The University of Texas at Austin is a thriving hub of research, learning and discovery that serves as a pipeline for current and future generations of global changemakers. Exceptional minds come to the Forty Acres to experience the highest level of excellence.
We enter our final year of the What Starts Here fundraising campaign with tremendous momentum, thanks to you — our alumni, friends and discerning investors.
Help us keep Texas on top with your ongoing support for our highest priorities and our focus on world-changing endeavors.
Your gifts enable us to recruit exceptional students and faculty and help them reach their greatest potential, offering the tools they need to accomplish their goals and improve their communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the What Starts Here campaign?
The What Starts Here campaign began as the most ambitious fundraising effort in the history of The University of Texas at Austin and the state of Texas. The campaign closes in August 2026 with record-breaking investment from our alumni, friends and partners. Going forward, we will continue our focus on creating bold leaders, meeting the needs of our community, developing innovative solutions, rethinking what’s possible in health care, and always living up to our promise: What starts here changes the world.
Why is UT in a campaign?
How do I participate in the campaign?
Making a gift online is the fastest way to support the campaign. You can also explore other ways to give, from mailing a check to including UT in your estate plan, here.
How will my gift be used?
Your gift goes to the college, school, unit, program or other cause that you specify. You can choose to give to a general purpose — like the UT scholarships fund — or to a specific person or program that is close to your heart. Every gift makes a difference.
How does my gift make a difference?
UT is a university of the first class because of the generous support we receive from our donors. State funding supports basic university operations, but it’s your support that drives excellence. Every dollar of your gift goes to the purpose you specify and supports the students, faculty and researchers who change the world.
Why does a state university need a fundraising campaign?
UT’s revenue comes from three main sources: state support, tuition and philanthropy. Private support is the primary source of funding that recruits new talent, makes innovation possible and drives a vibrant future for Texas. In fact, donor support has long been a cornerstone of UT’s success — donors gave some of the Forty Acres’ first buildings, contributed the funds that built Texas Memorial Stadium, invested in faculty endowments in the 1980s and realized transformational new endeavors like Dell Medical School.