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Jimmy Williams
The Biden-Harris administration announced an additional $1.3 billion in federal investments for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) on Monday.
This new funding brings the total federal support for HBCUs to more than $17 billion from 2021 through available data for 2024, setting a new record for federal investments in these institutions.
HBCUs play a crucial role in U.S. education and economic mobility, providing opportunities for low- and middle-income students, especially those eligible for Pell Grants. Despite representing just 3% of U.S. colleges and universities, HBCUs account for a significant share of Black professionals in various fields. These institutions have produced 40% of Black engineers, 50% of Black teachers, and 70% of Black doctors and dentists.
A report from the Council of Economic Advisors (CEA) highlights that HBCU graduates see higher household incomes and are more likely to complete their degrees than students from non-HBCU institutions. Additionally, HBCUs contribute $16.5 billion annually to the national economy and create over 136,000 jobs, according to new research by the United Negro College Fund (UNCF).
“The Biden-Harris administration is committed to ensuring that HBCUs continue to thrive,” said the White House in a statement. “This funding will help build on their proven track record of success.”
The $1.3 billion announced includes $188 million in competitive grants through the Department of Education, aimed at building HBCU research and development (R&D) capacity. Additionally, $1.1 billion will go directly to support students through need-based grants and other federal programs, including Pell Grants.
Several new initiatives reflect the administration’s focus on boosting HBCU capacity in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). One key program is the CHIPS and Science Act, which supports HBCUs’ R&D in semiconductor technologies, a sector vital to national security and economic growth. Howard University now leads a University Affiliated Research Center, funded by $90 million over five years, in collaboration with other HBCUs.
Other federal agencies have also stepped up. The Department of Commerce launched the Connecting Minority Communities program to provide 43 HBCUs with high-speed internet access, while the Department of Energy awarded $7.75 million in grants to promote clean energy education at HBCUs.
“HBCUs not only empower their students but serve as engines for economic growth and research innovation,” said the White House, underscoring their role in workforce development across multiple sectors.
The administration’s efforts have been welcomed by HBCU leaders, who see the investment as critical to addressing historical underfunding. “With the support of the Biden-Harris administration, HBCUs can continue to create pathways of success for generations of students,” said Dr. Michael Lomax, President of UNCF.
This new funding cements the administration’s commitment to advancing racial equity and economic opportunity, with more investments expected in the years to come.
