The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently launched new initiatives to build partnerships with historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) that expand workforce development, funding, and educational opportunities. Announced Wednesday at the UNCF’s (United Negro College Fund) UNITE 2024 Summit, the efforts include the creation of $2.5 million grant that promotes HBCU faculty and student collaboration with the agency.

“HBCUs produce some of the best and brightest minds our country has to offer,” EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan said in a press release. “At every level of this administration, including Vice President Kamala Harris, HBCU graduates are delivering real results, and we’re more committed than ever to partnering and empowering HBCU students and leaders across the country. At EPA, HBCUs have a permanent seat at our table, so that these institutions remain at the forefront of the environmental movement.”

The grant funds will be used to develop curricula on climate change and environmental justice and invest in community-driven projects designed to address persistent environmental issues, such as creating green spaces, implementing car-sharing programs with low-emission vehicles, upgrading HVAC systems, and installing water efficiency systems to reduce pollution.

EPA’s initiatives will support HBCUs and their community partners in addressing their unique needs and will focus on advancing workforce development, environmental education, and capacity building, as well as funding projects related to climate change, water quality, and land health. Development opportunities will include training, internships, and fellowships to prepare diverse young professionals for careers in reducing greenhouse gasses and air pollutants. 

Additionally, the EPA will establish a new position, the HBCU Outreach and Engagement Liaison, to connect these institutions with agency resources, including grant funding opportunities, and ensure effective coordination. 

The EPA will also create its first HBCU-MSI (Minority-Serving Institution) Federal Advisory Council, which will include experts from academia, industry, community organizations, and local governments. This council will provide advice on improving HBCU participation in federal programs and diversifying the EPA workforce.