A new study says small, private colleges might not be well known but they are having a big impact on the state’s economy.

The study, commissioned by the Kansas Independent College Association, says the 18 colleges contribute more than $980 million a year to Kansas’ economy.

Matt Lindsey, president of the association, says the study was commissioned in part to raise the profile of the colleges, which generally aren’t well known except by their graduates.

Colleges included in the study are Baker University, Friends University, Benedictine College, Bethel College, Central Christian College, Donnelly College, Hesston College, Kansas Wesleyan, Manhattan Christian College, McPherson College, MidAmerica Nazarene University, Newman University, Ottawa University, Southwestern College, Sterling College, Tabor College and University of St. Mary.

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Associated Press information from: The Topeka Capital-Journal