Following the unexpected announcement of Novo Nordisk Foundation (NNF) to stop core funding for its Center for Protein Research (CPR) in Copenhagen after 2024, former members of CPR’s Scientific Advisory Board have published an article in EMBO reports to highlight the hidden risks of jointly funded, “mission-driven” projects. The authors – amongst them IBC2 director Ivan Đikić – highlight the importance of protecting funding for basic research to enable pioneering discoveries. They propose to establish standards for funding bodies to ensure transparency and consistency. Ultimately, the goal is to foster a vibrant basic research community for the benefit of society and future generations.