Federal Impact Survey 2025 Results

Thank you to everyone who took the time to complete our survey on the impact of U.S. government funding cuts. With over 200 responses from nonprofits, universities, schools, consultants, and businesses over February and March, your input has given us a powerful picture of the challenges we’re all facing.

We knew these cuts were going to hit hard, but seeing the numbers makes it even more real. Layoffs, program cancellations, uncertainty about the future—it’s unsettling, to say the least. We don’t know exactly what’s ahead, but please know that we’re in this together. We’re keeping a close eye on what’s happening, collaborating with partners across sectors, and actively working to find new funding and a coordinated response.

Here's what the survey results tell us:

Immediate Consequences

• More than 60% of respondents are deeply concerned about the future of their programs and organizations.
• 42% have already faced staff reductions or expect them soon.
• 40% have had to pause or cancel programs.
• 46% are concerned about cuts’ disproportionate impact on vulnerable communities
• 9% have been told to avoid using terms like climate change, intercultural, social equity, empowering students, and multiculturalism.

What's at Risk

• DEI initiatives that protect civil rights and support equitable solutions to environmental and social issues
• Programs providing access for low-income families, people of color, youth, and underserved communities
• Climate change education and conservation education efforts
• PreK–12 programming in agriculture, nutrition, and outdoor learning
• Research and evaluation to help support effective practice throughout

View more results, including quotes from those affected, in the NAAEE Federal Funding Impact Survey Slides March 2025.