UNM's pockets will be a little deeper this coming year thanks to a successful collaboration with a Washington, D.C. based lobbying firm that has garnered the University more than $12 million in federal money.
Judy Jones, UNM vice president for institutional advancement, said UNM hired The National Group in February 2002 at a cost of $10,500 a month in hopes that the firm would identify what financial resources the University should pursue.
"We previously worked with our congressional delegation directly in pursuing federal funds, but we lacked the knowledge to see the kind of success that would allow UNM to see its future goals to fruition," Jones said. "Our relationship with The National Group is ideal because not only are they there to monitor the process on a day-to-day basis, but they have a broader view of the federal situation and are able to suggest avenues for the University to pursue in the future."
Jones said that as of June 30, Congress has earmarked more than $12 million to fund eight UNM programs this year, a major increase from last year's total of $2 million.
Jones said the increase is a direct result of the firm's efforts and numerous grant proposals submitted by UNM officials.
She added that a portion of that money will be allocated for several projects that UNM collaborates on with other universities.
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According to its Web site, The National Group is a group of government relations professionals who secure appropriations from Congress for specific projects of universities and colleges, hospitals and medical centers, museums and other nonprofit institutions.
After researching its client's financial status, the firm's lobbyists make recommendations on which funding is available, what strategies to take and the procedures to follow in pursuit of the federal funding.
UNM's contract with the firm is projected to have cost more than $305,000 by the end of June 2003.
Representatives from The National Group declined to outline the expenditures of their monthly fee, which includes $500 for undetermined expenses.
Terry Yates, vice provost for research, said that after a nationwide search, it was the small size of the firm and its success with other universities and several Fortune 500 companies such as Delta Airlines and Kodak that made it appealing to UNM.
"The National Group has brought a level of expertise that has allowed us to search for funding in areas we had never before ventured," Yates said. "The funding we have gained as a result of their efforts will be beneficial to the entire UNM family."
Yates said the firm's experience seeking funds for medical and disease-related research was another attractive quality of the firm.
"We couldn't be happier with the results that have come from this partnership," Yates said. "This funding will provide resources for many University programs and will allow us to improve the University to the level we all want it to be."
