Biden-Harris Administration Commits Record $16 Billion to HBCUs
WASHINGTON – The Biden-Harris Administration has announced a historic $16 billion investment in historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), significantly increasing federal support for these institutions from fiscal year 2021 through current data available for FY 2024.
This unprecedented financial commitment marks a substantial rise from the previously reported $7 billion. The investment includes over $11.4 billion allocated between FY2021 and FY2023 through federal grants, contracting awards, and debt relief specifically targeted at HBCUs.
“President Biden and I have delivered an unprecedented $16 billion to our nation’s HBCUs. When we invest in their success, we invest in the strength of our nation—today and for generations to come,” Vice President Kamala Harris said. Harris, an alumna of Howard University, underscored the administration’s dedication to HBCUs’ vital role in fostering economic mobility.
President Biden reiterated the administration’s unwavering commitment to maintaining robust investment efforts in HBCUs through FY 2024. Officials emphasized that these investments highlight HBCUs' importance in building economic strength and contributing to America’s leadership.
The $16 billion total includes over $11 billion provided to HBCUs and over $4 billion to support HBCU students. This support includes $2.8 billion in need-based grants and other federal programs like Pell Grants, Federal Work-Study, and Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, aiding students in affording higher education. Additionally, nearly $1.3 billion has been allocated to support veterans attending HBCUs through various Department of Veterans Affairs programs.
Moreover, the Department of Defense has established the first HBCU-led University Affiliated Research Center (UARC), focusing on autonomous technologies for Air Force missions. Howard University leads this initiative, with $90 million in funding over five years, involving Jackson State University, Tuskegee University, Hampton University, Bowie State University, Norfolk State University, Delaware State University, Florida Memorial University, and Tougaloo College.
The Department of Commerce has launched the Connecting-Minority-Communities program, delivering funding to 43 HBCUs to enhance broadband access, purchase equipment, and hire IT personnel, addressing the digital divide. Several HBCUs also launched the HBCU CHIPS Network in collaboration with the Georgia Institute of Technology to support the semiconductor industry’s workforce development.
“HBCUs produce 40% of all Black engineers in America, 50% of all Black lawyers, 70% of all Black doctors and dentists, and 80% of all Black judges,” Biden remarked last fall. “HBCUs are engines of economic mobility, increasing the Black middle class. When the middle class does well, everyone benefits. That’s why it’s critical we invest in these universities.”
