Introduction to CFDA
The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) was a comprehensive guidebook that detailed federal assistance programs within the United States. These programs included grants, loans, scholarships, counseling, and other types of assistance available to individuals, corporations, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. The CFDA numbered over 2,200 unique programs across various departments and agencies when it was retired in 2018. This section will introduce the historical context, purpose, and essential features of the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance.
Historical Context
The CFDA was first introduced by the General Services Administration (GSA) in 1984 to compile federal assistance programs available to American entities. Its purpose was to provide a centralized resource for government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and the public to access information about these programs easily. The CFDA website offered users a searchable database, with each program assigned a unique five-digit number.
Purpose and Features
The primary goal of the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance was to provide a standardized catalog for federal assistance programs available across various agencies and departments. By consolidating this information, the GSA aimed to increase transparency in the awards process, simplify the application experience, and reduce potential fraud.
Key Features:
1. Centralized database of domestic assistance programs
2. Federally-published and searchable by program type and number (CFDA #)
3. Unique five-digit numbering system for easy identification
4. Updated regularly to reflect changes in government programs
5. Offered information on grant, loan, scholarship, counseling, and other types of assistance
6. Provided contact information for each program’s federal agency or department
7. Open to the public, state and local governments, tribal governments, and businesses
The CFDA was an essential resource for entities seeking information about federal grants, loans, scholarships, counseling, and other forms of assistance available through the U.S. government. Its retirement in 2018 marked a significant shift in how these programs were accessed and administered within the United States. In this article, we will explore the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance’s transformation into the System for Award Management (SAM.gov).
Stay tuned for the following sections in this detailed guide:
– Structure of the CFDA
– CFDA’s Transition to SAM.gov
– Federal Assistance Programs in the CFDA/SAM.gov
– CFDA vs Scams: Avoiding Fraud
– Popular Federal Assistance Programs in the CFDA/SAM.gov
– Small Business Programs in the CFDA/SAM.gov
– Accessing Assistance Programs via CFDA/SAM.gov
– Agency Responsibilities in the CFDA/SAM.gov
– CFDA FAQs
Structure of the CFDA
The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) was a comprehensive list of federal assistance programs, providing details about grants, loans, scholarships, counseling, and other kinds of support available to individuals, state and local governments, federally recognized Native American tribal governments, companies, nonprofit organizations, and others. The CFDA’s structure made it easy for users to access information on various federal assistance programs through a unique five-digit numbering system.
This system consisted of the first two digits representing the responsible federal agency and the last three digits denoting the specific program itself. The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance was managed by the General Services Administration (GSA) and, from 1984 until 2018, was available on the CFDA.gov website.
When the CFDA transitioned to SAM.gov in 2018, its purpose remained unchanged: to provide a centralized source of information for federal assistance programs. By consolidating various government systems, the new site improved accessibility and streamlined the process for those seeking funding or other types of support from the federal government.
The CFDA’s retirement did not impact the numbering system, which is still used today in the SAM.gov database under the Assistance Listings section. The catalog covers a wide array of assistance programs offered by various U.S. agencies and departments. While the majority of these programs provide financial assistance, some offer non-financial benefits such as counseling or property distribution.
The CFDA’s structure not only aided users in quickly identifying federal support programs but also helped promote transparency and data accessibility. By visiting SAM.gov, entities could easily search for funding opportunities and explore the eligibility requirements associated with each program. The site also allowed users to apply directly through grants.gov or contact the respective agencies for further information.
Throughout its history, the CFDA’s comprehensive database has provided a valuable resource for both individuals and organizations seeking federal assistance. Its structure, which includes the unique five-digit numbering system and user-friendly website, continues to streamline the search process, making it easier for entities to identify potential opportunities that meet their specific needs.
With the consolidation of various government systems into SAM.gov, the CFDA has evolved to better serve its users. Its commitment to transparency, accessibility, and user-friendly features has ensured its relevance as a valuable resource for those seeking assistance from the U.S. federal government.
