The HRA Research Workforce & Early Career Development Learning Community held an open mic discussion to learn how various funders are adapting their funding programs and mechanisms to better support the research workforce during federal budget cuts. This session invited input from across the research community to explore innovative and practical ways funding organizations can strengthen support for vulnerable investigators at all stages of their careers.

Three key strategies were identified as particularly promising:

• Bridge funding models, such as those implemented by the AASM Foundation, which help maintain research momentum during funding gaps.
• Extended funding periods, like those offered by the JCC, providing researchers with longer-term support to prevent job loss and immigration challenges.
• Support new resources, such as pro bono immigration guidance, for researchers