2024-2025 Impact Report

Dear Friends, Partners, and Innovators,

As we reflect on Fiscal Year 2024-2025, I am proud to share a year defined by bold investments, strong partnerships, and a continued commitment to Michigan State University’s mission of discovery and impact.

This year, the MSU Research Foundation designated $75 million to support MSU’s comprehensive campaign, Uncommon Will, Far Better World. This historic commitment reinforces our belief in the power of research, innovation, and entrepreneurship to address society’s most pressing challenges. From faculty-led breakthroughs to startup acceleration, our funding continues to strengthen the university’s global impact.

Our stewardship of cisplatin licensing royalties, which have now generated over $400 million, continues to support life-saving research, talent development, and entrepreneurial growth. Fiscal Year 2024-2025 also marked a year of strategic progress across our innovation hubs in East Lansing, Grand Rapids, and Detroit, where we connect researchers, founders, and industry leaders with the resources they need to thrive.

Whether through technology transfer, endowed professorships, research infrastructure, or startup services, our mission remains clear: to help turn ideas into real-world impact.

This past year, we also paid tribute to the founder of the MSU Research Foundation, Dr. Clifton R. Wharton Jr., who passed away in November 2024 at the age of 98. Dr. Wharton created the Foundation in 1973 while serving as president of Michigan State University.

As we look ahead, we remain committed to building a resilient, inclusive, and forward-thinking innovation ecosystem. Thank you for your continued partnership and belief in our work. Together, we’re shaping a future that’s not only far better–but unmistakably Spartan.

With gratitude,