Navigating the Shifting Landscape of Federal Grants: How to Stay Competitive and Strategic

The slowdown in federal grants is real, and it’s having a tangible impact. More and more organizations are stepping back from pursuing these opportunities, driven by uncertainty surrounding executive orders and the ripple effect they’re having on those who serve the poor, marginalized, underserved, and underresourced communities.

For some, the fear is justified, rooted in real and immediate risks. For others, it’s anticipatory—a reaction to perceived threats that haven’t fully materialized yet. No matter where your organization stands, these moments call for clarity, courage, and strategic decision-making based on your unique risk tolerance.

From our perspective—and at our firm—we’re not backing down. We’re here to win. Winning is in our DNA. That means we aggressively pursue federal grants whenever our clients are eligible and the mission alignment is clear. In today’s climate, this isn’t optional—it’s essential.

At the same time, many organizations are pivoting away from federal grants in favor of foundation funding. This shift, however, is making the foundation grant space increasingly competitive. The pot may grow as funders respond to the changing environment, but that growth won’t happen overnight. If your organization needs funding now, not in a year or two, you must act with urgency and purpose.

So, what can you do today to boost your competitiveness and secure more funding, whether from foundations or federal grants?

1. Get Your House in Order

Now is the perfect time to tackle the foundational work that often gets pushed aside. Refine your strategy, revisit your goals, and strengthen your internal alignment. This is the deep, thoughtful work that sets successful organizations apart.

As someone who regularly serves on federal grant review panels and foundation funding committees, I can immediately recognize which organizations have done the groundwork. They’re the ones who earn top scores and stand out in crowded applicant pools.

2. Federal Grants are Shifting- Train Your Team

If things have slowed down, use that time wisely—invest in your people. Whether it's basic grant training or more advanced workshops, upskilling your team pays off. I’ve yet to see an organization regret investing in the right training. The grant-seeking environment has changed, and your team needs the tools and knowledge to stay competitive.

3. Supercharge Relationship-Building

At the heart of every funding decision is a relationship. Funders give to people, not just proposals. Yet too many organizations approach relationship-building with a “spray and pray” mentality. What works is a thoughtful, consistent strategy.

Over the past decade, we’ve used a proven relationship-building approach that continues to deliver results. It’s not about chance—it’s about intentional, strategic engagement.

The federal grants landscape is shifting, and no one knows exactly how long the turbulence will last. What we do know is that organizations that adapt, prepare, and lean into strategy will come out ahead. Equip your team, refine your approach, and stay ready to pursue every opportunity that aligns with your mission—because the win is still out there.

Need help? Schedule a complimentary consultation today.

About Shavonn V. Richardson, MBA, GPC

Shavonn is the Founder and CEO of Think and Ink Grant Consulting. As a former nonprofit leader and grantmaker, Shavonn has over 20 years of experience delivering practical, real-world advice to nonprofit leaders nationwide.  Shavonn earned the GPC (Grant Professional Certified) credential from the Grant Professionals Certification Institute in 2020 and is a Grant Professionals Association Approved Trainer. Shavonn also serves as President of the Grant Professionals Association.

Think and Ink Grant Consulting®

Think and Ink Grant Consulting® helps large nonprofit organizations with budgets of $3 million or more, institutions of higher education, and municipalities increase their grant funding. Learn more at www.thinkandinkgrants.com.

Get.Grants.Better.®

As a subsidiary of Think and Ink Grant Consulting ®, Get.Grants.Better.® provides discounted grant writing training to small nonprofits and small businesses just starting their grant writing journey. This D.I.Y. and cost-effective grant writing solution is designed to meet the unique needs (and budgets) of those looking to gain the necessary skills to write and win grants. Learn more at https://getgrantsbetter.thinkandinkgrants.com/