Alliance for Vision Research hosts congressional briefings that bring together researchers, clinicians, patient advocates, industry leaders, and policymakers to highlight advances in vision science and the real-world impact of vision loss. These briefings provide Congress with insights into emerging research, unmet needs, and the importance of sustained federal investment in vision research.
Championing the future of vision research
Alliance for Vision Research is the nation’s leading advocate for robust federal funding and strong policy support for the vision science community.
We unite researchers, patients, clinicians, industry, and policymakers to support and protect federally funded research programs, including the National Eye Institute and the Vision Research Program within the Department of Defense’s Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program, to accelerate innovation and ensure that sight-saving research remains a national priority.
Because when it comes to the future of vision, we must all #SeeWhatMatters.
Advocacy, education, and action for the future of vision research
Researchers drive discovery, but advocacy and education make progress possible. The Alliance for Vision Research works to protect federal funding, empower scientists, and inform policymakers and the public about the importance of sight-saving research.
Advocating for the science that protects sight
We champion federal support for vision research that drives innovation and saves sight. With education and engagement, and the support of our partners and advocates, we keep research funding a national priority.
Shaping a strong policy future for vision
We work with Congress and federal agencies to protect sustained investment in biomedical discovery, ensuring the policies shaping science today strengthen the breakthroughs of tomorrow.
Training the future of vision research
Through the transformative Emerging Vision Scientist Program, early-career investigators are trained to gain the skills and confidence to share their science, engage with policymakers, and champion the future of sight-saving research.
Driving vision research forward together
We unite academia, industry, patient groups, and policymakers to amplify the voice of the vision research community and advance solutions that improve lives.
Elevating sight-saving science on Capitol Hill
Through congressional briefings, we connect scientists, patients, industry, and policymakers to share discoveries and demonstrate how vision research funding drives innovation and improves lives.
Latest News
Explore related stories, resources, and updates on vision research advocacy and policy.
FY27 Funding
More than 100 Organizations Call on Congress to Protect the National Eye Institute and Strengthen Vision Research Funding
Broad Coalition Urges Congress to Maintain NEI Independence, Reject Harmful Research Policies, and Provide $1 Billion for Vision Research FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Washington, D.C. — Alliance for Vision Research today announced that more than 100 organizations representing patients, researchers, clinicians, academic institutions, professional societies, vision advocates, and industry partners have joined together in a unified … Continued
FY27 Funding
Alliance for Vision Research Urges Immediate Action to Protect Independent Scientific Review
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Alliance for Vision Research Urges Immediate Action to Protect Independent Scientific Review WASHINGTON — June 3, 2026 — Alliance for Vision Research is calling on researchers, clinicians, patients, advocates, institutions, and industry partners to take immediate action in response to a newly proposed Office of Management and Budget (OMB) rule that could … Continued
FY27 Funding
Alliance for Vision Research Joins National Healthcare from the Eye Consortium
Alliance for Vision Research has officially joined the Alliance for Healthcare from the Eye (AHE), a growing cross-sector consortium focused on advancing the emerging field of oculomics and transforming healthcare through insights from the eye. The Alliance recently participated in the AHE Spring Meeting held May 2 in Denver, where leaders from across healthcare, research, … Continued
FY27 Funding
Alliance for Vision Research Board Member T. Rowan Candy Receives 2026 Davida Teller Award
Alliance for Vision Research proudly congratulates Board Member T. Rowan Candy, PhD, MCOptom of Indiana University on being named the recipient of the 2026 Davida Teller Award, a distinguished honor recognizing outstanding contributions to vision science and pediatric visual development research. The award is presented by The Vision Sciences Society (VSS), an international organization dedicated … Continued
FY27 Funding
Legislative Update – May 2026
The Federal Funding Landscape is Rapidly Evolving The federal funding and policy environment for biomedical research is entering a pivotal period as Congress shifts from finalizing FY26 appropriations to shaping the FY27 budget. The future of vision research will be determined not only by funding levels, but by policy decisions impacting how research is funded, … Continued
