When Funding Gets Cut, Research Shouldn’t Stop—And Neither Will We

In the unpredictable world of biotech, one constant remains: the urgency to keep pushing science forward. But as market pressures, financial slowdowns, and capital constraints challenge our industry, your work feels the impact.

Article Table of Contents

1. How scientific funding evolved in 2025?
2. What opportunities are available in scientific research funding?
3. What are the benefits of using a financial solution? 

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How is Scientific Funding Evolving in 2025?

The biotechnology industry is facing big changes. In an already stressful environment for biotechs, funding has become a challenge and companies are scaling back as their cash runway shortens. Nature Biotechnology refers to 2025 as a “new era of biotech finance.”¹

We explore how researchers and biotech leaders are navigating these headwinds by adopting non-dilutive, flexible financial approaches—from leasing and milestone-driven planning to payment deferral strategies that align with development cycles.

In uncertain times, science doesn’t stop—and neither should your ability to move forward.

> Explore Thermo Fisher Financial Solutions

How are biotech leaders overcoming all industry challenges? We interviewed 157 senior leaders in biotech across the US, Canada, and the UK in December 2024, with additional interviews conducted in April 2025, to uncover a snapshot of the dynamic industry we face today. Download our full report for more.

What opportunities are available for scientific research funding?

There are a variety of financial and leasing solutions designed to help you preserve capital today while staying on track for tomorrow. These solutions include:

• One Dollar Buyout and Fair Market Value Lease: Structures that offer a lease to own or end-of-term flexibility to return/upgrade. These include lease terms ranging from 24 to 60 months with competitive, below market interest rates.
• CDMO and CRO Services Financing*: Large-scale development contracts can be essential—but expensive. This option extends payment terms so you can advance critical milestones without compromising liquidity.
• Development Stage Biotech Program: Gain access to essential equipment through a customized solution built around your business objectives. Ideal for startups and early-stage innovators.
• Master Lease Line of Credit: Get the technology you need when you need it. This scalable line of credit allows you to grow at your own pace, with built-in flexibility to match evolving R&D demands.
• Equipment Technology Refresh Program: Science moves fast. This program keeps your lab up to date with current technologies without requiring full capital investment by enabling equipment upgrade to protect against technology obsolescence.
• Payment Deferral Options: Acquire the equipment you need today and defer payment up to 180 days. This is a strategic option for teams aligning purchases with grants, investments, or new budget cycles. Conserve cash today while keeping research programs on track through customized deferral arrangements.

> Explore No Interest Financing options

What are the benefits of using a financial solution?

There are benefits to utilizing a financial solution to help achieve your scientific goals. These solutions can help you:

• Bridge the gap to your next milestone or investment funding
• Extend your runway by preserving your cash & liquidity
• Overcome budgetary constraints and freeze on capital spending
• Mitigate risk and remove financial barriers so you can focus on your success
• Remain competitive with flexible solutions for obtaining up-to-date technology

Let us help extend your financial reach so you can amplify the impact of your science.

Explore case studies

• How Biotech Startups Can Stretch Funding and Still Scale
• Mastering Long-Term Innovation with Master Lease Agreements
• How One Pharmaceutical Company Optimized Funding with an Extended Terms Agreement
• Smart Leasing Strategies for Growth Phase Companies
• Overview: Which financial solution is right for you?

Learn more about flexible financing solutions available to help you stay current, competitive, and move forward with confidence.

Thermo Fisher Financial Solutions is committed to ensuring that science continues, even in uncertain times. We’re not just providing financing—we’re providing momentum.

> Explore Thermo Fisher Financial Solutions

References

1. Senior, Melanie. “Biotech Financing: Divide and Reset.” Nature Biotechnology, vol. 43, 2025, pp. 1028–1034, https://doi.org/10.1038/s41587-025-02723-8

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All offerings and solutions are subject to credit approval. Determination of eligibility is at the sole discretion of the Thermo Fisher Financial Solutions credit committee. Financing is subject to standard contract terms and conditions. Offerings may vary and are subject to change without notice.

*This program is available only to customers in the United States, excluding Puerto Rico, for clinical development, analytical, peri and post-approval, CDMO, or clinical supply chain services. Interest rates and offerings may vary. Not all applicants may qualify. Program offerings are subject to change without notice. Other restrictions may apply.