Northwestern Secures $75M Deal to Restore Federal Research Funding After Bias Probes

A costly compromise ends federal scrutiny—but at what price? Northwestern’s new rules reshape campus dissent while reviving critical research dollars.

, and Administrator

2025 November 30 . 3:38 AM

1 min read

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Northwestern Secures $75M Deal to Restore Federal Research Funding After Bias Probes

Northwestern University has inked a pact with the federal government to regain access to crucial research funding. The agreement follows probes into alleged civil rights infractions on campus. Under the terms, the institution will fork over $75 million over three years while refraining from admitting any wrongdoing.

The settlement settles claims of bias and harassment at the university. As part of the deal, Northwestern must implement a more stringent student conduct policy. This new policy explicitly prohibits protests inside academic buildings, overnight demonstrations, and the use of tents or masks during rallies.

The university now has up to 30 days to establish a special oversight committee. This group will supervise compliance with the agreement’s stipulations. Leaders at Northwestern have underscored the significance of the restored funding, deeming it vital for ongoing research and operations.

While the institution maintains it did nothing amiss, it anticipates full funding to be reinstated within a month. The $75 million payment will be spread across the next three years, softening the immediate financial impact.

The agreement concludes federal investigations into civil rights concerns at Northwestern. The new conduct rules aim to forestall future incidents of antisemitism, discrimination, and harassment. With funding slated to return, the university can now concentrate on implementing the required changes and resuming its research activities.