The University of Georgia has been reaffirmed as an Innovation and Economic Prosperity University by the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities, according to a May 13 announcement. This marks the institution’s second reaffirmation of this distinction.
The IEP designation is given to universities that show a strong, sustainable commitment to regional economic engagement and growth. The University of Georgia was one of only 16 universities in the country to receive the initial designation in 2013 and has maintained it through five-year review processes.
“The University of Georgia, guided by our vital land-grant and sea-grant mission, is deeply committed to driving progress throughout the state and in communities across the nation,” said UGA President Jere W. Morehead. “This distinction by APLU reinforces UGA’s position as a national leader in economic development and innovation, and I am incredibly grateful to our faculty, staff and students for their exceptional work in support of these efforts.”
APLU President Waded Cruzado said, “Universities are powerful engines for economic growth. From cultivating talent and research breakthroughs to fostering new businesses and enriching communities, public universities play an indispensable role in economic advancement. We are thrilled to recognize the University of Georgia for its dedication to collaborating with its community to propel regional economic development.”
Since earning its initial designation, UGA has expanded its efforts through programs such as Archway Partnership—embedding faculty in communities—and Innovation Gateway—supporting technology transfer and startups—as well as growing an on-campus Innovation District that connects students, faculty, industry partners around entrepreneurship.
In November 2025, UGA received its first IEP Award honoring collaborative programs led by the Carl Vinson Institute of Government and Archway Partnership that have generated more than $500 million in combined public and private investment across Georgia communities.
Looking ahead, UGA’s five-year plan focuses on three main opportunities: advancing a One Health initiative anchored by new schools for medicine and nursing; expanding reach through its Innovation District; deepening visibility for public service programs statewide.
“We have a proven history at UGA of collaborating with our partners in industry, state and local government and other sectors to apply our research and innovation activities for the benefit of citizens in Georgia and beyond,” said Chris King, interim vice president for research. “This renewed designation from APLU shows our work has real impact on the communities we serve.”Â
Stacy Jones, vice president for public service & outreach at UGA said: “As Georgia’s land-grant and sea-grant university, our responsibility is to serve every corner of the state. That means ensuring Georgians not only have access to UGA’s expertise and resources but also see how UGA is working alongside communities by listening, partnering and delivering solutions that improve quality of life.”
