How research funding shapes academic outputs: Evidence from communication research paper characteristics and thematic trends in China

ABSTRACT Purpose To explore how different types of research funding affect research papers, with implications for optimizing funding policies and promoting sustainable research development. Design/methodology/approach We used social network analysis and citation analysis to compare the influence of funded and non-funded papers, as well as among different funding types. Multidimensional scaling and cohesive subgroup analysis revealed thematic differences. Findings Funded papers do not always show higher academic influence than non-funded ones, but multifunded papers perform better than single-funded ones. Papers funded by international institutions and HKMT have a greater impact on the international academic community. Funded papers emphasize innovation and interdisciplinarity; non-funded papers focus more on classical theory application. Research limitations This study used only the WoS Core Collection, potentially missing other funding sources. Practical implications The findings inform the refinement of funding policies and support strategies that encourage impactful and innovative research. Originality/value This study offers a multi-level empirical analysis of how funding shapes research influence and thematic trends.