The U.S. higher education expenditure on R&D is forecasted to rise steadily from 2024 to 2028. In 2024, the expenditure is projected at $91.37 billion, increasing yearly to $101.49 billion by 2028. Assuming the expenditure in 2023 stood at a similar level as 2024, the growth reflects a gradual increase in commitment to R&D within higher education. Year-on-year growth from 2024 to 2025 is 2.82%, with an average compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 2.62% over the five-year period from 2024 to 2028.

Future trends to watch for include:

Increased investment in technology and innovation-driven projects.
Greater collaboration between universities and the private sector.
Potential shifts in funding priorities influenced by government policy and economic conditions.