Fresno State is a key contributor to California’s economic activity and tax revenue, according to the latest Economic Impact Report released by the 22-campus California State University (CSU) system on November 18. The report details how CSU campuses, including Fresno State, play an important role in supporting regional economies, strengthening major industries, and preparing skilled workers for the state.
Fresno State President Saul Jimenez-Sandoval said, “The CSU and Fresno State continue to be one of the state’s most powerful engines of economic mobility, opportunity and innovation as its influence extends across industries, communities and generations, especially here in the Central Valley. This report shines a light on our collective impact and the powerful role the CSU system plays to keep California’s economy strong and thriving in every corner of the state.”
The report titled “Moving California Forward: The Economic Power of the CSU” found that for every dollar invested by the state in CSU, $7.69 was generated in statewide industry activity. When alumni earnings are included, this figure rises to $35.53 per dollar invested.
Within the Central Valley region, Fresno State supported about 14,000 jobs and contributed $1.5 billion in industry activity. This represents nearly five percent of CSU’s total statewide economic impact.
Across all campuses, CSU supported approximately 210,800 jobs throughout California with a total statewide impact of $31.6 billion.
Nearly half of all bachelor’s degrees awarded in California come from CSU institutions. Many are granted in fields such as engineering, nursing, agriculture, teaching and law enforcement—areas that match workforce needs within regions like the Central Valley.
The report also highlights research efforts at CSU campuses addressing challenges relevant to California—from virus detection in grapevines to studies on prenatal care—while producing research cited internationally.
Consulting firm ICF worked with the Chancellor’s Office and university colleagues across CSU to conduct this analysis. Last year’s regional research indicated that Fresno State alone contributed almost $1 billion to the local economy.
More information about these findings can be found at calstate.edu/impact.
