Grants and cooperative agreements are important financial tools that federal personnel can utilize to advance their organization’s mission. In this article, we will provide an introduction to these funding mechanisms, including the key differences between grants and cooperative agreements, and the basic framework for managing them.

Grants and cooperative agreements are legal mechanisms that allow federal agencies to transfer funds to non-federal entities, such as universities, non-profits, and state and local governments. These funds are typically used to support research, development, community projects, and other activities that align with the agency’s goals.

While both grants and cooperative agreements are used to achieve similar outcomes, there are some key differences between the two. Grants are typically used to support research and development projects that are initiated by the grantee. The grantee is expected to have a high degree of independence in implementing the project, and the agency provides oversight and guidance as necessary. In contrast, cooperative agreements are used when the agency and the grantee will work closely together to achieve a specific outcome. The agency has a higher degree of involvement in the project, and the grantee is expected to collaborate closely with the agency throughout the project lifecycle.

When managing grants and cooperative agreements, it is important to follow the established guidelines and regulations to ensure compliance with federal laws and regulations. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-110 provides the basic framework for managing federal grants and cooperative agreements. This document outlines the responsibilities of both the grantee and the agency, including financial management, reporting, audits, and record-keeping.

To successfully manage grants and cooperative agreements, federal personnel should be familiar with the applicable regulations and seek out training and resources as needed. The Grants Management Training Program (GMTP) is a valuable resource that provides a comprehensive overview of the grant and cooperative agreement management process. Additionally, the Federal Grants Forum offers a variety of resources and training opportunities for federal personnel.

In conclusion, grants and cooperative agreements are important financial tools that allow federal agencies to achieve their goals and advance their mission. Understanding the key differences between grants and cooperative agreements, and following the established guidelines and regulations, is essential to successfully managing these funding mechanisms. With the right training and resources, federal personnel can utilize grants and cooperative agreements to make a positive impact on their organization and the communities they serve.