DeKALB – Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced in the annual State of the State Address that there will be an increase in higher education funding and the Monetary Award Program (MAP) in his proposed fiscal year 2024 budget.

During a live broadcast of the Illinois State of the State address, Pritzker proposed a $118.9 billion operating budget for all funds for the fiscal year 2024. This is an approximate 2.3% decrease from fiscal year 2023.

NIU is expected to receive $98,670 if Pritzker’s budget is approved by the Illinois Congress.

Pritzker suggested a $100 million increase to MAP grants that would result in a total of $701 million in funding. He explains that by raising the amount given to MAP, Illinois will see an increase in freshman enrollment at state universities.

“This year, every single student who is eligible for a MAP grant now gets one, and we are providing larger scholarships than ever before,” Pritzker said. “Together with Pell grants, virtually everyone at or below median income in Illinois can go to community college tuition-free.”

Pritzker also proposed a 7% increase in higher education funding, with $80.5 million going to public universities and $19.4 million to community colleges. He stated that this was an effort to make college more accessible for Illinois students.

“For decades we neglected direct investments in our state universities and community colleges. I propose we raise our direct investment in them by $100 million – the largest increase in more than two decades,” Pritzker said. “After years of decline, we’re seeing growth across higher education in Illinois that’s well above the national average. This is our moment to take it all to the next level.”

Additionally, Pritzker proposed a $2.8 million raise in the Minority Teacher Scholarship program, bringing the total amount of funding to $7 million. The 60% increase would allow for more people of color to enter the field of education according to Pritzker’s budget.

Pritzker’s proposed budget will be decided upon in May.