Sacramento State University Invests $23 Million to Elevate Football Program to NCAA Division I FBS
Sacramento State University is investing $23 million to transition its football program to NCAA Division I FBS and join the Mid-American Conference (MAC). This significant financial gamble, funded by donors and corporate partnerships, aims to elevate the university's profile in…
Fargo Valley City, ND, September 18, 2026 — Sacramento State University has announced a significant investment of $23 million as it aims to transition its football program to the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) level and become a member of the Mid-American Conference (MAC).
The university’s leadership views this substantial financial undertaking as a strategic move to enhance its national profile, particularly within a major media market, by competing in one of college football’s top tiers.
Funding for this initiative is expected to come from a combination of private donors and corporate partnerships. The allocated funds will cover a range of expenses associated with the transition. These include conference fees required for joining the MAC, NCAA transition fees mandated for moving up to the FBS level, and the costs associated with hosting visiting conference teams by covering their travel expenses.
University officials have characterized the move as a worthwhile long-term investment, projecting that the increased visibility and prestige associated with FBS football will yield benefits for the institution beyond athletics.
The specific timeline for the full transition and the exact operational details of the program’s move to the FBS level and MAC membership were not detailed in the announcement, beyond the stated financial commitment.
Story summarized from the original created by Jeff Kolpack on www.inforum.com, see more information here.
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