INT Section Webinar: Navigating International Development Research in a Changing Funding Climate

Hosted by the International Section of AAEA Funded by the AAEA Trust The AAEA International Section will host a 90-minute virtual panel featuring three senior leaders in international development research: Christopher Barrett, Cornell University William Masters, Tufts University Anne Fitzpatrick, The Ohio State University Moderator: Alexis Villacis, Chair Int'l Section, The Ohio State University The objective is to provide AAEA members with candid, practical guidance on navigating the rapidly evolving funding and policy environment affecting international agricultural and international development research. Recent federal and non-federal funding shifts, restructuring of foreign assistance programs, changes in funder research priorities, and evolving language guidance in federal solicitations have created significant uncertainty for researchers doing international work. This panel will create space for scholars to share insights drawn from decades of experience leading large research programs, securing federal and foundation funding, and adapting to political and institutional transitions. It will also lead a discussion on current routes for adapting cancelled projects for new funding and/or seeking new funds in the current, tricky funding environment. Panelists will address: *Sustaining international research programs amid federal funding shifts *Diversifying funding portfolios (federal, foundations, private sector, multilateral institutions) *Writing competitive proposals in changing policy environments *Framing research for broad relevance while maintaining rigor *Mentoring junior scholars through uncertainty *Building institutional resilience and partnerships Target Audience *Faculty and researchers engaged in int'l agricultural and int'l development economics *Early-career scholars and graduate students *Researchers seeking to diversify funding sources *Section members navigating proposal strategies under evolving guidelines This event is especially timely for junior faculty and postdocs building international portfolios. May 27, 2026