Hi Reader,

If you’ve logged onto Grants.gov recently and thought, "Where did all the grants go?"—you’re not alone.

Federal grant opportunities are slowing down, but that doesn’t mean funding has disappeared. It just means you have to dig deeper.

This week, we’re helping you sharpen your skills as a grant detective—tracking agency priorities, budgets, and early warning signs so you don’t miss hidden opportunities.

It’s Time to Become a Grant Detective 🔎

Grants.gov may be slow, but federal agencies are still shifting funding behind the scenes. Here’s how to stay ahead:

✔️ Monitor Agency Strategic Plans: Many agencies update their strategic plans after budgets pass. If plans aren’t posted yet, bookmark key agency pages and check weekly.

✔️ Track Executive Orders and Agency Memos: Memos from Cabinet secretaries and new executive orders can signal priority shifts—long before formal FOAs are published.

✔️ Watch for Planned RIFs (Reductions in Force): Layoffs or restructuring at federal agencies often mean major program changes. Follow agency press releases, budget hearings, and insider news.

✔️ Review House Committee Documents: The House Appropriations Committee reports offer early clues about which programs will grow, and which may disappear.

Staying informed now gives you a significant advantage when new opportunities finally hit the public portals.

Federal Grant News Highlights

March 14 Budget Approval Fallout: Although the federal budget passed, many agencies are still adjusting program funding priorities. Expect delays in new FOAs, especially for climate, DEIA, and international programs.

Strategic Plan Gaps: Several major agencies (including HUD and DOT) have not yet updated their 2025–2029 strategic plans, making it harder to predict upcoming grant opportunities.

Hiring Freezes and Cuts: Reports of hiring freezes and workforce reductions at agencies like EPA and Department of Education could signal changes in upcoming funding rounds.

FAQ of the Week 💬

Q: Where can I find early clues about federal grant opportunities if Grants.gov has few listings?

Check agency homepages and subscribe to their funding alerts.
Follow agency-specific LinkedIn pages and press rooms for updates.
Monitor House Appropriations reports and proposed budgets for hints about shifting priorities.

Go One Step Further— Diversify Your Strategy

While tracking federal grants is critical, diversifying your funding sources can strengthen your organization’s resilience.

Now is a good time to start researching private and foundation grants that align with your mission, so you’re prepared no matter where federal priorities land.

Don’t wait for the FOA. Identify your top three target agencies now and set up Google Alerts or RSS feeds for key terms like “grant funding,” “program update,” or “budget priorities” tied to those agencies.

Upcoming Training Opportunities 📅

May 6–8, 2025
Quarterly Live Course: Grant Management Boot Camp
Three days of expert-led instruction, hands-on tools, and live Q&A to build a rock-solid grant compliance foundation.
🔗 Register Here »
May 22, 2025
May Compliance Webinar: What Should You Do if Your Award Is Terminated?
With more organizations facing grant terminations and funding cuts, this live session tackles one of the most urgent questions in grant management today. Learn the critical steps to take after a termination—and how to protect your funding and programs.
🔗 Register Here »

Stay #GrantReady with MyFedTrainer!

We’ll keep tracking these trends and sharing practical tips to help you stay informed, compliant, and competitive in 2025’s changing funding environment.

Need help finding more resources or training? Reach out anytime at Support@MyFedTrainer.com.

Guiding your grant journey,