Sophia Vomvoris
Sophia Vomvoris joined McAllister & Quinn in 2022 and currently serves as a Senior Research Analyst for the firm’s Nonprofit & Public Agencies Practice. In this role, she contributes to the practice’s business development and government relations efforts, manages internal data, provides strategic analysis on policy and legislative developments related to funding opportunities that align with our client’s objectives,
Proposed Updates to the Federal Assistance Portal Could Affect Nonprofits Applying for and Managing Federal Grants
The General Services Administration is proposing updates to the System for Award Management (SAM.gov), the online portal used by nonprofits, state and local governments, and other organizations to apply for and manage federal financial assistance. The proposed revisions would affect a wide range of funding mechanisms, including grants, cooperative agreements, loans, and direct appropriations.
Currently, organizations must maintain an active SAM.gov registration to receive or apply for federal funding. This system is a core part of the federal awards process, ensuring transparency and accountability for recipients of federal financial assistance.
How the Proposed Sam.gov Updates Can Affect Future Funding
Under the new proposed rule, federal agencies are considering revisions to the certifications that organizations must make when registering in SAM.gov or applying for federal financial assistance. This change would require applicants and recipients to sign additional representations and certifications about illegal immigration, terrorism, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) under penalty of civil and criminal law. By signing these certifications, organizations would be formally confirming that certain statements about their operations, activities, and compliance with federal requirements are true.
An organization could face legal consequences if the information provided is later found to be false or inaccurate. In practice, this means nonprofit leaders and staff responsible for submitting SAM.gov registrations would need to carefully review and verify the information they are certifying.
According to the National Council of Nonprofits, the proposed SAM.gov changes could disrupt nonprofit operations and create uncertainty for organizations that depend on federal funding to serve vulnerable populations. They encourage nonprofit organizations to review the proposed rule and share feedback before the comment period closes on March 30, 2026.
What Resources are Available?
Nonprofits interested in submitting comments are encouraged to use the resources provided by the National Council of Nonprofits, including their comment guide on how to submit a public comment.
If you would like additional information about how these changes may affect your organization or federal funding opportunities, please contact us at McAllister & Quinn.