An unprecedented act of financial support, in the form of 90 billion rubles for leading Russian universities, has rocked the professional community. With stakes in the development of university science and research, the State has started to take action towards strengthening and amplifying science programs. After determining leading universities (including both research and federal centers) which, in addition to enjoying a high status also receive additional funds, the Ministry of Education and Science has unveiled a new competition for higher educational institutions. This competition focuses on cooperation with business, strengthening the infrastructure needed for innovation, and attracting leading scientists. As early as this fall, the winners are expected to begin receiving funding to the tune of millions of rubles, which should allow them to pursue the most daring and ambitious projects.