About the Business for Federal Research Funding Coalition

A small portion of the federal budget, research and development has been one of the most significant and effective investments by the federal government in the 20th and 21st centuries – leading to lifesaving medical treatments, new frontiers in space and ocean exploration, and new technologies that transform how we communicate and conduct business. As business leaders, we understand that economic uncertainty often forces hard decisions – Americans and businesses across the country are examining their own spending – line by line – to determine whether the payoff or return of each investment is worth it. Business for Federal Research Funding (BFRF) is a national coalition of Chambers of Commerce and business associations that advocates for maintaining and strategically increasing research funding in the federal budget – a smart and worthwhile investment that advances economic development.

We agree with others who have given voice to the generations of American ingenuity produced through federal support, and our shared underlying values of advancing access to science, technology, and medical research and education. But we joined together because we believe that what is missing from the current conversation is the vital role federal research funding plays in supporting local and state businesses, entrepreneurship, millions of Americans’ jobs, and our global competitiveness. Our coalition is united by our shared appreciation for the impact of federal research dollars across every local and state economy. The BFRF coalition will engage members of Congress and the Administration to advocate for research funding that saves lives, promotes entrepreneurship, and strengthens our nation’s economy.