CFDA’s Transition to SAM.gov
The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) was a comprehensive and detailed repository of federal U.S. assistance programs, which offered information on various grants, loans, scholarships, counseling, and other types of assistance available to individuals, government agencies, corporations, and territories within the American public sphere. The CFDA’s digital platform was accessible at cfda.gov, where it provided a complete listing of federal assistance programs with unique five-digit numbers for identification and data transparency purposes.
In 2018, the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance underwent significant changes as part of an effort to streamline government systems and improve the process of doing business with the U.S. federal government. This involved merging CFDA’s contents with nine other government systems and retiring its website, thus creating a new centralized system called SAM.gov.
The primary objective behind the transition to SAM.gov was to provide a more efficient platform for those seeking access to federal assistance programs. The Assistance Listings section of this site now hosts the CFDA’s former offerings, allowing users to search and access programs in a seamless manner. These assistance programs continue to include loans, grants, insurance, scholarships, and other types of support.
The consolidation process resulted in 2,293 domestic assistance programs available through SAM.gov, with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) being the leading contributor, offering 521 programs. Other agencies with high volumes of assistance programs include the Department of the Interior, the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Justice, and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Since their inception, CFDA and SAM.gov have not solicited awards or applications; instead, they merely serve as comprehensive resources for potential applicants to locate relevant programs. Unfortunately, scammers have taken advantage of the reputation of these platforms by posing as agents representing the Community for Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA), a nonexistent organization, and attempting to defraud individuals with promises of easy grant money. Potential applicants are encouraged to verify that they are dealing with authentic government sources when interacting with SAM.gov or other related resources.
To access specific assistance programs on SAM.gov, users can navigate the Assistance Listings section and follow up with the respective agencies using the contact information provided. It is essential for potential applicants to ensure that they are dealing with genuine federal assistance programs to avoid falling victim to scams and fraudulent activities. By accessing assistance listings on SAM.gov and applying for relevant grants, loans, or other types of support through official channels, individuals can take advantage of the valuable resources available to them.
Federal Assistance Programs in the CFDA/SAM.gov
The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) served as a comprehensive repository of domestic assistance programs offered by various U.S. federal agencies and departments, including grants, loans, scholarships, counseling services, and other assistance initiatives. These programs targeted individuals, state and local governments, federally recognized Native American tribal governments, companies, nonprofit organizations (NPOs), and other entities. Since its inception in 1984, the CFDA became an essential resource for those seeking federal grants and assistance.
With the retirement of the CFDA website in 2018, this information was consolidated into the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) platform. SAM.gov’s Assistance Listings section replaced the former CFDA site, streamlining the process for accessing and applying to federal assistance programs.
Types of Programs
Federal agencies provide numerous types of domestic assistance programs through the CFDA/SAM.gov, which can be broadly categorized into the following:
1. Grants – Financial assistance in the form of grants are provided for various purposes, including research and development, education, infrastructure projects, and community initiatives. These grants often have no repayment requirement and enable recipients to apply their resources towards achieving a specific goal or objective.
2. Loans – Loans can be issued to organizations or individuals who require financial assistance in the form of a short-term or long-term loan. Repayment terms may vary, depending on the program’s purpose and funding source.
3. Scholarships – Merit-based scholarships are offered to students with excellent academic records for further education and skill development. These programs typically do not require repayment, but there may be specific eligibility criteria and application requirements.
4. Counseling services – Assistance through counseling services aims to help individuals and organizations overcome various challenges, such as financial hardships, mental health issues, or career transition needs. These programs can provide professional guidance and resources to facilitate personal growth and development.
5. Property assistance – The federal government may provide property grants or loans for specific purposes, such as affordable housing initiatives or infrastructure projects that serve public interests. This can include land, buildings, vehicles, or other forms of tangible assets.
