(The Center Square) – Virginia Tech’s Board of Visitors will meet Sept. 30 to vote on a resolution that would adopt a four-year athletics budget adjustment totaling $229.2 million.
Board materials say the goal is to compete with the top programs in the Atlantic Coast Conference, with NCAA-reported annual operating expenses projected to grow from $156.8 million in fiscal year 2026 to $212.1 million by 2029.
University officials cite a changing college sports landscape and a widening gap between top programs and others. They note potential losses in media rights, ticket sales, sponsorships and regional economic activity if the school does not increase spending.
The funding plan draws from several sources. Institutional support totals $48.3 million over four years, according to agenda documents.
The documents also say student fees are projected to add $21.3 million, based on an estimated $100 annual increase per student.
Private fundraising would account for $120 million, while bridge funding would account for $39.6 million.
Board documents state the plan does not directly affect current academic operations, although it could limit flexibility for new investments.
Board materials call the proposal “a meaningful investment” meant to ensure athletics continues to have “a positive impact on the university, the region, and the commonwealth.” If approved, the budget would reach $212.1 million by 2029, a level board members say is needed to remain competitive in the Atlantic Coast Conference.
As previously reported by The Center Square, attending a public university in Virginia now costs about $30,000 a year for in-state students, up 40% since 2006 after inflation.The Virginia Public Access Project reports that at Virginia Tech, the average total cost for in-state undergraduates is about $29,426 per year.
The meeting is scheduled for Sept. 30.
