Our Mission
A Living Legacy of Impact
In 1890, Congress passed the Second Morrill Act, the law that created the 1890 Land-grant system. Today, 19 universities across 18 states carry its mandate: train an agricultural workforce, run applied research, and serve rural communities.
The 1890 Universities Foundation was founded in 2016 to strengthen that network. Since then, the Foundation has secured grants and built partnerships with the USDA, including the USDA Forest Service, and the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities.
The Foundation is the only organization in the country dedicated exclusively to the 1890 land grant network.
19 Universities. One Shared Mission.
Spotlighting Success and Innovation
Celebrating Achievements at Our 19 Land-Grant Historically Black Colleges and Universities
Celebrate the students and faculty of the 19 1890 land-grant universities.
Stories From the 19 Universities
1890 Universities Foundation Supports Introduction of the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act
Bipartisan legislation would provide historic federal investment in HBCU infrastructure, technology, and research capacity. WASHINGTON, D.C., May 14, 2026 — The
Research Breakthroughs
Researchers at the 1890 universities study crop production, food safety, soil science, and rural health. Their work protects the food supply every American depends on.
Academic
Brilliance
The 1890 universities train scientists, farmers, veterinarians, food scientists, and extension professionals. Their graduates go to work for this country.
Community Empowerment
For 136 years, the 1890 universities have anchored rural America. Projects led by the 1890 universities bring training, technical assistance, and financial guidance to farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners across 18 states.
Today, the 19 universities generate more than $5.1 billion in economic activity each year and support more than 43,000 jobs.
Featured News
Foundation Receives An Unprecedented $35 Million Award from USDA: Elevating Urban Forestry And Reinforcing Unity Among Black Colleges and Universities
Monthly Insights Delivered to Your Inbox
Subscribe to The Eighteen90, the Foundation’s monthly newsletter, for news from the 19 universities, program updates, and upcoming events.