There are very few organizations right now that are not feeling the impact of the funding pause. Whether you're awaiting grant disbursements, contract payments, or program renewals, the uncertainty of the pause can create real operational challenges. While the pause can take up to 90+ days, organizations can take proactive steps to mitigate risks and advocate for timely resolution in the following ways.
Understand your funding status. Not all funding streams are affected in the same way. Some programs have been lifted, but are still facing internal constraints on how the funding can be spent, while others are frozen indefinitely.
Contact your program officer. Agencies are limited in what they can say during a pause, but they may be able to provide insight on next steps.
Review past precedents. This is not the first administration to pause spending upon taking office. If your funding has been delayed before, look at how previous pauses played out and how they were resolved.
Document Impacts and engage Congressional offices. Whether elected officials are being vocal on the funding freeze or not, know that every congressional office is being inundated with impact stories about the freeze on their constituents. The organizations that effectively communicate the consequences of funding delays are best positioned to get attention from decision-makers. We recommend you document and share as much as you possibly can on the impact of the freeze to build support on expediting lifting the pause for your particular program.
Quantify the impact. To the extent that you can, document how the funding pause is affecting your ability to deliver services, employ staff, or meet obligations.
Engage your Congressional delegation. Lawmakers need concrete examples of how funding disruptions impact constituents. A well-timed call, letter, or meeting can elevate your concerns.
Coordinate with coalitions and trade groups. If your funding pause is affecting a broader sector, work with aligned organizations to amplify your message – especially if it spans geographies and delegations.
Stay on top of Congressional & agency developments. Federal budget negotiations are fluid, and funding resolutions can move quickly.
Sign up for agency alerts. Many federal agencies provide updates on grant and contract statuses through email lists or public notices.
Be prepared to act fast. Once funding is restored, agencies may expedite obligations—ensure your team is ready to submit required paperwork or reports immediately.
Making sure to document the impact and share the benefits of the program to incoming administration politicals will go a long way in protecting future funding for this program. To the extent that you can work with aligned organizations and your congressional delegation to lift up the importance of the program, you will be best positioned to advocate for lifting the pause.
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