6. Insurance programs – Federal insurance programs offer protection against financial loss resulting from various risks, such as natural disasters (e.g., floods, earthquakes) and health issues (e.g., Medicare, Medicaid). These programs may provide coverage to individuals or organizations, depending on eligibility requirements.
7. Other assistance programs – Federal agencies also offer a wide range of specialized assistance programs that cater to various needs, such as small business development, research and technology initiatives, workforce training, and disaster relief efforts.
Examples and Common Programs
Some popular federal assistance programs available through the CFDA/SAM.gov include:
1. The Department of Education’s Federal Pell Grant Program (84.063) – This program subsidizes undergraduate education for students with financial need, enabling them to attend and complete their education without being burdened by significant debt.
2. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) (93.558) – Also known as welfare, this program supplements the earnings of low-income families with children, ensuring they can meet their basic needs and improve their overall well-being.
3. Department of Health and Human Services’ Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) (10.263) – SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, helps families purchase nutritious food items by providing electronic benefits that can be used at authorized retailers.
4. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant Program (16.175) – This program provides annual grants to state and local governments for community development and infrastructure projects, focusing on low-income areas and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
5. Small Business Administration’s 7(a) Loan Guaranty Program (25.389) – Offered through the Small Business Administration (SBA), this program provides loans to small businesses that might not otherwise qualify for conventional financing, helping them grow and expand their operations.
6. National Science Foundation Research Grants (47.076) – Funded by the National Science Foundation, these grants support research initiatives in various scientific fields, enabling researchers to explore new ideas, make discoveries, and develop innovative solutions to complex problems.
7. U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Programs (10.845) – These programs offer various forms of assistance for rural communities, focusing on infrastructure development, community facilities, and business expansion initiatives. This helps improve the quality of life in rural areas while promoting economic growth and stability.
Stay tuned as we discuss the transition of CFDA to SAM.gov, as well as important tips on avoiding scams related to federal assistance programs.
CFDA vs Scams: Avoiding Fraud
The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) is a valuable resource for individuals, organizations, and businesses seeking access to federal assistance programs. However, it’s essential to remember that the CFDA itself does not offer grants or solicit applications. Instead, it serves as a comprehensive listing of available opportunities through various federal agencies.
Fraudulent entities and individuals, seeking to exploit unsuspecting recipients, have attempted to create confusion by impersonating the CFDA or similar sounding organizations. These scammers may promise easy access to grant money, request personal information, or demand upfront fees in exchange for grant approval. It’s crucial to distinguish between legitimate federal assistance programs and these fraudulent schemes.
Understanding the difference is vital because engaging with such scams can lead to significant financial losses and potential legal consequences. Below are some key distinctions between CFDA and common scams.
1. The Community for Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) does not exist:
The federal government never created or recognized a “Community for Federal Domestic Assistance” (CFDA). Scammers often use this name as a ruse to deceive potential victims, claiming they are representatives of the CFDA. Be wary of any entity or individual using this name.
2. The federal government does not solicit applications:
The federal government does not request unsolicited applications for grants or other financial assistance via phone calls, emails, or social media. Always double-check if an opportunity is legitimate by visiting the official website of the specific agency offering the program and following their application instructions carefully.
3. Check official websites for accuracy:
Always use official government websites to verify information about federal assistance programs. The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) is now accessible through SAM.gov, as mentioned earlier in this article. This website provides up-to-date and accurate information on available programs. Be sure to double-check the CFDA number assigned to each program to ensure authenticity.
4. No fees for federal grants:
The federal government does not charge any fees for applying for or receiving grants. Any request for payment or personal information before grant approval is a clear indication of a scam. Be cautious and never share sensitive data with unverified entities or individuals.
5. Verify the legitimacy of organizations and individuals:
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) advises checking an organization’s registration status with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Charity Navigator, or other reputable sources before providing personal information or making a payment. If you’re uncertain about an individual or organization’s legitimacy, contact your state Attorney General’s office or the Federal Trade Commission for assistance.
By staying informed and vigilant, you can effectively distinguish between legitimate federal assistance programs and potential scams. Always remember to verify the authenticity of opportunities and protect personal information to avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes.
