Imagine a nonprofit broadening its impact by serving more families in need or a small business advancing innovative solutions—all made possible through federal funding. Federal grants can turn these visions into reality, offering substantial financial support without the need for repayment. But what exactly are federal grants, and how can your organization or business tap into this powerful resource?
Cyberattacks are a constant threat in today's world, from stealing personal information to breaching large information systems. In response, the National Science Foundation (NSF) has created the Secure and Trustworthy Cyberspace (SaTC) program, which aims to advance cybersecurity and privacy through research and education.
The United States’ tradition of higher education is rooted in the earliest days of North American settlement. Harvard College, founded in 1636 by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, was followed by numerous state and private colleges that comprised the educational system of colonial America. These institutions were funded through various sources, including state taxes and donations, and primarily trained ministers through religious instruction. Over the 18th and 19th centuries, and as the United States began to take shape as a nation, the landscape of higher education evolved to meet the growing demands of professional training. During this period, the states and the federal government began taking a more defined role in the management and development of higher education.
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) is offering an exciting opportunity for organizations involved in supporting disadvantaged youth. With approximately $99 million available, DOL expects to fund 75 projects nationwide to help young people gain the skills, education, and support they need to thrive and contribute to their communities.
Colin Powell, the first African American appointed as the U.S. Secretary of State, put it best when he said, "Have a vision. Be demanding.
August 1st marks the beginning of National Black Business Month, marking the importance of continuous support of Black-owned businesses. There are an estimated 161,031 Black or African-American-owned businesses with $183.3 billion in annual receipts, 1.4 million employees, and about $53.6 billion in annual payroll. About 45,015 (28%) of these businesses were in the Health Care and Social Assistance sector.
The Outreach and Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged and Veteran Farmers and Ranchers, also known as the 2501 Program, has recently been released with the goal of enhancing equal access and opportunities for the underserved by encouraging participation in USDA programs related to agriculture and forestry. Under this initiative, the USDA, in partnership with the OPPE, is expected to reward applicants with funding geared towards aiding underserved populations with the ownership and operation of farms and ranches. Funding will also be allocated to projects that aid in the development of underserved youth’s interest in agriculture through education and training.
Since formation, the United States has utilized grants to distribute resources amongst its various states and peoples. From farmers to industrialists, the federal government has pursued a policy of no-strings-attached funding for a variety of projects that serve the national interest. Because of this, grants have taken and will continue to take, many different and unique forms over the years to effectively influence the progression of national goals through for-profit and nonprofit entities. Follow along in this multi-part series, The History of Grants, as we explore some of the most effective and impactful programs that have helped build America, as well as contemporary examples of what we’re doing today to make change happen.
“Don’t be pushed by your problems. Be led by your dreams.”
– Ralph Waldo Emerson
Grant opportunities allow organizations to elevate their current programs so they can channel connections within their communities to provide assistance to their intended populations. However, searching through the plethora of federal, national and foundational databases to identify Funding Opportunity Announcements (FOAs), Request for Proposals (RFPs) or Notice of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs) can get tiring if you are unsure what to seek out.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Month
June marks the start of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month. PTSD is a debilitating illness that causes people to repeatedly relive a traumatic event, significantly reducing their quality of life.1,2 Approximately 70% of adults experience at least one traumatic event in their lifetime, and 20% of these individuals will develop PTSD.3 In total, roughly 13 million people in the United States have PTSD in a given year.3 Raising awareness and understanding of this condition is a crucial first step to improving the lives of those affected.
