Medical writer Lauran Neergaard knew from years of covering the National Institutes of Health (NIH) that research funding does far more than support scientists in laboratories—it leads to medical discoveries, treatments for diseases, and drives local economies across the country. But how could AP show the impact of potential budget cuts in a way that resonated with readers?
Data journalist Kasturi Pananjady tackled the numbers, using an NIH portal to gather grant funding data by institution and state. She then worked with experts frequently consulted by Congress to translate what these cuts could mean for medical research, patient care, and economic activity.
Meanwhile, video journalist Shelby Lum visited Johns Hopkins University, one of the largest NIH grant recipients, to interview scientists about their work and its direct impact on patients and communities.
The result was a powerful all-formats package that crystalized how these otherwise vague and faceless cuts could disrupt health care and economic stability nationwide. The package was further strengthened by a Localize It guide, allowing AP members to explore the effects in their own states.
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