# U.S. Department of Education Invests in HBCUs

The U.S. Department of Education announced a one-time investment exceeding **$174 million** on September 22, 2026, to strengthen Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This funding builds on a prior $438 million investment in fiscal year 2025 and aims to enhance the educational mission and economic impact of HBCUs nationwide. Additionally, the Department allocated more than **$61 million** to Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities, underscoring continued federal support for minority-serving institutions.

- These investments highlight significant federal funding opportunities for educational institutions and contractors supporting HBCUs and tribal colleges.
- Procurement professionals should note the focus on workforce development, STEM, education, and community economic growth as key areas of impact.
- Organizations providing educational services, infrastructure, technology, or program support to these institutions may find expanded contracting opportunities.
- The Department of Education’s commitment signals ongoing prioritization of equity and capacity-building in higher education procurement strategies.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Education
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** September 23, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Department of Education (ED)

### Key Quotes
> For nearly 200 years, HBCUs have been engines of opportunity in communities, advancing critical innovations and uplifting local industries across the nation.
> — Linda McMahon, U.S. Secretary of Education

> These institutions of higher education remain central to our nation’s higher education ecosystem, fueling workforce development, driving economic growth in their communities, and cultivating leaders across sectors including STEM, education, public service, and business.
> — Nicholas Kent, Under Secretary of Education

### Sources
- [U.S. Department of Education Makes Significant Investment in America’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities  | U.S. Department of Education](https://www.ed.gov/about/news/press-release/us-department-of-education-makes-significant-investment-americas-historically-black-colleges-and-universities) - ED