FORwARd Framework for Addressing Research Funding Cuts

This guide outlines the FORwARd framework, which provides a structured approach for institutions to respond to potential reductions in federal research funding. The document details four key steps: scenario planning, intervention prioritization, impact analysis, and response strategy. Scenario planning involves assessing the potential impacts of funding cuts and estimating funding gaps. Intervention prioritization focuses on developing a list of actionable solutions to enhance revenue or reduce costs. The impact analysis phase requires institutions to conduct a financial assessment of the prioritized interventions to determine their feasibility and benefits. Finally, the response strategy phase emphasizes creating detailed implementation plans for each scenario identified, ensuring institutions are prepared to act swiftly in the face of funding disruptions. The guide emphasizes the importance of proactive planning to maintain research missions and drive innovation despite financial challenges.