Popular Federal Assistance Programs in the CFDA/SAM.gov
The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) at SAM.gov offers a wealth of federal assistance programs catering to different needs and purposes. Some programs have garnered significant popularity due to their widespread impact on individuals, businesses, and communities. In this section, we’ll delve deeper into some popular and effective federal assistance programs accessible via the CFDA/SAM.gov portal.
1. Federal Pell Grant Program (84.063)
The Federal Pell Grant Program, administered by the U.S. Department of Education (ED), is a need-based grant targeted at undergraduate students to finance their education. Eligible recipients can receive a maximum award ranging from $1,925 to $6,495 for the academic year, depending on individual circumstances. This program has been a cornerstone in supporting access to higher education and reducing financial barriers for students with financial needs.
2. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (93.558)
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), commonly known as welfare, is a block grant program managed by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). This federal initiative aims to provide short-term financial assistance to families in need. By offering cash payments and various supportive services, TANF empowers families to focus on gaining employment and achieving self-sufficiency.
3. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Flood Insurance Program (97.022)
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)’s flood insurance program ensures homeowners in flood-prone areas are financially protected against potential damages caused by flooding. Offered through the National Flood Insurance Program, this coverage is crucial for homeowners to mitigate potential financial losses during natural disasters.
4. Small Business Administration (SBA) Programs
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) provides various programs tailored to support small businesses, fostering innovation and economic growth. Some SBA programs include:
– Federal and State Technology Partnership Program (FAST) 59.058
This program grants awards to strengthen the technological competitiveness of small businesses in the U.S., enabling them to grow, innovate, and compete within their industries.
The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA)/SAM.gov boasts an extensive range of federal assistance programs catering to various needs, including education, employment, disaster relief, and small business growth. The aforementioned popular federal assistance programs have had a significant impact on individuals, businesses, and communities nationwide.
If you’re interested in applying for one of these federal grants, loans, or programs, visit the SAM.gov website to learn more about eligibility requirements, application processes, and contact information for the respective administering agencies.
Small Business Programs in the CFDA/SAM.gov
The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) has long been a valuable resource for small businesses seeking assistance from the U.S. federal government. While the original CFDA website is no longer accessible, its contents live on through the System for Award Management’s (SAM.gov) Assistance Listings section. This part of our article offers an in-depth look at various federal grant programs for small businesses under CFDA/SAM.gov, including selection, examples, and eligibility criteria.
Selection Process:
The Small Business Administration (SBA), one of the most significant federal agencies offering assistance to small businesses via SAM.gov, uses a competitive grant selection process based on merit review. Merit-based evaluations typically assess applications through two phases: initial screening and full evaluation. These phases may include an assessment of the applicant’s qualifications, project viability, and alignment with program objectives.
Examples of Small Business Programs:
Some popular small business programs available on SAM.gov include the Federal and State Technology Partnership (FAST) Program (59.058), which awards grants to help small businesses develop and commercialize new technologies, and the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program (42.171A and 42.171B), offering competitive grants for research and development in various industries.
Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible for most federal grant programs through CFDA/SAM.gov, applicants must be a small business, meet the size standards set by the SBA, and meet the eligibility requirements of the specific program. For instance, to qualify as a small business under the SBIR program, companies should generally have fewer than 500 employees or meet certain industry-specific size standards.
The Department of Defense (DOD), Department of Energy (DOE), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and Small Business Administration (SBA) are some of the federal agencies offering grants through CFDA/SAM.gov for small businesses. It is essential to thoroughly review each program’s eligibility criteria, application guidelines, and submission deadlines before applying.
In conclusion, the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) is an invaluable resource for small business owners seeking grants and other forms of financial assistance from the U.S. federal government. Although the CFDA website is no longer accessible, its contents continue to be easily accessible on SAM.gov’s Assistance Listings section. By understanding the selection process, examples, and eligibility criteria for various grant programs through CFDA/SAM.gov, small business owners can increase their chances of successfully securing government funding for their projects.
