The Antimicrobials Working Group (AWG) was founded in 2012 with the vision of utilizing collective power to improve the regulatory, investment, and commercial environment for emerging antimicrobials and diagnostics companies. Today, The Antimicrobials Working Group is comprised of thirteen emerging antimicrobial companies. In seven years of work, we have narrowed our focus onto enhanced reimbursement, expedited approval pathways, and sound stewardship measures. The emergence of multi-drug resistant bacteria presents a global public health crisis that demands new antimicrobials and diagnostic devices, yet the number of companies in the United States investing in research and development is dwindling due to lack of attractiveness for investment in the sector. AWG engages with key Congressional offices to help create policies and legislation that spur the development of life-saving antimicrobials and diagnostic devices through appropriate regulatory flexibility; fair and adequate reimbursement policies; and establishing a favorable investment climate to develop antimicrobial therapies and diagnostic devices.