ICYMI: Must-Know Grant Trends for 2025 from Lucy Morgan
Published 4 months ago • 2 min read
Hi Reader,
In a time when uncertainty is the norm and federal grant priorities shift week to week, hearing directly from seasoned professionals can make all the difference.
That’s why we’re excited to share a new interview series from earlier this year featuring MyFedTrainer founder Lucy Morgan in conversation with principal Rachel Werner. Together, they break down the biggest trends, risks, and changes shaping the federal grants landscape in 2025.
Whether you’re navigating shifting state requirements, increased audit scrutiny, or shrinking budgets, this candid series offers strategic insights from two compliance pros who’ve seen it all.
Start with Episode 1:Understanding the Federal Grant Landscape
What’s different for grant professionals in 2025 under the new administration
How to prepare if your organization is in a “high-risk” area
Ways to anticipate change—and rally together through it
Why mission alignment still matters (even amid policy shifts)
Each clip is short, sharp, and made for busy grant professionals like you. Forward to your team or bookmark for later.
Federal Grant News to Watch
Earmarks are out—at least for now
The latest approved budget left out Congressionally Directed Spending (aka earmarks). That means separate applications for infrastructure, research, and equipment purchases may not be available this cycle. Agencies will likely shift strategies, so keep an eye on updated FOAs and strategic plans.
Grant priorities are diverging by state
State interpretations of federal guidance are creating new inconsistencies in how programs are applied and evaluated. Your eligibility—and your compliance plan—may vary based on where you operate.
Audits are evolving, fast
At the NGMA Conference, the OIG Plenary warned that AI tools are now helping agencies prioritize complaints and red flags. That means faster reviews—and less time to prepare if you're under the microscope.
Grant Management FAQ of the Week
What should I do if my federal award is terminated unexpectedly?
Review your award terms for legal standing
Notify subrecipients and issue stop work orders
Document all actions and communications for reimbursement
Separate terminated grant codes in your accounting system
Even if a termination happens late on a Friday, don’t panic—there are steps you can take to protect your organization and recover eligible costs.
If your organization is located in a state with strong ideological leanings, review your grant language and application strategies for alignment with both federal and state priorities. What’s allowed at the federal level may face resistance at the state level—and vice versa.
ICYMI: Webinar Available On-Demand
Last week’s webinar on Top 10 Written Policies to Sustain Federal Grant Funding is now available to watch anytime on-demand.
As the federal grant landscape continues to evolve, staying informed—and connected—has never been more important.
Explore the full interview series, catch up on our March webinar, and don’t hesitate to reach out at Support@MyFedTrainer.com if you have questions or need help navigating the latest changes.
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