Why Support VIMSF?
Giving to the VIMS Foundation
The Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) leads the nation in coastal and estuarine research, education, and advisory service. The results of VIMS research benefits people in Virginia, the nation, and the world. Science knows no borders.
In order to attract and retain the best and most productive faculty and students, VIMS must maintain competitive salaries and stipends, as well as cutting-edge facilities and scientific equipment.
However, the Commonwealth of Virginia now funds less than half the VIMS budget. The remainder comes from sponsored research grants and private giving. Given the realities of state and federal funding today, VIMS is ever more dependent on building private support.
The margin of excellence for VIMS and the School of Marine Science depends in large part on the generosity of our donors. Their support plays a vital role in helping VIMS researchers identify problems and create solutions to issues that affect people’s everyday lives.
Private giving also helps VIMS nurture the talented young scientists needed to address the pressing issues facing our environment. VIMS graduates go on to careers in academia, business, and state and federal agencies, where they provide fundamental knowledge and help craft public policies to sustainably manage our marine resources.