How the 2024 Election Could Reshape Federal Grants: Harris-Walz vs. Trump-Vance

As we approach the 2024 election, understanding how a potential Harris-Walz or Trump-Vance administration could shape federal competitive grants is crucial for any strategic grantseeker. Here, we forecast how eight major federal agencies may adjust funding priorities and programs. Whether you’re a grant seeker or advisor, this analysis offers insights to help you plan for the years ahead.

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Priorities Unlikely to Change, Regardless of Administration

Certain funding areas, including rural development, national security technology, opioid crisis support, workforce training, and public safety, are likely to remain stable across administrations.

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Under a Harris-Walz Administration: Expanding Federal Grants for Climate, Equity, and Innovation

1. Climate Action and Renewable Energy Grants

   We expect a Harris-Walz administration to continue significant funding for climate resilience and clean energy. Initiatives established under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) are likely to see growth, especially in sectors related to renewable energy.

2. Equity and Community Support Programs

   Competitive grants would likely expand affordable housing, healthcare, and education support, especially for low-income and marginalized communities. Key initiatives like the Justice40 mandate may continue to ensure that climate and clean energy funds benefit disadvantaged communities.

3. Technology and Innovation Funding

   Funding for artificial intelligence, semiconductor production, and national technology hubs is likely to remain a high priority. Investment in workforce training for technology and advanced manufacturing may also increase.

4. Job Training and Childcare Initiatives

   Workforce programs, especially those supporting clean energy job creation, are expected to receive substantial grants. Harris-Walz may also emphasize childcare support as a requirement for federal grants over $150 million, a trend seen in recent CHIPS Act funding.

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Under a Trump-Vance Administration: Focusing on Traditional Energy and Rural Infrastructure

1. Energy and Traditional Manufacturing Grants

   A Trump-Vance administration may direct competitive funding toward oil, gas, and traditional manufacturing sectors, with less emphasis on renewable energy initiatives. Grants focused on climate or environmental justice may experience cutbacks.

2. Rural Development and Local Infrastructure

   Expect significant funding for rural infrastructure projects, such as roadway construction and agricultural support. This administration may continue opportunity zone programs and prioritize economic incentives for rural areas.

3. Deregulation and Streamlined Funding Requirements

   This administration may pursue deregulation policies for industries like energy and transportation, potentially reducing grant eligibility requirements and focusing on efficiency in federal grant applications.

4. Public Safety and Community Funding Adjustments

   Competitive grants could prioritize public safety and law enforcement, with increased support for rural healthcare. Social and environmental justice programs may be restructured or reallocated.

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Departmental Grant Trends

• Department of Agriculture (USDA)

  • Harris-Walz: Grants likely to focus on climate-resilient agriculture, conservation, and rural clean energy.

  • Trump-Vance: Increased funding for traditional agricultural development and crop-specific programs.

• Department of Commerce

  • Harris-Walz: Grants supporting tech innovation, broadband access, and semiconductor production are expected to grow.

  • Trump-Vance: Prioritizes traditional manufacturing and rural broadband over urban tech hubs.

• Department of Energy (DOE) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

  • Harris-Walz: Renewable energy and emissions reduction programs remain primary. The Justice40 initiative could continue directing resources to low-income communities.

  • Trump-Vance: Likely support for fossil fuels and traditional energy with reduced focus on climate initiatives.

• Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)

  • Harris-Walz: Emphasis on healthcare access for marginalized groups, addiction treatment, and childcare support.

  • Trump-Vance: Funding directed towards telehealth in rural areas and opioid crisis response.

• Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

  • Harris-Walz: Initiatives to combat housing shortages and support affordable housing.

  • Trump-Vance: Greater focus on homeownership and opportunity zone programs.

• Department of Labor (DOL)

  • Harris-Walz: Focus on equitable job training in green energy sectors, apprenticeships, and worker support.

  • Trump-Vance: Prioritizes traditional workforce development and state-directed job training programs.

• Department of Justice (DOJ)

  • Harris-Walz: Grants focused on community justice reform, restorative justice, and police training.

  • Trump-Vance: Law enforcement grants may focus on immigration enforcement and policing initiatives.

• Department of Transportation (DOT)

  • Harris-Walz: Continued support for climate-friendly infrastructure and multimodal transportation projects.

  • Trump-Vance: Focuses on road infrastructure, particularly in rural regions, with reduced emphasis on climate-focused grants.

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Ultimately, while both potential administrations may maintain certain core grant programs, their different priorities highlight how the federal grant landscape could shift significantly. Congressional appropriations will shape funding realities, but understanding potential directions under each administration can help grant seekers and advisors plan strategically.