Mission landing page
Support the University of Minnesota’s mission in a critical time

Today the University of Minnesota stands at a crossroads. Because of recent federal funding cuts, critical work in the sciences, arts, and humanities is at risk of being halted. The need for support from our community has never been greater.

That’s why we’ve launched the University Mission Support Fund—a vital new initiative designed to safeguard and sustain the core values, programs, and services that define our university’s mission of research, education, and outreach.

Since the 1950s, federal funding has been a critical driver of innovation at institutions like the University of Minnesota. Cuts will reduce opportunities for students and faculty alike, impacting our state and nation’s ability to lead, now and well into the future.

Mission Support Fund

The University of Minnesota alone stands to lose tens of millions in annual federal support. Without immediate philanthropic investment, we risk shuttering labs, laying off scientists, and abandoning promising work that will move our society forward.

Gifts of all sizes will make a meaningful difference. Please join us and show your support for the University of Minnesota’s mission-critical work.

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A wide range of priorities are in danger, including these:

Teen mental health Teen mental health

Federal funds were supporting a vital study aimed at understanding why some teens face more challenges with mental health, bullying, and risky behaviors like substance use. The goal was to use this insight to create better support systems for the teens who need it most. Without continued funding, this research stops—and vulnerable teens lose the chance for a better future.

Healthy forests Healthy forests

The U of M has been working on a critical effort to bring back a million acres of healthy forests in Minnesota by planting trees that are better suited to handle increasing atmospheric heat. Losing federal funding paralyzes the ability to build a strong network of local communities, organizations, farmers, and researchers who can continue this work to secure the future of Minnesota’s forests—and the planet.

Teacher training Teacher training

Minnesota schools are facing a serious teacher shortage—especially in special education. A U of M program was helping fix that by giving paraprofessionals a chance to become licensed special education teachers by earning their bachelor’s degree and teaching license, learning on the job with experienced teachers, and taking online classes through the U. Without this project, Minnesota students with the greatest needs will be at risk.

American iron American iron

The University of Minnesota is leading a bold domestic effort to strengthen the U.S. iron and steel industries. In partnership with national labs, we are planning a next-generation hydrogen-powered plant to produce advanced, American-sourced iron products for future manufacturing. This first-of-its-kind project positions the U.S. to lead in industrial innovation, reduce reliance on foreign materials, and support stable mining and manufacturing jobs. Without continued federal support, we risk losing a key opportunity to produce globally competitive American iron and steel.