Record $500 Million in Education Grants Announced
The U.S. Department of Education has unveiled a record $500 million for its Charter Schools Program. This funding will support new and expanding charter schools, state-level implementation, facilities improvements, and credit enhancement initiatives. According to the Department, the grants aim to improve educational outcomes and access in underserved communities across the country.
Infrastructure and Clean Energy Projects Face Federal Funding Freezes
The ongoing government shutdown has disrupted billions in approved federal funding. Reports indicate that as much as $18 billion for New York infrastructure and $8 billion for clean energy projects nationwide have been put on hold. Nevertheless, some states continue moving forward with previously secured funds-such as Connecticut’s $52.5 million EV charging network expansion, funded under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program.
Homeland Security and Justice Grants Cut
Federal grant reductions are also hitting local governments. The D.C. region faces over $40 million in homeland security funding cuts, prompting concerns about emergency response readiness. In parallel, the Department of Justice has reduced $811 million in grants spanning law enforcement, victim services, and community safety programs.
Grant Oversight and the "Rescissions Act of 2025"
The Rescissions Act of 2025 rescinded approximately $7.9 billion in foreign aid and another $1.1 billion from public broadcasting. The White House also issued a new Executive Order on "Improving Oversight of Federal Grantmaking", tightening reporting and compliance requirements across agencies. These moves signal a broader shift toward centralized oversight and efficiency in how federal grant dollars are distributed.
Higher Education Funding and the "Compact for Academic Excellence"
The administration’s Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education is reshaping how universities access federal grants. Institutions agreeing to specific policy reforms are prioritized for funding, while others face restrictions. Notably, Harvard University recently regained access to a majority of its frozen federal grants following a court ruling, marking one of the first reversals under the new policy environment. Meanwhile, community colleges are reporting cuts to discretionary grants supporting student services and workforce development.
Impact of the Federal Shutdown on Grant Operations
With many agencies operating on limited staff, Grants.gov remains online but delayed. The Department of Education, EPA, and NIH are processing only essential transactions. The shutdown has also forced the Smithsonian museums and National Zoo to close, with staff furloughed. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grant cycles are also facing uncertainty until appropriations are restored.
Regional Economic Development Grants Continue
Despite the shutdown, the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) has announced over 107 new investments totaling $77.4 million, matched by local contributions of $44.4 million. These projects target economic recovery, disaster resilience, and regional growth initiatives across multiple states.
Conclusion
As the federal shutdown continues, agencies, states, and institutions are balancing delays in new disbursements with cautious optimism about upcoming funding rounds. For organizations seeking federal support, staying informed about shifting eligibility criteria, oversight rules, and resumed grant timelines will be key to maintaining access to future opportunities.
Stay tuned to USGrants.org for the latest verified government grant updates, funding opportunities, and policy developments.
In case you've missed those:
Federal Shutdown Sparks Widespread Grant Delays: Whats Happening and What Grant-Seeking Entities Must Know
Learn how the October 2025 U.S. federal government shutdown is delaying grant awards, reimbursements, and agency operations nationwide — and what organizations can do to prepare. [read more]
October 2025 U.S. Federal Grants Update: Shutdown Delays, Funding Reversals, and New Awards
Stay updated on the latest U.S. government grant news - shutdown delays, funding reversals, and new infrastructure awards announced in October 2025. [read more]
