WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has announced $10 million in funding to support minority-serving institutions (MSIs) in conducting vital research on housing and community development. The initiative, overseen by HUD’s Office of Policy Development & Research (PD&R), aims to advance the field while enhancing the research capacity of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs), and Alaska Native/Native Hawaiian-Serving Institutions (ANNHIs).
“These research opportunities will ensure that we are supporting inclusive communities for all,” stated HUD Agency Head Adrianne Todman. “HUD must work to uplift and support those people who have been historically disadvantaged and left behind. By empowering MSIs, we are strengthening the communities they anchor and expanding critical housing knowledge.”
Research Topics Address Critical Issues
The funding will focus on seven priority areas aligned with HUD’s Learning Agenda, a policy-driven framework designed to address housing and urban development challenges at federal, state, and local levels. These areas include:
- Community Development and Place-Based Initiatives
- Disaster Recovery
- Fair Housing
- Homelessness
- Homeownership, Asset Building, and Economic Opportunity
- Housing and Health
- Housing Needs of American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian Populations
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy Development and Research Solomon Greene highlighted the capacity-building aspect of the initiative. “Investing in building the research and development capacity of our academic partners, and particularly minority-serving institutions, remains a top priority for HUD. These institutions bring unique strengths and methodologies to addressing critical housing and community development challenges.”
Expanding Knowledge While Supporting Communities
Through this initiative, HUD seeks to support research that not only addresses urgent housing issues but also has a lasting impact on underserved communities. By equipping MSIs to undertake advanced research, the program strengthens the connection between academic institutions and the communities they represent, reflecting HUD’s commitment to inclusive and impactful policymaking.
Eligible institutions are encouraged to explore HUD’s array of resources and foundational studies, outlining the current state of research across the selected topics. Applications are due by April 9, 2025, marking an important step for MSIs to influence housing policies and create thriving, equitable neighborhoods for generations to come.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.