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.

This quote is attributed to Pete Epanchin, global partnerships director for SERVIR. In conversation with The Aid Report, he mentioned that although philanthropic funding does not match former U.S. government levels, it has allowed the organization to diversify its funding base and reduce dependency on single donors. Support now includes philanthropic funding, institutional contributions from partner organizations, and emerging project-specific opportunities.

The shift has also meant changes to the network’s governance. For example, regional hubs now participate as equal members of SERVIR's leadership through a Steering Committee composed of hub representatives and the Global Secretariat, with authority more evenly distributed. Whereas strategy was once heavily influenced by U.S. government management, platforms are now being shaped directly by regional hub priorities, expertise, and experience, according to Epanchin.

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