Federal funding is going through a shake-up.
If your school, nonprofit, municipality, or law enforcement agency relies on grants, you’ve likely noticed changes—delays in award announcements, canceled programs, or shifting requirements. These aren’t just typical budget hiccups. They’re part of a larger reset triggered by the new presidential administration’s priorities.
Here’s what’s happening—and what you can do to stay ahead.
What Changed?
In early 2025, the administration issued Memorandum M-25-13, calling for a sweeping review of more than 2,600 federal funding programs. This temporarily paused many grants so agencies could assess whether programs aligned with new policy goals like:
National security
Energy independence
Eliminating DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives
Reducing federal support for climate and green energy programs
Although a follow-up memo (M-25-14) lifted the freeze, the review process continues—and so does the uncertainty.
Real-World Impacts
Several programs have already been cut, paused, or significantly altered:
The State Digital Equity Capacity Grants were terminated midstream—even after states launched competitions and applicants submitted proposals.
The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program rescinded awards in multiple states.
Climate and pollution-reduction grants from the EPA were rolled back as part of a broader reconciliation bill.
Expect changes to other programs in education, law enforcement, and infrastructure.
What It Means for Grant Seekers
If you’re applying for—or managing—federal grants, keep these realities in mind:
Some awarded grants are safe (for now) – but stay in touch with your program officer. Ongoing legal challenges could still impact disbursements.
New grants may be delayed or canceled. Even posted opportunities could be pulled or revised.
Programs with broad discretion are most vulnerable. Competitive grants not tied to statute may face bigger cuts.
Expect tighter guidelines and new priorities. Many agencies are updating applications to reflect administrative goals.
What You Can Do Now
Audit Your Grant Strategy. What are your current and upcoming targets? Are they at risk? Build a backup plan.
Start Early. Some programs may still run, but with tighter timelines and new rules. Don’t wait.
Think Local. State, municipal, and private grants may offer steadier opportunities right now.
Stay Agile. If an opportunity changes direction, be ready to realign your narrative and approach.
Final Thoughts: Be Proactive, Not Paralyzed
Change is hard—but it’s not the end of funding. Federal grants remain one of the strongest ways to fuel growth, innovation, and impact in your community. But navigating this environment requires more planning, more strategy, and the right guidance.
That’s where we come in.
At GrantWave, we help organizations like yours understand the landscape, adjust quickly, and keep critical funding on track. Book a free consultation or request a Grant Readiness Audit to get started.
GrantWave Consulting
Funding. Facilities. Future-Ready.
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