Federal Research Investment and Innovation in Information Technology: A Virtuous Cycle

Membership in ACM includes a subscription to Communications of the ACM (CACM), the computing industry's most trusted source for staying connected to the world of advanced computing. Federal investment in research has consistently served as the bedrock of American innovation, driving scientific breakthroughs, fostering economic growth, and enhancing national security. This is particularly evident in the field of computing, where foundational government funding has translated into transformative technologies and the rise of entirely new industries. Far from being a drain on public resources, these strategic investments act as a powerful catalyst, creating a virtuous cycle of discovery, application, and prosperity. One of the most compelling arguments for federal research funding lies in its ability to support basic, high-risk, long-term research the private sector is often unwilling or unable to undertake.