ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´

Students standing in front of a mural

Economic Partnerships

Lehigh is deeply invested in the economic vitality and cultural vibrancy of South Bethlehem. Through strategic partnerships, entrepreneurial support and engagement initiatives, Lehigh fosters a thriving local economy that benefits both the university and the community. By connecting students, faculty and local businesses, we create opportunities for innovation, economic growth and lasting community impact.

Economic Impact

Don
Cunningham

A powerful driver of talent, innovation and entrepreneurship, ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ is an asset that creates economic advantages setting the Lehigh Valley apart.

Income generated for the region by Lehigh students and employees

$1.6M

Added regional income from Lehigh

In FY 2023–24, Lehigh volunteers contributed service valued at $1.6 million—equivalent to supporting 26 local jobs in the regional economy.

Businesses connect with the Small Business Development Center

500+

businesses connect with SBDC

The PA (SBDC) helps entrepreneurs and small business owners gain knowledge to grow and succeed.

Impact: Market Matters

$28.3M

Impact: Market Matters

With 88% from outside the area, Lehigh students add nearly $30M to the local economy—seen in spots like the Farmers’ Market.

Lehigh alumni impact to the regional economy

$120M+

Lehigh alumni’s impact on regional economy

Alum Stephen Tang is one of many Lehigh grads whose careers added $122.5M to the region’s economy—fueling 1,218 jobs.

 

Fostering Local Business Growth

Lehigh nurtures entrepreneurship through campus programs and deep community ties. By aligning with local priorities, we support economic growth, elevate partners and co-create a stronger, more vibrant Lehigh Valley.

Bridging Campus & Community

Lehigh fosters partnerships that connect campus and community through service, education, and outreach. Students, faculty, and staff work alongside South Bethlehem and Lehigh Valley neighbors to drive positive change.

Two men talking

Fueling Area Tech

, a wholly-owned subsidiary of ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ and funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Community Economic Development, drives job creation and economic growth. They achieve this by investing in and supporting tech startups and manufacturers. Its physical incubator, Ben Franklin Tech Ventures, is located on ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´'s Mountaintop Campus.

 
Four people posing for a photo in front of a backdrop

Empowering Local Manufacturers

, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lehigh and not-for-profit public/private partnership, is dedicated to creating manufacturing jobs and economic opportunity in the region. The team at MRC help small and mid-sized manufacturers become more competitive, adopt lean and agile processes, invest more effectively in their human capital and strategically grow their companies.

 
Bethlehem at sunset

Supporting Growth in the Valley

ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ partners with Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation () to help strengthen the Lehigh Valley’s economy. Through collaboration, they support job creation, business growth, and a vibrant, inclusive future for the region and its residents.

 
Two people in front of a mural

Strengthening Main Streets Together

Lehigh partners with the to foster economic growth and vibrant communities. Together, they empower local businesses, strengthen and enhance the quality of life across the region’s Main Streets.

 
Four volunteers at a soup kitchen

Creating Community

From historic towns and scenic trails to festivals, food and arts, offers an unmatched quality of life. ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ proudly calls this dynamic, welcoming region home—where learning meets living.

 
Exterior photo of SteelStacks

Partnering for Bethlehem’s Growth

Lehigh partners with Bethlehem Economic Development Corporation () to advance innovation, economic opportunity and neighborhood revitalization in South Bethlehem. Together, they support initiatives like the KIZ, SouthSide Arts District, and SouthSide Ambassadors.