Having a digital presence is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. For researchers seeking funding, a website is one of the most powerful tools to establish credibility, showcase achievements, and connect with potential sponsors. Especially now, with federal funding cuts, hiring freezes, and constant uncertainty, it’s more important than ever to attract funding from non-government sources.

OpenScholar websites are on-brand for your institution and are designed to highlight labs, centers, individual faculty, and anything research-related. It’s no longer okay to think of websites for research as a nice-to-have. They are absolutely essential. With OpenScholar’s self-service platform, your organization can put research in the spotlight for a fraction of the cost of an FTE, and with benefits far outweighing the costs.

Here’s why having OpenScholar websites that highlight the research at your organization are critical for securing funding opportunities:

1. Establishing credibility and visibility

A well-crafted website acts as a professional portfolio, showcasing expertise, research projects, and accomplishments to a global audience. Potential funders often perform background checks to assess the credibility of a researcher before funding. A website ensures that their achievements are readily accessible, leaving a strong first impression and positioning them as a leading expert in their field.

2. Showcasing your work

A website is a dynamic platform where details of research projects, publications, and breakthroughs can be shared. Visual elements like infographics, videos, and project timelines can make complex research more understandable and engaging for non-specialists, including funders without technical backgrounds. This accessibility increases the chances of attracting interest and support.

3. Building connections and networking

An OpenScholar website opens up networking opportunities with peers, institutions, and potential collaborators. By including contact information and links to social media profiles, with information flowing up to a dashboard compiling information across every OpenScholar site, it becomes easier for like-minded individuals and organizations to reach out. Strong networks often lead to funding opportunities through partnerships, grants, and sponsored projects.

Demonstrating impact

Funders are not only interested in research but also in its potential impact on society, industry, or academia. A website can be used to highlight the broader implications of a researcher’s work, such as solving real-world problems, advancing scientific knowledge, or contributing to policy changes. Incorporating testimonials or case studies further demonstrates the significance of the research.

Enhancing Accessibility

A website is a 24/7 gateway to scholarly work, breaking down geographic and temporal barriers. Funders from anywhere in the world can access your sites at their convenience, ensuring there are no limits based on location or time zones. This increased accessibility can broaden the range of available funding opportunities.

Conclusion

Creating and maintaining a professional OpenScholar website is an investment that pays dividends in attracting funding for research. It’s a space where researchers control the narrative, present their work in the best light, and forge connections that can propel a career forward. In today’s digital age, funders expect transparency and accessibility—having a website not only meets these expectations but exceeds them.

So, if you don’t yet have OpenScholar, it’s time to take the leap. The next groundbreaking research project to receive funding could very well be yours.