By Shannon Day, Senior Grants Development Consultant
With each new presidential administration comes changes to federal grants. While the overarching reason for a grant program does not change, we often see changes to priority areas and allowable and unallowable projects. This is nothing new.
2025 is particularly challenging. The newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has caused significant delays by adding a review step for every grant's Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). Grants are being flagged for mentioning words and phrases like "community," "DEI," "LGBTQI," and "women," and substantial portions of the NOFOs are being completely rewritten.
Additionally, new requirements mandate that grant recipients cooperate with immigration enforcement. This has led to reduced or eliminated funding for "sanctuary" jurisdictions and legal challenges that have left many criminal justice and first-responder agencies in a bind. Some counties have even gone as far as to adopt "no federal grants" policies.
With federal funds delayed or tied up in litigation, agencies that rely on them must be flexible and consider alternative funding sources. Here are some options to explore:
State-Level Grants
Like the federal government, each state has its own priorities, which can change with a new administration. While some states may prioritize public safety, others may focus on education. Staying informed is key.
- Pay attention to the budget process and engage with your representatives to make sure your voice is heard.
- Find administering agencies. A great starting point is to find the state agencies that administer federal pass-through funds from the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), such as the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) or the State Homeland Security Program (SHSP). These agencies often manage state-funded grants as well.
- Widen your search. Do not limit your search to public safety or homeland security departments. Many different agencies, including those for transportation, commerce, environmental protection, fire services, attorneys general, or state supreme courts, may offer relevant funding.
Foundation Grants
Foundation funding can come from corporate, family, or community foundations. While all grant programs aim for community improvement, foundations truly embody this concept.
- Start with your community foundation. They are an excellent resource and may fund initiatives for first responders. Give them a call and talk about your needs.
- Look for regional or national foundations. Several foundations focus on public safety. You can also explore corporate giving arms of companies like railroads, big-box stores, restaurants, or power companies.
The current delays in federal funding and potential legal battles require patience. Instead of shutting down, now is the time to get creative and explore other options to secure the funding you need.