AURP and Stiletto Release 2025 Economic Impact Report: The Power of North American Research Parks

AURP has released its 2025 Economic Impact Report, prepared in partnership with Stiletto: Make a Point, highlighting the critical role of communities of innovation in powering workforce solutions, advancing research commercialization, and driving regional and national economic impact.

According to the report, research parks, innovation districts, tech hubs and other communities of innovation across North America collectively deliver an impressive return on investment. Results show these unique communities generate impact.

Read our press release.

AURP extends sincere gratitude to Stiletto: Make a Point for their expertise in preparing this critical assessment. Their rigorous analysis of data across more than 160M SF of development provides actionable insights for policymakers, universities, and industry stakeholders.

Research parks and innovation districts have rebounded strongly post-pandemic, maintaining occupancy rates above 90% in many locations, compared to persistent double-digit vacancies in the broader commercial office market — highlighting the resilience of these communities, driven by sector clustering and innovation-focused tenants.

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Cummings Research Park

Sept. 22-24

We're days away for our I2RP launch in Huntsville for another dynamic, hands-on exploration of Cummings Research Park (CRP) —not only is it the nation’s second-largest research park, it's a cornerstone of the U.S. innovation economy.

Over three action-packed days, Insights into Research Parks will immerse attendees in people, partnerships, and possibilities that make CRP a model for thriving innovation ecosystems.

Engage with

• University and College Presidents,
• Huntsville Mayor and City Officials,
• F500 C-Suite Executives,
• Plus connect with your innovation ecosystem peers!

Learn more

Limited seats available!

Stay in the Loop! Catch up with Past Community Pulse Sessions 

MEMBERS

Our Community Pulse webinar series is a hit – and the buzz keeps growing!

October 9, 2:30 pm EDT

CLEANTECH COMMONS, TRENT UNIVERSITY

featuring Christopher Rooney,

Senior Director, Research and Innovation

Missed a session? Or want to rewatch your favorites? No problem.

All past Community Pulse webinars are available on demand.

Log in to the Member Portal on our website and click the "Community Pulse Webinar Recordings" link to catch up anytime!

THE COUNTDOWN IS ON!

In just a few weeks, the AURP 2025 International Conference will unfold at the prestigious University of Nevada, Las Vegas and the innovative Harry Reid Research & Technology Park.

This is your golden ticket to connect with the brightest minds from university research parks and innovation districts worldwide—an unparalleled opportunity to forge alliances that could spark global change!

Don’t let this chance slip through your fingers; secure your spot now and leap into the forefront of innovation and economic growth. Register today to ensure you’re part of this transformative experience where knowledge sharing will illuminate the path to a brighter future. Let’s make waves together—after all, innovation is best when shared!

Standard Rates through Oct 17

• Members $1095
• Non-members $1395

Don't forget special programming

*COI 101 Meet the Leaders (Nov 11)

*Leadership Roundtable (Nov 12)

*Clean Tech Caucus (Nov 14)

Durango Hotel

Rate $249/Night

Resort Fee: $40/Night

Ends Oct 17

Reserve your room before Oct 17

BOOK HERE

Explore how institutions, like UNLV, drive research and innovation that fuel local and global economies, and accelerate your park or district development through proven best practices for leveraging universities as innovation engines.

🔗 REGISTER TODAY

Resources & Announcements

U.S. Small Business Committee Chair Proposes One-Year Extension of SBIR/STTR Programs

Rep. Roger Williams (R-TX), Chair of the U.S. House Committee on Small Business, has introduced legislation to extend the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs for one year beyond their scheduled expiration on September 30, 2025. The extension ensures continued support for small businesses driving U.S. innovation while Congress works toward long-term reauthorization. Read more.

NSF Funds Quantum Cybersecurity Hub to Protect Chattanooga’s Power Grid

The NSF’s Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (NSF TIP) has awarded a $1.2 million planning grant to support the development of quantum-enabled cybersecurity for Chattanooga, TN’s municipal power infrastructure. The initiative will establish a QuantumGrid Innovation Hub — a test bed for startups, researchers and industry to advance quantum applications that protect electric grid security. Built on Chattanooga’s existing smart grid and quantum network, the project brings together local government, academia and industry to address technical barriers, foster economic growth and strengthen national infrastructure resilience. Read more.

Montgomery County (MD) Seeks Operator for Innovation Centers, Startup Support

The Montgomery County (MD) Government has released a RFP, seeking an experienced and visionary organization to manage the County’s four Innovation Centers (located in Germantown, Rockville, North Bethesda and Silver Spring), and expand the commercialization resources available to tech start-ups in these Centers and throughout the County. The selected partner will play a pivotal role in advancing the County’s position as one of the nation’s leading hubs for biotech and other advanced technologies and entrepreneurial growth. Proposals must be submitted by Sept. 22. Read more.

OSU-Cascades Seeks Developer for New Innovation District

Oregon State University–Cascades has launched a nationwide search for a lead developer to build the first phase of its future 24-acre Innovation District in Bend, OR. Designed to foster research, commercial innovation and student experiential learning, the district will feature labs, classrooms, retail, housing and outdoor gathering spaces. The selected partner will lease land from OSU and oversee the design, construction and management of up to five buildings, with the first two slated to begin construction in 2028. The district will target industries like outdoor products, energy systems, and biotech, aligning with regional economic priorities and OSU’s academic strengths. Read more.

