Improving the Funding of HBCUs

Abstract

This chapter discusses the funding challenges faced by HBCUs, starting with a historical overview of underfunding and inequities across major revenue sources. Inequities are examined for tuition revenues, federal and state funding, sponsored research, endowments and alumni giving. The consequences of underfunding are also explored. In addition to existing literature, the chapter summarizes studies by recent Clark Atlanta University graduates on topics such as federal HEERF fund allocation, corporate giving trends during 2020-2022, and alumni giving preferences at a historically black community college. The chapter concludes with a review of emerging research questions to be explored in future studies of HBCU funding.