Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)
Quantifying the Expanding Economic Impact of Creative Education
The Challenge
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), a globally recognized private, nonprofit university with campuses in Atlanta, Savannah, and Lacoste, France, sought to measure the scope of its growing economic and community impact across Georgia. With more than 17,500 students and 100 degree programs, SCAD continues to play a critical role in advancing the state’s creative economy through education, innovation, and cultural engagement.
How We Helped
Tripp Umbach conducted a comprehensive economic impact analysis using the IMPLAN input-output model, leveraging both primary data from SCAD and benchmarking databases. The study assessed SCAD’s influence across multiple dimensions, including job creation, student and visitor spending, capital investment, operations, alumni earning power, public events, and philanthropic activity.
In Fiscal Year 2023, SCAD generated $1.3 billion in annual economic impact statewide—a 70% increase since FY2019. The university’s presence contributed $1 billion to the Savannah area and $328.5 million to Metro Atlanta, more than doubling its regional impact over four years. Through its continued investment in talent, creativity, and innovation, SCAD remains a cornerstone of Georgia’s cultural and economic growth.