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#SeeWhatMatters

Stand Up for Sight-Saving Science

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Because the future depends on what we see today

Championing Science that Protects Sight and Transforms Lives

Every discovery in vision science brings us closer to preventing blindness and restoring hope. We exist to ensure that progress never loses focus.

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Protecting the research that defines the future of vision health

Advancing Science

Advocate for robust federal funding

We educate Congress, federal agencies, and national decisionmakers about the economic, scientific, and human impact of vision research. We fight to protect the National Eye Institute and strengthen support for discovery across all eye diseases.

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Amplify the voices of scientists and patients

Through briefings, advocacy days, and our #SeeWhatMatters campaign, we bring forward the human stories that shape policy, including the breakthroughs, the challenges, and the urgency of continued investment.

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Train the next generation of vision science advocates

Our Emerging Vision Scientist Program develops early-career researchers into powerful advocates who can articulate the value of their work to policymakers and the public.

Emerging Vision Scientist Program

Convene and connect the vision research ecosystem

We unite researchers, clinicians, patient advocates, institutions, and industry partners to drive coordinated, national action for vision science.

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A nation at risk of losing sight and funding

Vision loss affects more than 12 million Americans, yet federal research funding has not kept pace with the growing burden of eye disease. When investment lags, progress slows—delaying earlier detection, better treatments, and potential cures.

$200B
ANNUAL COST

Vision and eye health issues cost the U.S. economy nearly $200 billion annually and, without sustained investment in research and care, are shown to approach $400 billion by 2050.

60%
VISION IMPAIREMENT & BLINDNESS

Nearly 60% of Americans over 40 experience vision or eye health issues, affecting daily life, independence, and quality of life for millions nationwide.

50M
VISION LOSS CRISIS

In the U.S., more than 50 million adults experience some level of vision loss, highlighting the urgent need for sustained investment in research, early detection, and effective care.

90M+
RISK FACTORS

Over 93 million U.S. adults are at high risk for serious vision loss, underscoring the need for sustained investment in research, prevention, and access to quality eye care.

Why our impact matters

Our work ensures that vision research remains a national priority, that policymakers hear directly from those whose lives are changed by discovery, and that the next generation of vision scientists is empowered to lead. Together with our partners, we are building a future where sight is safeguarded for millions.

Protecting federal vision research funding

Through persistent advocacy and coalition-building, we help secure and protect federal funding for vision research—even during periods of budget uncertainty—ensuring lifesaving discoveries continue.

Safeguarding the NEI

We advocate to keep NEI a standalone institute, protecting the expertise, funding pathways, and national focus needed to address blinding eye diseases.

Uniting science and patient voices

We advocate to keep NEI a standalone institute, protecting the expertise and focus needed to address blinding eye diseases.

Developing vision advocacy leaders

Our Emerging Vision Scientists Program builds advocacy capacity among early-career researchers, giving them visibility, skills, and support to champion the importance of federally funded science throughout their careers.

Championing vision research for service members

The DoD Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs’ Vision Research Program receives strong, consistent advocacy to protect and grow its critical investments in military-relevant vision science.

The stakes are clear

Vision research is at a crossroads. Millions of Americans live with vision loss, and millions more are at risk. Yet, the federal investment that fuels discovery and innovation faces growing uncertainty. Without sustained support, breakthroughs that prevent blindness and improve quality of life are at risk of slowing or stopping altogether.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question:

What does Alliance for Vision Research do?

We advance vision research funding by connecting science, policy, and people. Through advocacy, strategic communications, and stakeholder engagement, we ensure vision research is understood, prioritized, and funded at the federal level.

Question:

Do you conduct research?

No—we don’t conduct research directly. Instead, we amplify and support the work of the vision research community by translating scientific advancements into clear, compelling messages that resonate with policymakers and the public.

Question:

Why is advocacy for vision research important?

Federal funding and policy decisions directly shape the future of vision research. Without strong advocacy, critical programs and discoveries risk being underfunded or overlooked. Advocacy ensures that vision research remains a national priority

Question:

Who do you work with?

We bring together researchers, clinicians, patients, industry leaders, nonprofit organizations, and policymakers to align around a shared goal: advancing vision research and improving patient outcomes.

Question:

What are your key initiatives?

Our work includes congressional briefings, national advocacy campaigns like #SeeWhatMatters, and programs such as the Emerging Vision Scientist Program, which prepares the next generation of researchers to engage in advocacy.

Question:

How do you influence policy?

Vision disorders are increasing rapidly, and without sustained investment, millions risk losing independence and quality of life. At the same time, policy and funding decisions being made today will determine the future of innovation and care.