Abstract - The paper creates a dialog related to efforts within the Space Science and Earth Science Enterprises to work with HBCU/MIs in enhancing their ability to effectively navigate the solicitation and funding process within major agencies including NASA and The National Science Foundation. Relevant issues will be discussed including HBCU/MI science infrastructure, faculty long range research strategy, and diversity of mentoring models for underrepresented minority students. The establishment of successful partnerships between HBCU/MIs and government laboratories, majority universities and other institutions will also be discussed. Examples will be presented from current and past experiences HBCU/MIs including results from the NASA MUCERPI 2003 Space Science solicitation and NASA Research Announcements in Earth Science.