Bucks for Brains Program
In 1997 the Kentucky legislature approved a bold plan to reform the state?s system of higher education. The goal was to
develop a "seamless, integrated system of postsecondary education strategically planned and adequately funded to enhance
economic development and quality of life."
To that end, the state created The Research Challenge Trust Fund, a strategic investment in university research designed
to create new jobs, new dollars and new opportunities for Kentucky citizens. Commonly known as "Bucks for Brains", the
program uses state funds to attract and match private donations, effectively doubling the investment to support research in
defined areas key to the state.
In 1998 Kentucky legislators invested $110 million in general fund appropriations to support Bucks for Brains at the
state's research and regional universities. They reinforced that commitment with an additional $120 million in 2000 and
another $120 million in 2003.
This funding has allowed the University of Louisville to bring many prominent scholars to Brown Cancer Center to work
alongside the our already outstanding current staff. In return, these preeminent researchers are creating economic
opportunities, enhancing the education of our students and drawing international attention to The Brown Cancer Center
with significant breakthroughs, including numerous cancer discoveries that will lead to a better quality of life for
people everywhere.