MIT & the Community
Service to the Community
Since its founding, MIT has maintained a commitment to be a good neighbor and serve the local community. The Institute actively supports nonprofit organizations that address local challenges by providing financial resources, the use of its facilities, representation on boards and committees, educational programs, and volunteer engagement. In addition, members of the MIT community support the Institute’s Community Service Fund, which provides assistance for nonprofits where MIT volunteers are at work.
Departments, labs, and centers at MIT often create programming to inspire K-12 student interest in science, technology, engineering, and math. The Institute is working to increase awareness of these offerings to local schools and ensure equitable access to these opportunities.
The Institute’s Priscilla King Gray Public Service Center provides programming, guidance, information, and support to students, faculty, and staff interested in public service, and serves as a resource for both MIT and the community at large.
Economic Impact and Innovation Catalyst
MIT has a far-reaching impact on the economy of the region. The Institute is Cambridge’s second largest employer and largest taxpayer, representing 15.8% of the city’s revenue stream. MIT pays taxes on its commercial property and provides an annual voluntary payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) for property that is used for academic purposes and is legally tax exempt. In fiscal year 2023, the Institute made a PILOT contribution of approximately $2.3 million to the city and paid approximately $84 million in real estate taxes.
The research, startups, and talent pool that MIT generates are a magnet for investment that catalyzes and fuels the local innovation economy. Kendall Square, at the eastern end of MIT’s campus, is the seat of a thriving innovation hub and serves as a gateway to MIT. To provide expanded opportunities in the local innovation economy, the Job Connector serves as a free workforce development hub for Cambridge residents to explore opportunities for job readiness, skill training, internships, and apprenticeships. The Institute’s Kendall Square Initiative and Volpe mixed-use development projects will also enhance the life and character of the area by adding over 2.5 million ft2 (232,000 m2) of retail, office, and residential space and more than four acres (16,000 m2) of open space. MIT’s Open Space Programming office creates diverse and vibrant events and activities in MIT’s Kendall open spaces.