“My decision to attend San Diego State as a freshman in 1978 was a defining event in my life. The education I received became the foundation for my business career, and one of the amazing experiences I had there became the inspiration for Rubio’s Fresh Mexican Grill, which now employs almost 3,000 people. SDSU has influenced my life in a wonderful and dramatic way.” Ralph Rubio Founder/CEO Rubio’s Fresh Mexican Grill

Student at computer

Students in Lab class

Impact of Innovation and Entrepreneurship

The CSU's research capabilities have an immense impact on California’s economy. In the fiscal year 2007-08, CSU research and project sponsored awards from federal, state, local, and private sources amounted to over half a billion dollars employing more than 6,000 students who earned nearly $23 million as a result during the year. Increasingly collaborative efforts with industry in the areas of applied research and technology development have ensured that the CSU is continually able to serve the constituencies of the state.

This section of the website discusses the growing applied research, entrepreneurship, and innovative activities at CSU campuses that continue to positively impact the California economy.