Harvard University Commits $250M to Sustain Critical Research Amid Federal Funding Crisis
Cambridge, MA – May 16, 2025 – Harvard University has announced a bold $250 million commitment to preserve groundbreaking research in the face of unprecedented federal funding cuts totaling $2.6 billion. The cuts, enacted by the Trump administration, have disrupted vital projects in medicine, engineering, and science, prompting Harvard to take swift action to protect its mission of advancing knowledge for the public good.
In a joint statement, Harvard President Alan Garber and Provost John Manning described the university’s response as a necessary step to safeguard “lifesaving and life-changing” research. The suspended federal grants supported critical studies on tuberculosis, Alzheimer’s disease, pandemic preparedness, and advanced materials for national security. “While we cannot fully replace the magnitude of these federal funds, Harvard is mobilizing its resources to ensure our researchers can continue their transformative work during this transitional period,” they said.
The federal cuts, which the administration justified as a response to alleged discrimination and antisemitism, have sparked outrage across academia. Harvard, joined by other leading institutions, is challenging the decision in court, calling the freeze “unlawful” and a direct threat to scientific progress. “This is not just an attack on Harvard—it’s an attack on innovation that benefits millions worldwide,” Garber emphasized.
To bolster its financial position, Harvard has secured $750 million in borrowing to maintain liquidity. The university is also exploring alternative funding from private philanthropy, industry partnerships, and international grants. However, Harvard’s $53.2 billion endowment, one of the largest in the world, is heavily restricted, limiting its ability to fully offset the shortfall. Garber acknowledged the road ahead will require “difficult decisions and sacrifices” to prioritize the most impactful projects.
Harvard’s research community has rallied behind the university’s response. Dr. Emily Chen, a lead researcher in neurodegenerative diseases, praised the commitment. “This funding gives us hope that our work on Alzheimer’s won’t grind to a halt. Every day matters for patients waiting for breakthroughs,” she said.
The university’s swift action underscores its role as a global leader in research and innovation. Harvard has vowed to continue its legal fight while working tirelessly to secure new funding streams. “We are resolute in our commitment to advancing knowledge and addressing humanity’s greatest challenges,” Manning said. “This moment demands resilience, and Harvard will rise to meet it.”
As the legal battle unfolds and the academic community watches closely, Harvard’s $250 million pledge sends a powerful message: the pursuit of discovery will not be silenced. For now, researchers can press forward, buoyed by the university’s unwavering support in a time of crisis.
For more information, contact Harvard University Communications at comm@harvard.edu.