The Formation of a GRANTS MANAGEMENT TASK FORCE, or as 1stCHOICEFG calls it —  GRANTSSTAT, is our customized vehicle through which departments and/or  divisions can be trained for grants research, writing, submittal, execution and closeout.

Due to a failure to research and prepare for the management of grants in each of the departments and/or divisions, this training and development becomes necessary.

 GRANTSTAT is vitally important to developing a healthy grants management system for a city, town, municipality, and state.

As 1stCHOICEFG works with each division, we’ll be able to identify which grants are either 1) already being worked through; or 2) need applications submitted. The goal is to match gaps in submissions and review open opportunities for each division to be sure they are arranging for applicable grant submissions.

During the training sessions, the divisional grants representatives will be learning (broad base):

• How to read a grants calendar
• How to assess applicable grants (to their division)
• How to research applicable grants
• The importance of accurate DUNS and SAM numbers
• The difference between types of grants
• The nuances of following grant submission guidelines
• How to formulate a grant proposal (outline)
• How to correctly write a grant
• How to develop the correct perspective in writing a grant
• How to manage multiple grants
• How to properly submit a grant application
• How to track submitted grant applications
• Management of an awarded grant
• Execution of the project attached to an awarded grant
• The importance of accurate documentation during grant execution
• What to do after the grant project is completed
• Grant Closeout procedures
• Appropriate documentation of grants submitted, awarded, or not awarded
• How to review previous non-awarded grant submissions and assess potential concerns
• How to review previous awarded grant submissions and utilize correct procedures

These are just some of the main topics that will be discussed over a 7-week period of sessions.

Applicant Agent training will be conducted the end of the sessions and will be required for each of the divisional representatives in order for them to complete the DHS/FEMA certification process.

A detailed grants management manual, as well as Applicant Agent training certification program will be utilized to assist each for the divisional grants representatives throughout the first part of the GRANTSTAT program.

GRANTS RESEARCH, ASSESSMENT, WRITING and SUBMISSION (PART TWO)

As part of the GRANTSTAT program, 1stCHOICEFG will assist in creating a grants submission calendar that will cross all departments and/or divisions.

During the allotted training period, 1stCHOICEFG will research, assess, and write applicable quantity of grants per month, across all divisions. 1stCHOICEFG will also compile imperical data regarding each department and/or division’s grant application and submittal processes.

Over the course of the rest training sesssions, 1stCHOICEFG will meet with and strategize with each department and/or division regarding their applicable grants. The assessment of each division will be based on capabilities, needs, “wish-lists”, and open opportunities that match their assessment.

During the remainder of the training sessions, 1stCHOICEFG will also continue to monitor the progress of the divisions through the GRANTSTAT program in the hopes that a solid foundation and understanding will create a financially sound process for divisional grants management.

PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE ASSESSMENT (PART THREE)

Structural assessment and reporting will be conducted and sent to DHS and FEMA. Submission of the current infrastructure is critical, as it lays a baseline for disaster mitigation opportunities.

Infrastructure assessments include (but are not limited to):

• actual structural integrity of facilities;
• integrity of building systems;
• surrounding environment hazard potential (is there a potential of a building causing damage to it’s surrounding neighbors);
• utility integrity (are items to code or appropriate specification); and
• in the event of a disaster, will the facility be rendered useless, cause potentially more damage, or can the facility be used as a place for response and mitigation.

These assessments must be performed by a qualified agent (1stCHOICEFG) who has the experience and equipment to carry out the assignment and document accordingly for submission to DHS and FEMA.

NATIONAL MEETINGS

Additionally, 1stCHOICEFG will consult, setup, and coordinate national meetings required for applicable grant sumbissions. These meetings would be held in Washington, D.C., and would require a day set aside per month for the department and/or division Directors to be present..