Accessing Assistance Programs via CFDA/SAM.gov
Since its transition from the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) to SAM.gov, entities seeking federal assistance programs have found navigating this comprehensive database increasingly user-friendly. This section aims to guide readers through the process of accessing assistance programs on SAM.gov and understanding the implications for applicants.
First, it’s essential to recognize that SAM.gov is the primary resource where users can locate information about federal grants, loans, scholarships, and other forms of aid administered by various U.S. government departments and agencies. Access to this vast array of programs has been consolidated on a single platform, making it easier for entities to find information and complete applications.
To start the process, users need to create a SAM registration in order to apply for federal grants or awards. This involves setting up a profile with their organization’s information, including tax identification number (TIN), Dun & Bradstreet DUNS Number, and other relevant details. Registration is free of charge but requires an email address for account confirmation and communication purposes.
Once registered, users can search for assistance programs based on specific keywords or Federal Agency and Program numbers. These five-digit codes – the first two digits indicate the agency responsible for administering the program, while the last three digits represent the individual program itself – are essential to ensuring that accurate information is accessed. For example, the Department of Education’s Federal Pell Grant Program (84.063) can be easily located by searching for “Department of Education” and entering “Pell Grant” in the search bar.
SAM.gov offers a variety of advanced search features to help users narrow down their results, such as location-based searches or the ability to filter program types. Users may also contact the Federal agency responsible for administering the specific assistance program through the provided contact information for further details and clarification. This can be found in the “Contacts” tab within each program listing.
Another important aspect of applying for federal grants is understanding the grant application process and deadlines, which can vary widely from one program to another. While some programs accept applications throughout the year, others have specific submission windows. The “Funding Opportunities” section on grants.gov provides a wealth of information about individual grants, including their program descriptions, eligibility requirements, and application instructions.
In summary, accessing assistance programs via CFDA/SAM.gov is an essential process for entities seeking to benefit from federal financial aid and initiatives. By creating a SAM account, users can search for programs based on keywords or agency codes, contact the responsible Federal agencies, and stay informed about grant application processes and deadlines.
Agency Responsibilities in the CFDA/SAM.gov
In the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) and its successor, SAM.gov, federal agencies are responsible for managing, administering, and granting funds to eligible applicants based on various programs’ guidelines and eligibility criteria. These entities determine which organizations or individuals meet the requirements and merit funding.
The General Services Administration (GSA), a federal agency, is not directly involved in grant management but plays an essential role in providing the CFDA/SAM.gov platform for accessing federal assistance information and opportunities. GSA’s responsibility includes maintaining and updating the database of available programs and their corresponding federal agencies, as well as ensuring transparency by publishing the details online.
Agencies responsible for administering specific assistance programs have several responsibilities:
1. Ensuring compliance with eligibility criteria: Agencies must follow the guidelines established by Congress, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), or other relevant executive departments and independent agencies. The eligibility requirements can vary depending on the program.
2. Making funding decisions: Each agency decides which applicants receive grants, loans, or other forms of assistance based on their merit and alignment with the intended purpose of the program. This process includes application review, due diligence, interviews, site visits, and reference checks when necessary.
3. Grant monitoring and reporting: Once funding has been disbursed, agencies are responsible for overseeing grantees’ progress toward achieving their stated objectives. They often require periodic reports on project milestones and financial expenditures to ensure funds are being used effectively and efficiently.
4. Ensuring transparency: Federal agencies must maintain open communication with applicants regarding program requirements, grant decisions, and reporting expectations. Additionally, they provide regular public updates about the grants administered through their websites or SAM.gov.
5. Addressing scams and fraud: Agencies are responsible for educating the public about potential grant scams and warning them to avoid unsolicited offers from entities that impersonate federal assistance programs or the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) itself. In such cases, agencies may work with law enforcement and regulatory bodies to investigate and prosecute fraudulent activities.
