FY26 Congressional Earmarks: What You Need to Know as Portals Start to Open

We’re starting to see Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) portals open for FY26, and the window to apply moves quickly. If you’re a nonprofit or local government looking to secure federal funding for community projects, now is the time to prepare. With tight deadlines and a highly competitive selection process, success often depends on early preparation and strategic engagement with congressional offices.

At Grant Management Associates (GMA), we specialize in navigating the complex earmark process, preparing compelling applications, and guiding organizations from proposal development through post-award administration. Learn more about how you can secure funding below.

What Are Congressional Earmarks?

Earmarks—also known as Community Project Funding (CPF) in the House—allow members of Congress to direct federal dollars to specific local projects. Unlike competitive grants, earmarks are requested through congressional offices rather than a federal agency.

However, funding is extremely limited, deadlines are tight, and the selection process is highly competitive. To maximize your chances, applicants must submit a well-developed proposal early and secure congressional support before the request portal closes.

Why Congressional Engagement Matters

A strong relationship with your congressional representatives can significantly improve your chances of securing an earmark. The most successful applicants:

• Engage with congressional offices early to align their project with legislative priorities.
• Submit well-prepared applications with clear objectives, budgets, and justification for funding.
• Secure letters of support from key stakeholders and government officials.
• Demonstrate project readiness—some CDS accounts require matching funds, so identifying additional funding sources in advance is critical.

At GMA, we help clients develop winning CDS applications, engage effectively with congressional offices, and manage post-award administration to ensure compliance and long-term success.

Which Accounts Are Eligible for CDS Funding?

Each year, the Senate Appropriations Committee designates certain accounts within federal agencies as eligible for earmarks. Based on previous years, here are some common categories:

• Department of Agriculture (Rural Development, Watershed & Flood Prevention, Telemedicine & Broadband Grants)
• Department of Commerce (NIST Research & Facilities, NOAA Research & Operations)
• Department of Justice (Byrne Grants, COPS Law Enforcement Equipment)
• Department of Homeland Security (FEMA Pre-Disaster Mitigation, Emergency Operations Centers)
• Department of Energy (Renewable Energy, Energy Resiliency, Cybersecurity)
• Department of the Interior & EPA (Clean Water & Drinking Water State Revolving Funds, Historic Preservation, Forestry Grants)
• Department of Transportation & HUD (Airport Improvement, Highway & Transit Infrastructure, Economic Development Initiatives)
• Department of Health and Human Services (HRSA Health Facilities, SAMHSA Substance Abuse & Mental Health, Community Living)
• Department of Education (Fund for the Improvement of Education & Postsecondary Education)
• Military Construction & Veterans Affairs (Army, Navy, Air Force, Reserve Military Construction Projects)

Important Considerations for FY26

Since Congress has not yet passed FY25 appropriations bills, guidance for FY26 is still subject to change. As noted in applications from Senator Murray’s office:

"Congress has not passed FY25 appropriations bills and has therefore not processed any CDS funding contained in FY25 appropriations bills. Additionally, the guidance provided in this form is derived from FY25 CDS guidance, and at this time, the Senate Appropriations Committee has not issued CDS guidance for FY26. Therefore, the requirements, content, availability of accounts, and deadlines associated with this form may change based upon passage of FY25 funding and the issuance of FY26 guidance from the Senate Appropriations Committee. All CDS funding is contingent upon enactment of FY26 appropriations bills."

Now Accepting Applications: Open Congressional Portals & Deadlines

Several congressional offices have already opened their portals for CDS requests. If your project is in one of these states, don’t wait—applications are due soon.

·? Michigan – Senator Gary Peters | Due March 17, 2025 |?Form

·? New Jersey – Representative Andy Kim | Due March 17, 2025 |Website

·? Delaware – Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester | Due March 28, 2025 |?Website

·? Delaware – Senator Chris Coons | Due March 28, 2025 |?Website

·? Vermont – Senator Peter Welch | Due March 28, 2025 |?Website

·? Minnesota – Senator Amy Klobuchar | Due March 31, 2025 |?Website

·? New York – Senator Chuck Schumer | Due March 31, 2025 |?Website

·? Washington - Senator Patty Murray| Due April 1, 2025 |?Website

How to Get Started

With tight deadlines and high competition, successful applicants must prepare early.

• Develop a strong project scope and budget before your state’s portal opens.
• Engage with congressional offices early to align your request with their priorities.
• Determine if matching funds are required and secure additional funding if needed.
• Have letters of support from key stakeholders ready to strengthen your request.

At Grant Management Associates (GMA), we bring decades of expertise in securing federal funding, managing complex grant processes, and ensuring successful post-award administration. We work with organizations across industries to:

• Navigate the congressional earmark process.
• Prepare competitive, well-positioned CDS applications.
• Engage effectively with congressional offices to build project advocacy.
• Manage compliance and reporting for awarded earmarks.

If your organization is considering a Congressional Earmark for FY26, our team can provide expert guidance at every stage of the process.

Email?[email protected]?to get started.