The 2025-2026 Economic and Social Impact of Indiana Wesleyan University
Introduction
Indiana Wesleyan University generates more than $649 million in total annual economic impact across the State of Indiana, supporting 3,510 full-time equivalent jobs and almost $215 million in employee compensation. This substantial economic contribution positions IWU as a major economic catalyst for Indiana's economy.
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Job supported, creating opportunity and strengthing the workforce
In economic impact is generated for the State of Indiana by IWU's operations
Students through Marion, National & Global, and at Wesley Seminary
Impact from Annual Operations
The university employs just under 1,000 faculty and staff members, and approximately 52% of the university's operational budget is spent on employee compensation. The remaining spending spans categories such as utilities and maintenance within the regions where IWU's campuses are located.
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"We are thrilled to announce the construction of our new I AM THIRD basketball arena, a facility that will not only enhance our athletic programs but also serve as a vibrant gathering place for our campus and our community. This arena represents our commitment to excellence in both academics and athletics, and I'm excited to see how it will inspire school spirit, unite our students, and become a central hub for events and engagement. We can't wait to welcome everyone into this incredible new space."
- John Kulaga,
PhD, University President
Impact from Ancillary Spending
Beyond these direct contributions, IWU generates additional economic activity across Grant County, Marion County, and the broader State of Indiana by attracting visitors from outside these areas. Students, their families, event attendees, athletic game attendees, and other visitors substantially impact local businesses in sectors such as food service, lodging, transportation, and retail.
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IWU educates, credentials, and retains students within the regional and state economies, which translates to enhanced earning potential, and therefore higher household income within those repsective economies. Much of that income is spent locally, generating economic activity and supporting jobs and tax revenue.
The university has more than 56,000 alumni with undergraduate and advanced degrees who now live within the State of Indiana. Advanced degrees are defined as master's, PhD, and other terminal degrees.
Download Full 2025 Report$35 Million in Aid
Indiana Wesleyan University awarded more than $35 million in scholarships in fiscal year 2024, demonstrating its strong commitment to student success. This unfunded institutional aid directly reduces the cost of higher education for students and families while helping retain talent in the region.
Download Full 2025 ReportIWU serves as a beacon of intellectual excellence and thought leadership, contributing significantly to scholarly discourse while maintaining its commitment to academic innovation, workforce development, and Christ-centered education. Through comprehensive research initiatives, faculty scholarship, and transformative education programs, IWU demonstrates its role as both an academic institution and a driver of societal advancement.
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