With billions of dollars of funding annually and thousands of different categories the federal government grant program is a tremendously complex bureaucratic undertaking. The funds that are given to American individuals and corporations serve many different functions from advancing agricultural technology to supporting local libraries. The job of organizing and running such a diverse program would be a challenge for any one organization. The solution the government has developed is to use many agencies to run the program.
Public funds earmarked for the grant programs are funneled through one of 26 government agencies that manage the day to day operations and coordinates the individual grants programs. To apply for a federal grant award candidates much work and apply directly to the agencies. A sample of the governmental agencies is below.
Department of the Treasury
The Treasury Depart has gained prominence recently as a major player in the ongoing economic recovery. It is the department’s job to guide and support the U.S. economy and financial industry to promote stability and growth. They have also been instrumental in getting congress to approve large amounts of money to fuel the nation’s economic recovery.
Department of Veterans Affairs
Created to help support and care for veterans of the armed service the Department of Veterans Affairs provides a range of services. This department is especially important now as the United States still has many troops fighting overseas. This agency is vital in ensuring that the men and women of the armed services are cared for and supported when then return home and throughout their lives.
Environmental Protection Agency
The Environmental Protection Agency has worked since 1970 to protect America’s natural environment and keep its citizens safe from dangerous environmental conditions. The agency has been instrumental in recognizing and cleaning potentially dangerous environmental hazards including chemical spills and manufacturing run off.
Institute of Museum and Library Services
As the primary source of public support for over 120,00 libraries and 17,000 museums the Institute of Museum and Library Services is one of the biggest contributors to civic institutions across the country. The institute is at the forefront of encouraging cultural , community, and civic development.
National Aeronautics and Space Administration
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration, or NASA, is responsible for some of the most awe inspiring achievements of the United States’ government including the moon landing and never before seen images captured by the Hubble telescope. The agency has also made many contributions in the areas of science, space operations, computer science, and materials technologies.
National Archives and Records Administration
The National Archives and Records Administration is responsible for documenting and recording all that the federal government says and does. This is an invaluable function for any democracy because it encourages citizen participation and helps to hold government officials accountable for their actions and policies.