Aims Community College generated $395 million in economic impact across Weld and Larimer counties during the 2023–24 academic year, supporting 5,645 jobs and accounting for approximately 1% of the region’s gross regional product, according to a recent study.
Aims Community College Generates $395 Million in Regional Economic Impact
March 03, 2026
Conducted by Lightcast, a leading provider of labor market data, the study explores Aims’ role as an economic engine for Northern Colorado.
“As a board, we take our responsibility seriously to ensure public investment in Aims delivers real value,” said Marilyn Schock, Chair of the Aims Board of Trustees. “This data confirms that Aims continues to be one of the strongest returns on investment our region can make.”
The college’s greatest economic contribution comes from its alumni. Former Aims students working in the region added $312 million in income to the local economy last year, supporting 4,203 jobs through increased productivity and spending. The industry sectors that benefit most from Aims’ presence in the community include government, education, construction, healthcare, manufacturing and others.
“Our community invests in Aims and we give that investment back many times over through stronger careers, thriving families and a more resilient regional economy,” said Dr. Leah L. Bornstein, Aims Community College CEO and President.
Capital construction projects contributed an additional economic boost. Aims invested $30.9 million in construction across its campuses. Each Aims construction project functions like a local stimulus, employing contractors and supporting small businesses. The major project conducted during the study period is the Gateway Building and Sim City on the Windsor Campus, as well as upgrades and modernizations across all facilities. These projects generated $14.1 million in added income, supporting 167 construction-related jobs.
Looking forward, there are two large capital projects on the Greeley Campus: the Student Health and Wellness Center and the Aims Workforce Innovation Center, both of which are contributing to economic growth in this sector.
In addition to driving economic growth, Aims partners with local employers to build a stronger workforce.
- The Corporate Solutions team develops and delivers customized training solutions for business and industry.
- Aims Continuing Education provides a variety of non-credit programming for business partners for professional development.
- Aims career and technical education programs partner with industry-specific advisory committees to keep degrees and certificates aligned with evolving workforce needs.
Through its educational programs, partnerships and ongoing campus investments, Aims continues to strengthen Weld and Larimer counties. “As we grow alongside Northern Colorado, Aims remains steadfast in its mission to create opportunity,” Bornstein said. “Our students are the heart of this impact. When they succeed, our entire region thrives.”
Learn more at aims.edu.
