U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.), co-chairs of the HBCU Caucus, have introduced the Institutional Grants for New Infrastructure, Technology, and Education (IGNITE) for HBCU Excellence Act.
The proposed legislation would establish a competitive federal grant program within the Department of Education to support modernization efforts and long-term infrastructure improvements at HBCUs throughout the country. The program would prioritize funding for institutions with the greatest financial need, aging or unsafe facilities, limited fundraising capacity, and high-enrollment of low-income students.
Colleges and universities that receive funding through the federal initiative could use their grants for the construction, modernization, repair, and deferred maintenance of campus facilities; campus safety improvements; and/or the creation of AI Workforce Development Hubs. Additionally, the legislation would provide HBCUs with technical assistance to apply for and manage federal grants, require federal reporting and oversight of the program, and provide capital financing relief to institutions left out of prior federal assistance programs.
“HBCUs have long been engines of opportunity, but for far too long, too many have been asked to do more with less. The IGNITE for HBCU Excellence Act will help modernize campuses, expand research and workforce training opportunities, and ensure students are prepared to succeed in a 21st-century economy,” said Senator Scott. “I’m proud to partner with Senator Coons on this legislation to strengthen HBCUs in South Carolina and across the country for generations to come.”
“Historically Black colleges and universities like Delaware State University have long been institutions that create opportunity and academic excellence for future generations of community leaders, innovators, educators, and freedom fighters,” said Senator Coons. “Funding for HBCUs is critical to providing educational resources for low-income students, first generation college students, and those most at risk of not entering college. Congress needs to take up and pass the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act to modernize campuses across the country so that HBCUs have the technology, facilities, and resources they need to educate the next generation.”
