The University of Minnesota relies on state and federal funding to carry out its education, research, and outreach programs across Minnesota. State funding, in particular, helps keep tuition low, renews buildings and infrastructure, advances critical research, and supports outreach to Minnesota communities across the state.
UMN Advocates is an essential component of the University’s legislative effort. Composed of students, faculty, staff, alumni, and other supporters, UMN Advocates help raise awareness and support for the University at the State Capitol through emails to elected officials, events, and other coordinated efforts.
Unsure you can make a difference at the Capitol? We will teach you about the legislative process and how to advocate effectively with your elected officials.
Become a UMN Advocate
As a UMN Advocate, you can help increase funding for University of Minnesota. Whether you join us for U of M Day at the Capitol or prefer to take action from home, you can strengthen the future of the University.
Become a UMN Advocate
Each year, students, faculty, staff, and alumni from across Minnesota travel to the State Capitol to support state funding for the University of Minnesota’s legislative requests. U of M advocates showcase their campuses, research, and outreach work, while sharing personal stories of how the University has improved their own lives and the lives of other Minnesotans. Become a UMN Advocate to receive details on this year's event.
Minnesota Legislature passes budget and bonding bill
On June 9, 2025, the Minnesota Legislature passed a biennial budget and a bonding bill as part of a one-day special session called by the governor. The higher education bill maintains current funding for the University of Minnesota’s core operations in the next biennium. The capital investment (also called bonding) bill provides $60 million in bonding to repair and renew existing University of Minnesota buildings across the state. The transportation bill provides $8 million from the general fund for safety improvement to Washington Avenue Bridge.