APLU - IEP

 

APLU Innovation & Economic Prosperity (IEP)

The Innovation & Economic Prosperity (IEP) Program, led by APLU’s Commission on Economic and Community Engagement, recognizes universities sustaining an institution‑wide commitment to economic engagement in areas like workforce development, entrepreneurship, and community service. 

Institutions earn the IEP Designation by conducting an intensive self-study, engaging internal and external stakeholders to assess strengths and identify opportunities for growth in their economic engagement enterprises. Once designated, institutions may compete for prestigious IEP Awards across categories including Talent, Innovation, Place, and the top-tier “Connections Award”

Connecting Innovation to Community Outcomes

OPCA plays a central role in guiding NJIT through the IEP process by coordinating the self-study, fostering inclusive stakeholder participation. The office also helps frame and communicate NJIT’s IEP narrative, enabling the university to clearly “know, measure, and tell” its contributions to economic and community engagement. In addition, OPCA supports institutional visibility,  public recognition efforts, and active participation in APLU’s national community of practice. Through these efforts, OPCA ensures that NJIT’s involvement in the IEP program strengthens its position in regional development, innovation ecosystems, and civic service aligning the university’s strengths with broader public priorities.