IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act

Improved Campus Safety and Health: Grants can be used to reduce risks to the health, welfare, and safety of students, staff, faculty, and guests by addressing facility conditions (Section 2(b)(3)).

Modernized Learning Environments: Funds can support the construction or renovation of instructional laboratories and research facilities in fields like science, technology, engineering, and the arts (Section 3(a)(1)(A)).

Enhanced Digital Access: The bill allows for the installation or expansion of high-speed broadband and other telecommunications infrastructure to support digital learning (Section 3(a)(6)).

Job Creation and Career Readiness: Grants may fund the development of infrastructure that supports job creation and workforce development hubs aligned with regional labor market needs (Section 3(a)(1)(G)).

Increased Campus Accessibility: Funds can be used to modernize or purchase vehicle fleets used for campus accessibility and academic activities (Section 3(a)(2)).

Support for Small Businesses: The act encourages eligible entities to seek contracts from small business concerns owned by veterans and qualified HUBZone businesses (Section 4).

Restrictions on Fund Usage: Eligible entities are prohibited from using grant funds for routine maintenance, minor repairs, utility bills, or certain athletic facilities (Section 3(b)).

Funding Limitations for Certain Activities: Activities funded under part B of title III of the Higher Education Act of 1965 require specific Secretary approval to use grant funds (Section 3(b)(4)).

Requirement to Supplement Rather Than Supplant: Entities must use grant funds to supplement, not replace, existing Federal, State, and local public funds (Section 3(c)).