Indiana University exceeded $1 billion in research and development expenditures in fiscal year 2026, marking the second consecutive year the university has passed the threshold.
"Surpassing $1 billion in research expenditures for a second year reflects the talent and ambition of our faculty, researchers and students," IU President Pamela Whitten said. "This sustained investment demonstrates the confidence that federal agencies, philanthropic organizations, industry partners and foundations have in Indiana University's ability to improve health outcomes, strengthen national security, accelerate technological innovation and create economic opportunity."
IU became the first public university in Indiana to surpass $1 billion in annual research expenditures in 2025.
During fiscal year 2026, IU received $869.6 million in sponsored awards, representing one of the strongest years in the institution's history. The university received $526 million in federally funded sponsored awards during fiscal year 2026, an increase of $33 million compared to the previous year. These investments bring outside funding into Indiana to support scientific discovery, train the next generation of researchers and professionals, create jobs, and help tackle challenges including cancer, Alzheimer's disease, cybersecurity and advanced manufacturing.
Funding from the National Institutes of Health reached a record $389.7 million, including direct and pass-through awards, representing an increase of more than $54 million over fiscal year 2025. These awards support research that can lead to new treatments, improved patient outcomes, expanded clinical trials, and breakthroughs that improve lives both in Indiana and around the world.
The university also experienced significant growth in support from nonprofit organizations. Research expenditures funded by nonprofit organizations increased nearly 32% to almost $110 million, another record for IU and a reflection of the growing interest among philanthropic and mission-driven organizations in partnering with university researchers.
"Achieving more than $1 billion in research expenditures for a second consecutive year is a powerful affirmation of the strength and momentum of Indiana University's research enterprise," said Russell J. Mumper, IU vice president for research. "Our faculty continue to compete successfully for funding from federal agencies, nonprofit organizations and industry partners because they are conducting research that addresses some of society's most pressing challenges."
Major research investments and initiatives in fiscal year 2026 included:
- An IU-led coalition being selected as an NSF Regional Innovation Engine, securing up to $160 million over 10 years to advance musculoskeletal health innovation and commercialization.
- Collaborative research agreements with Cook Medical, Eli Lilly and Company and Zimmer Biomet to accelerate translational research and help bring new discoveries to market more quickly.
- The launch of the nonprofit IU Inc. to expand and enhance partnerships with industry, startups and government agencies, and more rapidly transform discovery into real-world impact.
Research and development expenditures as reported to the National Science Foundation are subject to NSF review before publishing as part of the Higher Education Research and Development Survey.
