Your TL;DR: A government shutdown can delay or disrupt federal grantmaking. The one thing you can control is how you prepare. Strong evaluation helps your project stay credible, measurable, and ready when funding resumes. EBHC has the track record to guide you through uncertain times.
The Shutdown Effect on Federal Grants
When the federal government shuts down, agencies like NSF, NIH, and DOE may experience delays in processing grant applications, issuing new awards, or even releasing funds for existing projects. Program officers may not be available to answer questions or approve key steps.
For applicants and grantees, this uncertainty can feel overwhelming. You cannot control when Congress resolves a shutdown. What you can control is how prepared your proposal or active project is to withstand delays and still demonstrate progress.
👉 For more background on how shutdowns impact grants, see our earlier post here.
Why Evaluation is Critical During a Shutdown
Evaluation is often seen as a long-term measure, but during times of uncertainty, it becomes a stabilizing force. A strong evaluation framework can:
- Document progress: Even if your award disbursement is delayed, evaluation data proves your project is still advancing.
- Protect credibility: Reviewers and funders want assurance that you are tracking measurable outcomes despite external disruptions.
- Support sustainability: Evaluation evidence strengthens your case for continuation or renewal once normal operations resume.
Without evaluation, projects risk being seen as stalled or unprepared when shutdowns interrupt federal processes.
What Happens Without Evaluation
Institutions that fail to prioritize evaluation may find themselves in a vulnerable position:
- No clear documentation of progress if reports are delayed.
- Missed opportunities to adjust strategies while waiting on funding.
- Lost credibility with reviewers who want to see resilience and preparedness.
A shutdown is beyond your control. Not having an evaluation in place is not.
Why EBHC is the Partner You Need
EBHC has successfully served as evaluator for programs impacted by federal funding cycles, including:
Our independent, evidence-based evaluations help institutions tell a clear, data-driven story even when federal timelines are disrupted.
Moving Forward in Times of Uncertainty
Shutdowns will continue to be a part of the federal funding landscape. The question is whether your institution is prepared to show progress, resilience, and impact regardless of political gridlock.
Strong evaluation gives you that advantage. EBHC ensures your projects stay credible and measurable, even when federal processes slow down.
Ready To Take the Next Step?
We assist our clients in locating, applying for, and evaluating the outcomes of non-dilutive grant funding. We believe non-dilutive funding is a crucial tool for mitigating investment risks, and we are dedicated to guiding our clients through the entire process—from identifying the most suitable opportunities to submitting and managing grant applications.