When an applicant is awarded a grant, their relationship with the administering agency continues until the project’s completion or the grant termination. The agency monitors progress, assesses outcomes, and manages any necessary modifications or extensions throughout the grant cycle. This collaboration between agencies and grantees ultimately leads to successful implementation of federal assistance programs and helps fulfill the goals set by Congress and the executive branch.
CFDA FAQs
Question: What is the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA)?
Answer: The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) is a comprehensive database that provides detailed information on over 2,000 federal assistance programs, projects, services, and activities that are available to various recipients. This government-wide catalog, now accessible through SAM.gov, enables users to search for programs based on their specific needs and eligibility.
Question: How does the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance benefit institutional and professional investors?
Answer: The CFDA provides invaluable information regarding federal funding opportunities, grant guidelines, application procedures, and contact information for the relevant agencies responsible for administering these programs. Institutional and professional investors can use this knowledge to identify potential investments or partnerships and make informed decisions based on the available data.
Question: What types of entities can benefit from the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance?
Answer: Individuals, state and local governments, federally recognized Native American tribal governments, companies, and nonprofit organizations are among the potential recipients of federal assistance programs listed in the CFDA/SAM.gov.
Question: What types of financial assistance programs does the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance offer?
Answer: The CFDA covers a wide range of assistance programs, including grants, loans, scholarships, insurance, property, counseling, and more. It is important to note that not all programs are financial in nature, as some may provide services or other forms of support instead.
Question: Is the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) still available online?
Answer: Yes, the CFDA’s content can be accessed through the new SAM.gov website. The transition from the traditional CFDA site to this consolidated platform aimed to streamline the awards process and make it easier for authorized entities to do business with the government.
Question: What should I do if I come across a potential scam claiming to represent the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA)?
Answer: Be cautious when encountering unsolicited offers from organizations or individuals claiming to represent the CFDA, even if they seem legitimate at first glance. Always double-check information with official sources, such as the SAM.gov website, and avoid sharing sensitive personal or financial data with suspicious entities. Remember that the government never solicits awards or applications directly, so any request for payment in exchange for a grant is likely to be fraudulent.
Question: How can I access specific federal assistance programs via the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA)?
Answer: To find and access specific federal assistance programs through the CFDA/SAM.gov, start by visiting sam.gov and navigating to the Assistance Listings section. You can then search for programs based on keywords or use the browse function to explore offerings by agency, category, or subcategory. Once you identify a program that fits your needs, follow the provided instructions to contact the responsible federal agency directly for more information on eligibility and application requirements.
Question: What are some common federal assistance programs available through the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA)?
Answer: Some popular federal assistance programs include the Department of Education’s Federal Pell Grant Program (84.063), which subsidizes undergraduate education for students with financial need; the Department of Health and Human Services’ Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (93.558) program, which supplements the earnings of low-income families with children; and the Department of Homeland Security’s flood insurance (97.022) program, administered through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). There are also numerous programs designed to support small businesses, such as the Small Business Administration’s Federal and State Technology Partnership Program (FAST 59.058).
Question: How can I contact the federal agency responsible for managing a specific program within the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA)?
Answer: To get in touch with the appropriate federal agency regarding a particular assistance program, you can utilize the contact information provided on SAM.gov in the CFDA’s program description or use the FedConnect database (FEDConnect.net) to search for the specific point of contact. You may also call the Federal Assistance Help Desk at 1-800-270-8297 with any questions about eligibility, application procedures, and other aspects related to your desired program.
Question: What are some common red flags of potential CFDA scams?
Answer: Be wary of unsolicited offers that promise large grants or financial rewards in exchange for an upfront fee or the provision of personal information. Scammers often pose as representatives of legitimate organizations, such as the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA), to defraud victims. Keep in mind that official agencies and programs will never ask for payment or sensitive data in order to grant assistance or awards. Always double-check any offers with reliable sources and report suspected scams to the appropriate authorities.