How to Navigate Change in a Time of Uncertainty

How Life Science Associations Can Navigate Change and the NIH Downturn

The uncertainty in Washington is nothing new. But for those of us in the life sciences, the recent cuts to NIH funding feel particularly acute. These aren’t just numbers on a page –  they’re the lifeblood of innovation, partnership, and progress in research hubs across the country. For life science associations, the impact is direct. Our members are feeling it in their labs, in their grants, and in their hiring plans. The question isn’t whether we’ll need to adapt. It’s how.

As someone who has spent decades helping associations navigate change – from regional mergers to rebrands to pandemics – I’ve learned that disruption often opens doors we didn’t know we needed. But we have to be ready to walk through them.

Here are three practical ways associations can lead through this period of funding instability:

1. Refocus the Value Proposition

When traditional funding sources dry up, our members turn to us for connection, education, and new paths to sustainability. Associations should double down on tangible member value – through targeted programming, access to non-dilutive funding strategies, and increased visibility with potential investors and partners. This isn’t the time for one-size-fits-all events. It's time for curated, strategic offerings that align with what members actually need now.

2. Strengthen Regional Collaboration

National uncertainty often amplifies the importance of regional strength. During my time leading SEMDA and later Southeast Life Sciences, we unified seven state associations not out of convenience, but necessity. Shared programming like PitchRounds and the Medtech Women@SEMDA initiative gave smaller ecosystems a bigger voice and more leverage. In today’s environment, inter-association collaboration isn’t just smart – it’s survival.

3. Be the Bridge to Industry

When federal dollars shrink, private capital becomes more critical. Associations are uniquely positioned to connect startups and academic innovators with strategic partners, medtech companies, and VC firms. Programs that facilitate those introductions – at conferences, in curated cohorts, or even virtual pitch sessions – can help keep the innovation pipeline flowing even in lean times.

This moment calls for steady hands and bold vision. It calls for leaders who aren’t just waiting for NIH dollars to return, but actively creating new models of support and sustainability. Life science associations were built to convene, to champion, and to adapt.

Let’s do what we do best.