Practical observations as we head into the next NOFO cycle — patterns we are seeing across the field.
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A Note on the Upcoming Federal Funding Cycle
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Colleagues,
As many of you know, AIDS United has been closely tracking developments in the federal funding landscape, particularly as they relate to the HIV prevention and care programs many of us operate and support together.
Given how quickly things are shifting, we wanted to reach out directly to the organizations and partners in our network rather than let you navigate this moment without the benefit of what we are hearing and seeing. This note is meant to share a few practical observations as we head into the next NOFO cycle. These are patterns we are seeing across the field, and they may inform how you plan and prepare over the coming weeks.
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Timelines May Be Compressed |
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We would encourage partners to plan for shorter turnaround windows on applications, revisions, and continuations. Having draft language, current data, and core supporting materials ready to go will matter more than usual.
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Language Is Carrying More Weight |
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How programs are described appears to be receiving closer attention in review processes. It is worth taking a careful pass across narratives, work plans, and supporting materials to ensure clarity, consistency, and alignment with current federal expectations.
In particular, some organizations are finding it useful to review how certain terms are framed, including:
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DEI and equity-related language |
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Identity-specific framing (including LGBTQ and gender-related language) |
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Structural or systems-focused terminology |
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Immigration-related references |
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Broad descriptors such as “marginalized” or “underserved” without accompanying definition |
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| The work itself does not change. How it is described may matter more in this environment. |
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Organizational Consistency Is Receiving Attention |
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There appears to be greater scrutiny of alignment across programs, communications, and organizational positioning overall. This is worth factoring into your internal review processes.
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Track Record and Operational Readiness |
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Even where review processes appear streamlined on the front end, demonstrated outcomes, capacity, and organizational stability are still being weighted on the back end.
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Building Internal Review Infrastructure |
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Many organizations are quietly building internal review infrastructure to move faster and reduce risk. Consistent with sound data governance practices, some are using AI tools to sense-check language and tone, identify potential compliance flags, align application sections, and pressure-test drafts before submission.
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This is a tighten-and-prepare moment.
We will share more as things become clearer, and we are happy to compare notes or think through approaches with any of you directly.
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Thank you for the partnership and the work you carry every day.
AIDS United
To connect directly, email CBA@aidsunited.org
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AIDS United | aidsunited.org
1001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Suite 601, Washington, DC 20036
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