RollingOut has published an analysis of seven Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HCBUs) that have proximity to corporate headquarters and how that synergy benefits all parties. 

“This synergy between HBCUs and thriving corporate environments creates unique opportunities for students, offering them access to internships, employment and networking that can significantly enhance their future careers.”

Here is the listing from the publication:

1. Howard University — one of the most prestigious HBCUs — is located in Washington, D.C., the nation’s capital. The city is not only the political hub of the United States but also a thriving business center with top corporate headquarters like Amazon’s second headquarters (Amazon HQ2) and numerous Fortune 500 companies.
2. Spelman College — a renowned institution for women — is situated in Atlanta, Georgia. Atlanta is home to the headquarters of several Fortune 500 companies, including Coca-Cola, Delta Air Lines and Home Depot. 
3. North Carolina A&T State University in Greensboro, North Carolina, is a leading HBCU in the fields of engineering, science and technology. Greensboro is part of the Piedmont Triad — which includes High Point and Winston-Salem — and hosts major corporate headquarters like Honda Aircraft Company and VF Corporation.
4. Hampton University — located in Hampton, Virginia — is another prestigious HBCU with a strong focus on the sciences, business and technology. Hampton is part of the Hampton Roads metropolitan area, home to major corporate and military headquarters, including Huntington Ingalls Industries and the Norfolk Naval Station.
5. Texas Southern University (TSU) is situated in Houston, Texas, one of the largest and most economically vibrant cities in the United States. Houston is known for its concentration of corporate headquarters — particularly in the energy sector — with companies like ExxonMobil, Chevron and ConocoPhillips based there.
6. Florida A&M University (FAMU) is located in Tallahassee, Florida, the state capital. While Tallahassee may not have the corporate presence of cities like Atlanta or Houston, it is within close proximity to major corporate hubs in Florida — including Jacksonville and Orlando — where companies like CSX and Walt Disney World are headquartered.
7. Morehouse College — another Atlanta-based HBCU — is a leading institution for men of color, known for its rigorous academic programs and strong alumni network. Like Spelman, Morehouse students benefit from Atlanta’s status as a major corporate hub.

This analysis sheds light on an often overlooked dynamic: the relationship between HBCUs and nearby corporate headquarters. For corporate real estate (CRE) professionals, this connection is more than just geographical coincidence—it represents a strategic advantage. Understanding how HBCUs and thriving business environments interplay can inform decisions on site selection, investment opportunities, and community engagement. By recognizing the value these educational institutions bring to the corporate ecosystem, real estate professionals can better anticipate future trends, identify potential talent pools, and leverage their proximity to attract top-tier talent and foster meaningful partnerships, making it a critical consideration for anyone involved in CRE strategy.