Grants

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On May 19, 2025, the Department of Justice (“DOJ”) announced its Civil Rights Fraud Initiative (the “CRFI”). As discussed in our post related to that announcement, the CRFI mobilizes federal, state, and local law enforcement to investigate whether recipients of federal funds have DEI programs that violate federal civil rights laws. Multiple federal and state agencies are reportedly conducting investigations into DEI programs within corporations and institutions of higher education.

Last week, President Trump issued Executive Order 14332, Improving Oversight of Federal Grantmaking. The order imposes a new review process to realign discretionary grant awards and ensure that any future grants issued under this Administration align with the President’s policies. Here’s an overview of what grant applicants and potential recipients should be aware of before pursuing your next award.