The Friends of the National Institute of Nursing Research (FNINR) is an independent, non-profit organization founded in 1993. Nurse researchers are grounded in clinical nursing practice and focused on the physical, mental, emotional and social needs of patients. They recognize the illness and the presence of health risk factors affecting the overall well-being of individuals.

The healthcare community faces new challenges and opportunities to improve patient care each year. With the continuing leadership provided by NINR and the support of FNINR, nurse researchers will continue to contribute to the enhanced health and well-being of all Americans, especially in a time when cost-effectiveness and quality of care are equally championed by the public and the Nation’s decision makers.

FNINR Statement

As the Friends of the National Institute of Nursing Research (FNINR), we are actively advocating for continued support of NINR and nursing research. NINR is facing a proposed NIH restructuring that would merge it into a new national institute, along with significant financial and staffing reductions—especially those implemented on April 1, which directly impacted NINR.

Since the proposed restructuring was announced in 2024, our Advocacy Committee and Ambassadors have adopted a multi-pronged approach to champion NINR and nursing research. We have strengthened collaborations with key organizations and coalitions to gather information, identify shared concerns, and align our efforts. Through these partnerships, we have broadened our legislative outreach, ensuring our concerns are amplified alongside many others.

To enhance our advocacy reach, FNINR has expanded the Ambassador Program to nearly 50 individuals, enabling more direct engagement with legislators. Our ambassadors regularly connect with their representatives and senators to underscore the importance of nursing research and NINR. To further these efforts, FNINR will host a virtual Ambassador Hill Day on May 7 to expand outreach and advocacy.

We have also sought to raise public and professional awareness. Several of our board members recently published an Opinion Piece highlighting the urgency of this issue.

FNINR has built strong coalitions and maintains ongoing dialogue with numerous legislators. However, the situation remains fluid and continues to evolve. We will continue to keep abreast of changes and inform our key stakeholders as we continue to advocate tirelessly to protect the future of nursing research.