Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that $49 million in capital grants will be distributed to 35 private, not-for-profit colleges and universities throughout New York State. The funding, provided through the Higher Education Capital Matching Grant Program (HECap), is intended to support facility upgrades, modern laboratory and research spaces, and investments in instructional technology and equipment.
Governor Hochul stated, “New York’s independent colleges and universities are engines of innovation that prepare our students for success and strengthen communities in every region of the state. By investing in modern classrooms, laboratories and facilities, we’re ensuring that students have access to the tools and environments they need to thrive. These projects stand for our ongoing commitment to keeping New York at the forefront of education and economic opportunity.”
The HECap grants require recipient campuses to match every dollar of state funding with at least three dollars of their own funds. With these matching contributions, the total investment for this round will exceed $195 million for higher education institutions across New York.
Some of the awarded projects include $5 million for renovations at Clarkson University’s Engineering and Science Complex, $5 million for new science facilities at Hobart and William Smith Colleges, and $5 million for building renovations at D’Youville to support its College of Osteopathic Medicine. Other recipients include Molloy University, Marist University, Russell Sage College, St. John’s University, Cornell University, and Long Island University.
The grants were approved during the HECap Board’s October 20 meeting after a competitive application process. The HECap Board consists of three members appointed by legislative leaders and the Governor. The Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY) provides administrative support to the board.
The board also approved a new round of funding applications, which will open on December 12, 2025. Since 2005, HECap has awarded nearly $370 million to 318 projects, resulting in more than $1.48 billion invested in higher education capital improvements across the state.
DASNY President and CEO Robert J. Rodriguez said, “DASNY is proud to support the HECap program, which delivers real results for students and communities across New York. These projects not only modernize campus infrastructure, but also create pathways for research, workforce development, and innovation that strengthen our state’s economy for years to come.”
State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky commented, “It is vital for students to learn in spaces that reflect the world they’re preparing to enter. These construction projects will modernize classrooms and labs, expand hands-on learning, and strengthen the pipeline between our colleges and New York’s workforce. Investing in these facilities is about preparing the next generation to lead, innovate, and give back to their communities. I thank Governor Hochul for her continued commitment to higher education and for recognizing that investing in campus infrastructure is an investment in New York’s future.”
Assemblymember Alicia L. Hyndman said, “When we invest in higher education, we invest in New York’s future. The HECap program strengthens our independent colleges and universities, helping make higher education more accessible for working families while expanding opportunities for students to pursue in-demand careers. This investment not only supports our campuses but also drives economic growth and uplifts communities across the state. I applaud Governor Hochul for her leadership and continued commitment to ensuring all New Yorkers have access to quality, affordable education.”
Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities President Lola Brabham added, “The HECap program is a vital partnership that helps New York’s independent colleges and universities remain competitive, innovative, and accessible to students from every background. Governor Hochul’s continued investment through this program strengthens our campuses, creates jobs, and expands opportunities for students statewide. We are grateful to the Governor, the Legislature, and DASNY for their ongoing commitment to advancing higher education and fueling New York’s economic growth.”
Further details about the HECap program and a full list of grant awards can be found on the DASNY website.
