The majority of Gateway Institute’s projects derive from needs identified through interface with government agencies, businesses, cultural institutions and other groups in the Gateway region. In undertaking some of these projects, the Institute employs a wide range of research methodologies, including survey design and research, needs assessment, program evaluation, market research and organizational design and analysis. The emphasis on applied research for most projects in no way prevents theoretical or other broader approaches.

To strengthen the connection between the resources of Kean University and local, state, and national initiatives towards socio-economic improvements, the Gateway Institute strives to facilitate and conduct studies to provide empirical information about issues confronting a "global constituency" from community agencies and groups, schools, state and federal agencies and the University.

• Using IMPLAN, a social accounting and impact analysis program, the Gateway Institute analyzed Kean University campus expenditure patterns across five economic indices – goods and services, capital improvements, personnel costs, student and visitor expenditures – and their economic impact on our county, region, and state. The study entitled "Making a Difference: Kean University’s Economic Impact on the Region" estimated that directly and indirectly, Kean generated more than $265 million and produced more than 3,400 jobs statewide.
• In 1999, the Gateway Institute completed an Economic Development Plan for the TOWNSHIP OF HILLSIDE entitled "A Foundation for the 21st Century: An Economic Development Plan for the township of Hillside" that outlined a series of recommendations to maintain and enhance economic viability for Hillside. Secondly, the study provided the Township’s civic and business leaders with significant information that would enhance their capacity to meet the needs of local residents. Finally, the plan was to serve as a framework for assuring coordination between local, regional and state economic planning.

• The Borough of Roselle continues to flourish with Gateway amongst its many partners in community improvement. The Gateway Institute has identified several potential projects that would aid the Borough in its efforts to promote the municipality’s economic development. These projects include the development of a business profile and the development of a civic organization inventory. This continuous partnership seeks to engage the proposed Economic Development Strategies outlined by the Institute.
• In 1998, the Institute developed a variety of specialized training and entrepreneurial programs to assist the HOUSING AUTHORITY of the CITY of ELIZABETH in promoting economic, social, and cultural advancement. Specifically, the HOPE IV GRANT economic feasibility study.
• In 2002, the Gateway Institute completed an extensive County-wide Health Assessment study whose purpose was to identify health services that are available within Union County, and to describe the health and health related behaviors of county residents. The broader goals of the assessment was to provide the data necessary to support rational health service planning, and ultimately, improve the health of county residents.