IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act

Sponsor: J. French Hill (Republican-AR)May 13, 2026

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Introduced

In Committee

Passed One Chamber

Passed Both Chambers

Signed into Law

Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.

Historically Black Colleges and Universities would get grants to improve campuses and technology.

This bill would create a new grant program to help Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) upgrade their facilities, improve technology, and boost campus safety. It would also repay outstanding balances on certain existing loans for these institutions. This aims to provide better learning environments for students and support the long-term health of HBCUs.

What Would Change

Today, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) often rely on their own fundraising, state support, or existing loan programs to fund campus infrastructure projects. After this bill, a new federal grant program would provide dedicated funds for long-term improvements, and certain past loans would be repaid, offering more direct financial support for these institutions.

Key Provisions

Creates a new grant program for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to make long-term campus improvements.
Lets HBCUs use grant money to construct, modernize, or repair campus facilities, including labs, dorms, and transportation infrastructure.
Allows grants to pay for installing high-speed broadband internet and other technology to support digital learning.
Permits grants to be used for acquiring and installing research equipment in fields like artificial intelligence and biotechnology.
Repays the outstanding principal, interest, fees, and costs on certain existing capital financing loans for HBCUs that were executed before the end of 2020.

View on Congress.gov

HR 8791 · 119th Congress · May 13, 2026 · AI Summary by gemini-2.5-flash · 10/10

IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act

What Would Change

Key Provisions

Lobbying Activity