Huntsville, AL (home of Cummings Research Park which is hosting AURP's I2RP this September 22-24) has been officially selected as the permanent headquarters for U.S. Space Command, solidifying the city’s role as a national leader in aerospace and defense innovation. The decision follows a thorough evaluation process and underscores Huntsville’s strategic assets, including Redstone Arsenal and a robust ecosystem of federal, academic and industry partners. The move is expected to bring significant economic and workforce development opportunities to the region, further elevating its status as a premier hub for space-related research and operations. Read more.

Universities are increasingly embracing innovation hubs — mixed-use districts that blend academic, commercial, residential, and civic spaces — to expand their influence beyond traditional campus boundaries, according to a new article in Page Insights. According to Page (an AURP Annual CorporateSponsor), these hubs foster interdisciplinary collaboration, workforce development and community engagement while aligning with institutional strengths in fields like life sciences and technology. Successful planning requires market-savvy strategies, phased development, and inclusive programming to ensure long-term vibrancy and equity. Featured examples include Texas A&M’s RELLIS Campus, UNT Dallas’s South Campus Gateway and George Mason University’s Fuse at Mason Square, each illustrating how integrated, mission-driven design can catalyze regional growth and redefine the university’s civic role. Read more.

UC Davis Graduate School of Management has announced the relocation of its nationally ranked Sacramento Part-Time MBA and Master of Management programs to Aggie Square, the university’s new $1.1 billion innovation district on the Sacramento campus. Beginning this fall, students will attend hybrid-format classes in state-of-the-art facilities designed to foster collaboration among university affiliates, industry partners, and the community. The move marks a strategic investment in hands-on learning, entrepreneurship and regional economic development, positioning Aggie Square as a dynamic hub for future business leaders. Read more.

Utah has launched the Nucleus Institute, a bold statewide initiative uniting government, higher education and industry to accelerate innovation, commercialization and workforce development. Announced at Gateway Kiln in Salt Lake City, the institute is built around five pillars — Connections, Commercialization, Funding, Solutions, and Spaces — and aims to transform research into real-world impact. With programs like Market Edge and Catalyst, and a $40 million Nucleus Fund supporting deep tech ventures, Nucleus positions Utah as a national leader in AI, energy and life sciences innovation. Read more.

The University of Kentucky (home of the Coldstream Research Campus) and JMI Sports have announced a landmark $465 million multimedia rights agreement extending their partnership through 2040. The deal introduces a new revenue-sharing model and expanded services including NIL support, facility development advising and enhanced fan engagement. This strategic move aims to bolster UK Athletics’ financial stability and competitiveness, and up to $110 million in facility investments approved to further elevate the university’s athletic infrastructure. A RFI also is being developed for an Entertainment District on the UK campus, which could include concepts such as restaurants, hotels and other entertainment options. Read more.

Michele Farnham is celebrating 30 years of dedicated service at the Iowa State University Research Park, marking a major milestone in her role as Manager of Facility Services. Over the past three decades, she has played a vital role in overseeing building and exterior maintenance, managing tenant leasing, and contributing to the Park’s operational excellence. Her commitment and impact have been deeply valued by colleagues and tenants alike, making this anniversary a moment of well-earned recognition and appreciation. Read more.

The University of Michigan (home of the North Campus Research Complex) innovators shattered commercialization records in FY 2025, reporting 653 new inventions, 293 patent filings, and 16 new startups — marking the highest annual output in the university’s history. With 16 new license and option agreements and 13 new software licenses, U-M continues to lead in translating research into real-world impact. The milestone reflects the strength of its innovation ecosystem and commitment to fostering entrepreneurship across disciplines. Read more.

The National Aerospace Research and Technology Park (NARTP), together with Rowan University and the Atlantic County Economic Alliance, have signed an MOU to launch the framework for the National Consortium for Advanced Aerospace Transportation Technology and Training. The consortium will work to unite universities, government and industry to shape the future of aviation. Applied Research Associates has already stepped up as the first industry partner. The initiative aims to create more research opportunities, more high-value jobs and making New Jersey a national leader in aerospace and advanced air mobility. Read more.

Activation Capital has appointed Michael Steele as its new President and CEO, bringing seasoned leadership to Virginia’s life sciences and innovation ecosystem. Steele, formerly Vice President of Strategy at the Greater Richmond Partnership, will guide Activation Capital’s mission to accelerate entrepreneurship, research commercialization and regional economic growth. His appointment signals a strategic push to expand collaborative opportunities across industry, academia and government within the Bio+Tech Park, a life sciences and advanced technology innovation district adjacent to the Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center. Read more.

The University of New Haven has received a transformative $10 million gift from the Pompea family to establish the Center for Innovation and Applied Technology Development, advancing the university’s commitment to experiential learning and industry collaboration. Located at the Bergami Center for Science, Technology, and Innovation, the new center will support student-led research, entrepreneurship, and workforce development across high-demand fields. This investment strengthens the university’s role as a catalyst for regional innovation and economic growth. Read more.

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Economic Impact Reports

Research parks, innovation districts and tech hubs are strong economic, job-creating engines and contribute to economic development in local communities, regions, states and nations.

Our AURP website features current impact studies that illustrate the dynamic impact of university research parks, innovation districts and tech hubs.

Check out Vanderbilt University's 2025 Economic Impact.

Share your impact report on our website! Learn more.

AURP CAREER CENTER

Check out the AURP Career Center to discover your

next career opportunity, including:



• Associate Provost for Research and Innovation, and Director of Atwood Innovation Plaza – Utah Tech University
• Director of Research Park Operations – University of Tennessee Research Park
• University Director of Technology Ventures – The City University of New York