Business Leaders Affirm Universities Are Critical to America’s Competitiveness
An Open Letter from Leadership Now Members and Business Leaders Nationwide
On June 18, 2025, more than 200 CEOs, founders, and executives joined Leadership Now Project’s open letter urging Congress and the administration to reverse sweeping federal actions threatening U.S. research universities.
Universities are engines of innovation and economic growth—driving breakthroughs from cancer treatments to AI, training the workforce, and attracting global talent. But sharp funding cuts and abrupt visa restrictions are already forcing programs to scale back and delaying critical research.
The letter underscores the essential role of higher education in sustaining U.S. competitiveness and calls for restored research funding, due process, and academic independence.
Signers span 34 states and key industries—finance (37%), professional services (33%), technology and media (25%), and manufacturing (10%).
We are continuing to collect signatories—add your name to stand with business leaders affirming the vital role of U.S. universities and to receive updates on how to stay engaged.