Assessing the Financial Risk and Health of UNCF Institutions
The UNCF Financial Benchmarking Report offers an in-depth analysis of the financial landscape of UNCF Member Institutions, highlighting both the progress made and the challenges that remain in ensuring their long-term financial health. This report underscores the resilience of HBCUs, which have consistently overachieved academically despite historic underfunding. The financial landscape improved in 2022, largely due to targeted federal relief funding, which enabled many HBCUs to reduce debt and strengthen cash reserves. However, sustaining this progress remains a challenge as enrollment shifts and financial pressures persist. Operating under a low-price, low-aid model continues to strain institutional budgets, making it essential to explore new strategies for resilience and growth. UNCF remains committed to fostering innovation, strategic alliances, and capacity-building efforts to help HBCUs not just survive but lead in higher education. This report provides a clear assessment of where these institutions stand today, and the bold steps needed to secure their future.