USFCR Blog

An overview of the celebrations of Disability Pride Month and information on Grants available towards ensuring equal opportunities for all.

"A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles." - Christopher Reeve

The month of July is celebrated as Disability Pride Month, marking the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). With aims to uplift the experiences and dreams of those living with disabilities, celebrations seek to encourage love, joy and fair treatment year-round. Both nonprofit and for-profit organizations have stepped up to fill gaps in service for the Disabled community, often in partnership with state or federal funding through grants.

[…] Disasters come in all shapes and sizes—fires, hurricanes, economic downturns, droughts, virus outbreaks, terrorism. We can’t predict how long the impact will be felt but we can do much to be ready. […] Disasters stretch the limits of community systems. Communities that recover best are […] those that have invested in social fabric, inter-connectedness, physical and emotional infrastructure, and those that have woven bonds between sectors and between citizens.

Jennifer Cole, Metro Nashville
Arts Commission¹

Given the uncertainty of disasters, humanities organizations must have precautionary preparedness plans to ensure that their valuable works are accounted for. Some risk strategies to develop include:

• Relocating pieces to more structurally-sound areas;
• Conducting comprehensive structural assessments of the building to determine areas of vulnerability;
• Training staff to know the plan of action when disasters occur;
• Prioritizing pieces of most importance; and
• Ensuring that individuals are not put in harm's way in order to protect their work.²

Did you know that according to a recent study, businesses lose millions each year due to preventable mistakes in federal contracting? Navigating the federal contracting process can be complex, especially for newcomers. By understanding these common pitfalls, you can avoid costly missteps and significantly increase your chances of winning contracts. This article is especially beneficial for small businesses new to federal contracting.

US military bases overseas are crucial for global security and international operations. These bases require significant construction, maintenance, and modernization efforts, presenting lucrative opportunities for federal contractors. Additionally, the presence of these bases can have positive impacts on local communities, including economic benefits and infrastructure development. This article explores the construction efforts, contractor opportunities, and community benefits of several key US military bases overseas.

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.

In the dynamic world of federal contracting, understanding where your business fits can be the key to unlocking opportunities. From groundbreaking technologies to essential public services, certain sectors stand out for their potential. This series, "Specialized Opportunities in Government Contracting," is crafted to highlight these areas, offering insights and actionable strategies for businesses eager to navigate the federal marketplace. Dive into each sector with us as we provide the tools you need to identify, pursue, and secure government contracts that align with your expertise.

In times of crisis, timely and effective disaster relief services are essential. With natural disasters becoming more frequent and severe, the federal government is intensifying preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. This opens opportunities for businesses adept at navigating disaster relief. This guide highlights the crucial role of these services in federal contracting and how your business can become a key player in supporting government efforts to aid communities during their most vulnerable moments.