These 10 Tennessee industries benefit most from Vols’ $1.15B impact | Exclusive

In the 2025 fiscal year, the University of Tennessee's athletics program generated an economic impact of $1.15 billion throughout the state, according to a detailed study conducted by Tripp Umbach, a leading expert in economic impact research. The study, commissioned by UT athletics, breaks down the impact into three main categories: direct, indirect and induced economic activity, and state taxes.

Direct impact includes $410.2 million in employee payroll, operating expenses, and capital expenditures. Indirect and induced impact totals $739.8 million, resulting from the circulation of athletics-related spending throughout the state economy. State taxes generated from this impact amount to $53.9 million.

The top 10 industries that benefited most from UT athletics in Tennessee accounted for almost three-quarters of the $1.15 billion impact. Universities, colleges, and professional schools led with $262.7 million, followed by construction of educational and vocational structures at $148.1 million. Full-service restaurants contributed $120 million, while other real estate generated $58.3 million in impact.

Hotels and motels benefited the most with $37.9 million, owned dwellings contributed $36.8 million, clothing retail received $33.3 million, gas stations brought in $30.1 million, financial sectors earned $19.5 million, and hospitals generated $17.9 million in economic impact.

Athletics director Danny White expressed surprise at the magnitude of the economic impact, stating that he did not anticipate it to exceed a billion dollars. He emphasized the positive effect on the Knoxville economy, particularly due to stadium and center attendance, which also led to the filling of hotel rooms and restaurants.

White highlighted the importance of the study for discussions with business owners and government officials, noting that Knoxville benefits greatly when the Neyland Stadium and the Food City Center are filled with fans.

The economic impact on the local economy was concentrated in Knoxville County, where UT athletics supported 6,576 jobs and generated $931.5 million in the 2025 fiscal year. Direct impact contributed $332.2 million, indirect and induced economic activity accounted for $599.2 million, and local taxes generated $43.7 million. Visitors to UT sports events contributed $316.5 million in spending and supported 2,325 jobs, generating $23.3 million in taxes.

Additionally, UT student-athletes spent $14.5 million statewide on personal expenses, contributing $761,000 in tax revenue.