Why It Matters
Using evidence and data without considering how they can be used to improve outcomes for residents in different circumstances can perpetuate or exacerbate disparities, despite our best intentions. Authentic engagement early on and throughout the grantmaking and implementation process helps ensure that grantees are well-positioned to design activities that will advance outcomes while also reducing inequities.
OMB Encourages Centering Community in Grantmaking
The 2024 Uniform Grants Guidance Revision from the White House Office of Management and Budget promotes centering community in two ways:
It calls on federal agencies to design programs with impacted communities and to extend eligibility to all potential applicants (See Section §200.202(b)). These mandates, together with the requirement to consider current data and evidence in designing programs, will help agencies build their programs around the real-life needs, challenges and opportunities of the people they intend to serve.
The guidance also requires federal agencies to encourage applicants to engage relevant communities in program design, where practicable (See Section § 200.202(a)(5)). In addition to agency engagement with communities, engagement by applicants can help ensure that funded projects reflect the priorities, needs and perspectives of the people and groups who will be directly affected.
To learn more, see RFA’s reference guide for implementing OMB’s 2024 Uniform Grants Guidance Revisions. The guide offers top takeaways and recommends specific steps federal agencies can take to support effective implementation.
