What Grants Will Face Scrutiny in the Coming Months?

Government Spending Under Review

With a renewed focus on cutting wasteful and inefficient spending, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is set to scrutinize a range of federal grant programs. From social services to environmental initiatives, certain grants may be re-evaluated to determine their effectiveness, necessity, and alignment with national priorities.

Here’s a breakdown of the key grant categories likely to face increased oversight in the coming months:

1. Social and Health Program Grants

Funding for social and healthcare initiatives, particularly those tied to controversial or politically charged topics, could be under the microscope. Some of the key programs include:

• Title X Family Planning Program – Supports family planning services, including funding for organizations like Planned Parenthood.

• SAMHSA Grants – Covers community mental health services and substance abuse prevention through block grants.

Given concerns about government overreach and spending efficiency, these grants may face reductions or stricter eligibility requirements.

2. Environmental and Energy Grants

Programs related to climate change and clean energy initiatives are expected to be closely examined, particularly those aligned with policies seen as politically driven. Key grants in this category include:

• Clean Water State Revolving Fund (EPA) – Provides funding for water infrastructure projects.

• Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) Grants (EPA) – Funds projects to reduce diesel emissions and improve air quality.

• Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program (DOE) – Funds local projects aimed at reducing energy use.

• Solar Energy Technologies Office Grants (DOE) – Supports research in solar energy development.

Programs associated with the “Green New Deal” and social equity-driven environmental initiatives may be at the highest risk for funding cuts.

3. Education and Research Grants

Education and research funding, particularly grants operating under expired authorizations, could be re-evaluated. The focus will likely be on programs perceived as redundant or misaligned with national priorities. These include:

• Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies (Dept. of Education) – Provides funding for schools with high numbers of low-income students.

• Strengthening Institutions Program (Title III, Part A, Dept. of Education) – Grants aimed at improving the quality of higher education institutions.

• R01 Research Project Grant Program (NIH) – A major funding source for medical and scientific research.

With government priorities shifting toward economic recovery and infrastructure, research programs not tied to immediate national needs could see budget reductions.

4. General Government Operations Grants

Federal agencies use grants to modernize infrastructure and improve efficiency, but some programs may be scrutinized for excessive spending or redundancy. Examples include:

• Technology Modernization Fund (GSA) – Provides IT funding for federal agencies.

• FEMA State Homeland Security Program (DHS) – Supports state and local preparedness efforts for terrorist threats and emergencies.

Expect greater oversight on grants that fund government staffing, operational costs, and IT modernization efforts to ensure they align with cost-cutting measures.

What’s Next?

The scrutiny of these grants reflects a broader push to reduce government spending while redirecting funds to higher-priority areas. However, final decisions will depend on legislative actions, public opinion, and ongoing policy shifts. Organizations relying on these grants should prepare for potential funding cuts, new compliance requirements, or shifts in eligibility criteria.

For businesses and nonprofits seeking grants, staying informed and adapting to policy changes will be crucial in securing funding in this evolving landscape.