This report provides data on the geographical distribution patterns of federal research and development and other funds to colleges and universities, information on federal programs established in the 1960's to strengthen academic science, and factors accounting for progress by universities in competing for federal funds. Summarizing statements are followed by extensive data tables, graphs, and charts. Highlights of this report include the following: science funds provided in 1974 amounted to $2 billion for research and development and $651 million for plant and equipment, training, education, and other science activities; about $1.7 billion was provided for nonscience activities; geographical distribution of federal funds to colleges and universities has broadened in the past decade, both for science and nonscience funds; the top 100 institutions in 1964 received 85% of the total federal funds, whereas the top 100 institutions in 1974 received 66%. A fairly close correlation was found between the regional distribution of federal R&D funds and the geographical location of science manpower associated with the colleges and universities. (MH)