 18, 1971.
Boling’s recommendation was that IPS encompass all of the functions of its component organizations and would provide:
- a system-wide focal point for urban and public service;
- a means to coordinate the various system-level public service activities; and
- an organizational base for communication and program development that relates to outside service clientele of the university and the campuses of the university system.
Since 1971, IPS has become the umbrella organization for six agencies and the SMART Initiative. You can find IPS at work in every county across Tennessee!