A competitive grant is federal money awarded after schools, universities, nonprofits, or governments apply and are scored against program rules. Competitive grants differ from formula grants, which distribute money by set formulas, and block grants, which give states broader discretion. Competitive grants let Congress target money to specific public goals, such as teacher preparation, civics education, magnet schools, migrant education, or education research.
Competitive grants turn congressional priorities into specific programs. When an administration delays or eliminates competitions, it can stop a program without openly repealing the law that funded it.
Competitive does not mean optional after Congress appropriates money. Agencies still must follow the statute, run lawful competitions, and spend appropriated funds consistent with congressional direction.
Competitive grants turn congressional priorities into specific programs. When an administration delays or eliminates competitions, it can stop a program without openly repealing the law that funded it.
Competitive does not mean optional after Congress appropriates money. Agencies still must follow the statute, run lawful competitions, and spend appropriated funds consistent with congressional direction.