Nonprofits Nationwide Sign on to Letter Supporting the Streamlining Federal Grants Act

More than 800 nonprofits have joined this sign-on letter in support of the Streamlining Federal Grants Act (S. 2286/H.R. 5934). This legislation addresses critical issues in managing federal grant programs and would help enhance the efficiency and performance of federal grants and cooperative agreements.

The Streamlining Federal Grants Act first gained momentum when introduced by Sens. Gary Peters (D-Mich.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), and John Cornyn (R-Texas) on July 17. At the time, leaders from across the social sector shared statements of support for the bill in a press release from the U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs.

Now, 827 nonprofits have rallied behind the legislation recognizing the lasting impact it could have on the sector and the communities served. Specifically, the Act focuses on several fundamental principles that will enhance this grant process for all:

• Coordination and Standardization: The Act acknowledges the need for better coordination and standardization in federal grant administration. The lack of uniform rules and forms across federal agencies creates unnecessary complexity and inefficiency.
• Streamlined Grant Application Processes: The Act aims to simplify the grant application process, reducing redundant requirements and paperwork and making it easier for nonprofit organizations and communities to access federal grants.
• Improving Transparency: Standardizing Notices of Funding Opportunities and implementing common data standards enhances transparency and ensures potential grant applicants can quickly identify and apply for relevant opportunities.
• Equitable Access: The Act specifically addresses the need to provide underserved communities and organizations with greater access to federal grants. This focus on equity aligns with our commitment to serving all members of our society, regardless of their size, location, or resources.
• Support for Workforce Development: The Act recognizes the importance of a well-trained workforce and the need for agencies to provide training and assistance to potential grant applicants. This support is crucial for the success of nonprofits and communities alike.

Social Current has been active in advocating for federal grant reform and educating our network about the issue. Social Current’s Senior Director of Government Affairs Blair Abelle-Kiser commented on the importance this act would have on the sector:

“I believe the Streamlining Federal Grants Act is a transformative step toward a more efficient and equitable grant administration system. By addressing critical issues and advocating for coordination, transparency, and equitable access, this legislation has the potential to empower nonprofits and uplift underserved communities across the nation.”

Social Current is monitoring the progress of the Streamlining Federal Grant Act of 2023 and will share updates in our Policy and Advocacy Radar newsletter. Subscribe online.

Learn More & Take Action

• Review highlights of the legislation’s provisions that benefit charitable nonprofits in this one-pager from Social Current and the National Council of Nonprofits.
• View Social Current’s on-demand Policy Briefing about the issue.
• View the National Council of Nonprofits recorded webinar, The Urgency of Government Grants Reform for Your Nonprofits.
• Read the op-ed, “Government contract reform is a must for social sector nonprofits,” authored by Social Current President and CEO Jody Levison-Johnson in New York Nonprofit Media in February 2023.
• See highlight from Social Current’s Hill Day during our SPARK 2023 conference. Participants spent the day advocating for support of this legislation with their members of Congress.
• Reach out to Blair Abelle-Kiser, senior director of government affairs at Social Current, with any questions.