Definition of "viability"

Ordinarily these altered organs are sterile, but in some instances a very small quantity of seed is produced, and when testing their viability I succeeded in raising a few plants from them.

1904, Hugo DeVries, Species and Varieties, Their Origin by Mutation

In making its grants the Endowment will increase its emphasis on techniques which stimulate support for the humanities from non-Federal sources, in order to reinforce our tradition of private philanthropy in this field, and to insure and expand the financial, viability of our cultural institutions and life.

1980, Jimmy Carter, State of the Union Address