Research + Economic Development
Economic Impact and Government Relations

Economic Impact

Driving Michigan’s Economy Forward

Lawrence Technological University (LTU) delivers far more than world-class education—it fuels regional prosperity.

From Southfield to metro Detroit and across Michigan, LTU’s impact ripples through local businesses, jobs, and innovation.

In FY 2022, LTU generated $410 million in regional economic activity—up from $377 million in FY 2020.

That’s five times LTU’s annual expenditures, far outpacing the two- to three-times ratio typical of most universities.

“This study shows that Lawrence Tech is not just a top-ranked institution producing groundbreaking research and future leaders—LTU is also an economic engine driving Southfield, Oakland County, metro Detroit, and all of Michigan toward a successful future.”

– Tarek M. Sobh, President, Lawrence Technological University

» Key Findings (FY 2021–2022):

» Learn More

Coming soon: LTU’s updated Economic Impact Report showcasing continued growth and new partnerships.

Government Relations

Building Partnerships That Shape the Future

LTU’s government relations strategy focuses on collaboration, funding, and impact—working hand-in-hand with local, state, federal, and international partners to advance research, strengthen communities, and accelerate innovation.

LTU’s collaborations help fuel Michigan’s technology ecosystem, expand educational access, and address critical challenges in energy, defense, transportation, and healthcare.

Examples of government funding and partnerships include:

» Federal Partnerships and Funding

  • National Science Foundation (NSF):
    LTU received a GRANTED program award to expand grant-writing capacity for smaller universities and an EPIIC grant to strengthen national research collaboration networks.
  • Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA):
    Awarded $1.7 million to place physician assistant master’s students in rural clinical settings.
  • Departments of Energy, Defense, and Transportation:
    Ongoing research partnerships driving innovation in sustainable energy, mobility, and defense technologies.
LTU makes history with nation’s first pre-college self-driving car summer program
NSF grant to boost external partnerships for research

» State and Regional Collaborations

  • Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE):
    Funded LTU’s RESTART Program, providing free assistance to businesses improving energy efficiency and sustainability.
    Also awarded $2.28 million through the Critical Minerals Grant Program for recycling initiatives via LTU’s Centrepolis Accelerator.
  • City of Southfield:
    Partnered with LTU on a connected vehicle safety pilot advancing smart-city technology.
  • Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Detroit Regional Chamber, SEMCOG, and U.S. Economic Development Administration:
    Strategic allies in regional growth, manufacturing innovation, and workforce development.
LTU’s Centrepolis Accelerator gets $2.28 million grant for ‘critical minerals’ recycling
LTU hosts connected car demonstration, MDOT transportation career day

» Global and Community Engagement

LTU’s global outlook extends beyond U.S. borders.

In partnership with the U.S. Department of State, LTU’s president collaborated with the Prime Minister of Iraq on plans to develop a new College of Engineering at the American University of Iraq–Baghdad.

Locally, LTU maintains strong ties with the City of Southfield and its leadership—past and present—including alumni now serving in Congress.

LTU and Southfield Mayor Mark Siver co-host Forging the Future Brunch at the Mackinac Policy Conference, 2025
LTU professor makes AI, robotics coding education a ‘MathDance’ for UN program
Indian students joining LTU this fall for MBA program

» Commitment to Service and Civic Leadership

  • Military and Veterans: LTU proudly holds Military Friendly School and Yellow Ribbon School designations.
  • Democratic Engagement: Through the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge, LTU empowers students to participate in civic life and shape the democratic process.

Student Veterans
Group

LTU’s Veterans Group exists to meet the academic, social, and structural needs of Veterans of the United States Military
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Military
Student Aid

Find information on student financial aid resources for students interested in pursuing careers in the military and for veterans and their dependents.
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» Working Together for Michigan’s Future

Through research, innovation, and civic partnership, LTU strengthens the economic and social fabric of Michigan and beyond.

Our collaborations with government and industry partners ensure that technology and talent developed here today drive the industries of tomorrow.