Detroit City Wire

The Detroit Regional Chamber has joined forces with over 35 chambers of commerce nationwide to relaunch the Business for Federal Research Funding Coalition. The coalition, which includes leadership from the Greater Boston and Greater Durham Chambers, aims to advocate for essential research funding that benefits Michigan.

This initiative comes in response to increasing federal budget cuts and their potential impact on businesses. A significant concern is the new cap on indirect costs for NIH grants. These costs cover necessary infrastructure and equipment for research at universities, hospitals, and other centers. With a fixed cap, researchers may face administrative burdens that could detract from their focus on critical healthcare challenges.

Federal funding is crucial as it represents taxpayer investment in research solutions. Advancements in medical technologies can lead to reduced insurance costs and lower Medicare spending on previously incurable diseases. Historical federal investments have also led to consumer innovations like GPS and instant mashed potatoes.

The Chamber urges those receiving federal funding, particularly NIH grants, to contact their congressional representatives promptly. The Chamber’s Public Policy and Business Advocacy team offers support in these advocacy efforts, emphasizing the importance of federal research dollars for Michigan's economy.