
If your federal government grant may be terminated, don’t panic! Here’s what you can do:
1. Ask for clarification: Request written confirmation of the proposed termination and any reasons or findings that led to it.
2. Review the terms: Re-examine the grant agreement and applicable laws to identify potential issues that might have been misinterpreted or misunderstood by the agency.
3. Seek help: Consult with an experienced grants management professional, a lawyer, or your institution’s research administration office for guidance on how to proceed.
4. Gather data: Collect any supporting evidence you may have for the work you’ve done so far and be prepared to discuss these accomplishments at every opportunity.
5. Offer solutions: Try to address potential concerns by offering alternative strategies or modifications that could resolve issues and keep your grant active.
6. Rebut any misstatements: When communication from an agency has made too many misstatements, simply say that and maybe refute just a sample of them as in “Your email contains many statements that we disagree with and are not consistent with our recollection of what happened.”
7. Inquire about the appeals process: Request written information on the appeals process and make sure you understand any time limits or deadlines.
8. Keep your options open: Don’t be afraid to explore other funding opportunities, as termination doesn’t necessarily mean that your research is over.
9. Stay informed: Keep track of changes in the grant process by following relevant news outlets and engaging with professional associations for support and guidance.
10. Stay vigilant: Be aware of any conflicts of interest or potential biases within the agency and be prepared to escalate your issue if necessary.
Remember, staying calm, seeking help, and addressing concerns promptly are crucial when faced with a grant termination threat.
By doing so, you’ll have done everything possible to save your grant, even when all hope seems lost.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/brucelee/2025/04/06/what-to-do-if-your-federal-government-grant-may-be-terminated/