National Alliance for Eye and Vision Research
Website: eyeresearch.org
Contact: 240-351-3413
About NAEVR
The National Alliance for Eye and Vision Research (NAEVR) is a dynamic 501(c)(4) nonprofit advocacy organization representing a powerful coalition of nearly 50 professional societies, patient groups, consumer advocates, and industry partners united by a shared mission: to advance eye and vision research that protects sight and transforms lives. Since 1997, NAEVR has served as the leading voice on Capitol Hill championing robust federal investment in vision science through agencies such as the National Eye Institute (NEI) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Department of Defense (DoD), the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and others. Our advocacy and public education efforts are dedicated to ensuring that all Americans can benefit from cutting-edge research that leads to better treatments, cures, and care. As an affiliate of the Alliance for Eye and Vision Research (AEVR)—a 501(c)(3) educational foundation founded in 1993 by leaders such as ARVO, AAO, and AUPO—NAEVR proudly serves as the “Friends of the NEI.” Together, we highlight the life-changing impact of NEI-funded research, which not only preserves and restores vision but also reduces healthcare costs, enhances productivity, safeguards independence, and improves the quality of life for millions. Our alliances ensure that the promise of NEI-supported discoveries is recognized and translated into therapies and technologies that improve eye health nationwide.
About our programs
✅ Federal Advocacy Program Promotes robust federal funding for vision research through the National Eye Institute (NEI), Department of Defense, Department of Veterans Affairs, and other agencies. Includes direct advocacy with Congress, coalitions, and regulatory bodies.
✅ Emerging Vision Scientists Program Provides early-career vision researchers with a unique opportunity to present their work on Capitol Hill, engage with policymakers, and build advocacy skills that promote vision research funding.
✅ Congressional Briefings & Education Program Organizes educational briefings and events for Members of Congress, staff, and federal agencies to highlight the importance of federally funded vision research and its impact on public health.
✅ See What Matters Campaign (launching soon) A national campaign designed to raise public and policymaker awareness about the value of vision research, the impact of vision loss, and the urgent need for federal investment.
✅ Defense Vision Research Advocacy Initiative Advocates for sustained and enhanced funding for vision research programs within the Department of Defense’s Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP), ensuring the unique vision health needs of service members and veterans are addressed.
✅ Vision Health Advocacy Coalition Engagement Serves as a founding member and active participant in coalitions that unite patient groups, researchers, clinicians, and industry to speak with one voice in support of vision health policies.
How we’re making a difference
The National Alliance for Eye and Vision Research (NAEVR) is making a meaningful difference for patients living with ocular surface disease (OSD) and dry eye disease (DED) through targeted advocacy and public education. We work tirelessly to secure robust federal funding for vision research at the National Eye Institute (NEI) and other federal agencies, ensuring continued progress in understanding the causes of DED, improving treatments, and advancing innovative therapies. NAEVR also brings the voices of patients, researchers, and clinicians directly to Capitol Hill, raising awareness about the profound impact of DED on quality of life, productivity, and public health. Through congressional briefings, educational materials, and our emerging #SeeWhatMatters campaign, we spotlight the unmet needs in research and access to care for DED patients. By uniting stakeholders and advocating for sight-saving science, NAEVR is helping pave the way toward better outcomes and hope for those affected by this often-overlooked disease.
