UC nationally recognized for innovation in economic engagement
APLU chooses UC for second consecutive year
For the second consecutive year, the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU) has recognized the University of Cincinnati with an Innovation & Economic Prosperity (IEP) Award for exemplary initiatives in education and workforce development.
For 2022, UC received the IEP Economic Engageent Connections award, the top prize in the awards competition, recognizing excellence across three award categories.
UC’s innovation ecosystem
Recognized as the birthplace of cooperative education more than 116 years ago, UC offers a multidisciplinary approach with hands-on experiences for students, faculty, staff and corporate partners. In recent years, UC has ramped up its commitment to commercialization by opening the UC 1819 Innovation Hub, launching the Venture Lab to aid startups and simplifying the path to the marketplace for researchers and inventors.
As a result, UC has experienced a 51% increase in faculty disclosures and a 94% increase in patents issued, and the Venture Lab has launched six times as many startups, for a total of 94.
APLU’s IEP designation program helps higher education institutions codify, elevate and advance their enterprise supporting economic and community development while providing national recognition to institutions committed to university economic development. In order to earn the designation, institutions complete a rigorous self-study and stakeholder engagement process. They also identify their economic development strengths and areas of growth and improvement.
Featured image at top: Ryan Hays, UC executive vice president and chief innovation and strategy officer, accepts the Innovation & Economic Prosperity Award from the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities. Photo by Josh Gold Photography
Next Lives Here
The University of Cincinnati is classified as a Research 1 institution by the Carnegie Commission and is ranked in the National Science Foundation's Top-35 public research universities. UC's medical, graduate and undergraduate students and faculty investigate problems and innovate solutions with real-world impact. Next Lives Here.
Related Stories
Gregory Hartmann elected chair of UC’s Board of Trustees
January 13, 2026
The University of Cincinnati Board of Trustees elected officers during its Dec. 16, 2025, meeting, and Greg Hartmann was unanimously elected chair for 2026. Jill McGruder will serve as vice-chair, and Shelly Gillis will serve as secretary.
Microsoft expands its presence at UC
January 12, 2026
Microsoft is doubling down on its commitment to the University of Cincinnati, significantly expanding its workspace and AI skilling center at the school’s 1819 Innovation Hub.
Small business predictions for 2026
January 8, 2026
In 2026, small business leaders will likely adapt to AI and cybersecurity threats as they consider new funding sources, training strategies and realities in today’s business environment.