diff --git a/cmd/cognitive-worker/main.go b/cmd/cognitive-worker/main.go
index 0f8fce0..b9fa467 100644
--- a/cmd/cognitive-worker/main.go
+++ b/cmd/cognitive-worker/main.go
@@ -220,7 +220,9 @@ func durationEnv(name string, fallback time.Duration) time.Duration {
 
 func refreshProviderDiscoveries(resolver bindingResolver, service discoveryService) {
 	for name := range service.providers {
-		ctx, cancel := context.WithTimeout(context.Background(), 8*time.Second)
+		// Keep startup discovery bounded while allowing the authenticated local
+		// gateway enough time to enumerate a loaded MEDIUM model.
+		ctx, cancel := context.WithTimeout(context.Background(), 15*time.Second)
 		registration, ok := service.providers[name]
 		if !ok || registration.Discovery == nil {
 			cancel()