Additional Context: The Spatial Informatics Group—Natural Assets Laboratory, or SIG-NAL, manages the SERVIR Global Network. Previously, the SERVIR project was managed and funded by USAID and NASA. The alliance is composed of experts, institutions, and communities using geospatial technology and Earth observation to provide practical solutions for environmental and development challenges. Although the U.S. grants and agreements that helped establish and fund the network have ended, regional partners remain engaged. The network has since established a new governance structure as it rebuilds core capabilities, while emphasizing locally-led approaches.

Since the funding cuts, the network has adapted its approach to better use limited resources. According to a representative from the organization, SERVIR was already evolving toward greater use of machine learning, large language models, and GeoAI tools. Following the stop-work orders, these technologies have also become an important way to rebuild capabilities more efficiently and consistently across the network. The shift is driven by both technological opportunity and the need to rebuild following the stop work orders.

Devex Researcher Note: According to a list of terminated grants from March 2025, the combined total estimated cost of canceled SERVIR awards across their fully planned lifecycle was $73.3 million. Around $26.2 million remained unobligated at the time of grant terminations.

Source: SIG-NAL/SERVIR