Drury, MSU receive millions in state funding

The Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development awarded millions of dollars in funding to Drury and Missouri State universities.

Drury is set to receive $1 million through the Private MoExcels grant program, while MSU was picked for $2 million from the Agriculture Innovation & Workforce initiative, according to a news release.

"These grants will allow Missouri colleges and universities to expand our workforce, particularly in entrepreneurship and other careers where we are seeing growth," Gov. Mike Parson said in the release.

Private MoExcels grants, which may be used for outreach and recruitment efforts, student support services, professional and curriculum development, construction and renovation, and equipment purchases, must be matched on a dollar-for-dollar basis. Funds also must be matched for Agriculture Innovation & Workforce Development awards, which can be used for outreach and recruitment efforts, professional and curriculum development, construction and renovation, and equipment purchases.

Drury's funding is earmarked for shoring up the health care workforce amid a shortage, while MSU is receiving funds for an agricultural innovation hub, according to the release.

Between the two grant programs, the state awarded $20 million to nearly two dozen postsecondary institutions.