Two Minds Are Better Than One. And Hundreds Are Better Than Two.

As an institution anchored and deeply engaged in the city of Dayton, partnering with other organizations to spur innovation, drive economic growth and enhance life in our community.

There's power in bringing organizations together to dream big, take bold steps and build a thriving community. That's why the University has partnered with hundreds of organizations since our founding in 1850.

UD students, faculty and staff learn extraordinary lessons by collaborating with community partners in a shared quest for equitable, meaningful solutions. Together, we're working to create a brighter tomorrow — for everyone.


A Brighter Future for All

We support innovation, entrepreneurship and economic growth in the community. See how we're fostering imagination and innovation through our partnerships.

Our Partnerships

Research and Development

On land owned by the University, two global companies — GE Aviation and Copeland — established major research and development centers. Here, UD researchers and students work side-by-side with industry scientists and engineers, developing new ideas, new patents and even new jobs.

IBM and UD will conduct joint research and development of next-generation semiconductor technologies and materials. The collaboration aims to advance critical technologies for the age of AI including AI hardware, advanced packaging, and photonics.

Community Building

Another building on campus brings together The Dayton Foundation, the Dayton Development Coalition and UD's Fitz Center for Leadership in Community to work on issues such as workforce development, pre K-16 educational access and success, socioeconomic determinants of health and reducing structural inequity. Our Center for Social Concern works to unite faith and action for justice through opportunities for reflective volunteerism, community engagement, cross-cultural immersion, and education and advocacy.

Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Collaborations extend off-campus, as well. With Premier Health, we're developing onMain: 38-acres of mixed-use development that aims to foster imagination and innovation.

The Hub Powered by PNC Bank, a joint venture with The Entrepreneurs Center, enables students, faculty and staff from all disciplines to work alongside local entrepreneurs in the downtown Arcade.

The Greater West Dayton Incubator — developed in partnership with community leaders and with support from The Entrepreneurs Center — will offer microlending, training and education, networking opportunities and consulting services to startups and underrepresented firms.

Education

We're also working with partners to increase access to higher education. The UD Sinclair Academy, a partnership with Sinclair Community College, helps reduce financial barriers to earning a bachelor's degree.

UD's collaboration with Sinclair also generates new academic opportunities. For instance, our joint Bachelor of Science in Nursing program builds on Sinclair's top-rated associate degree in nursing and UD's growing capacity in the health sciences.