Guide
What does “forecasted” mean for a federal grant?
Updated · GrantsJunction editorial
A forecasted grant is an agency's advance notice that it expects to post a funding opportunity. Forecasts list estimated dates, funding and eligibility, but applications are not accepted until the agency posts the full notice, and forecast details can change or the opportunity may not be posted at all. Forecasts are valuable because they give you time to register, build partnerships and draft before the clock starts.
How to use forecasts
- Note the estimated posting and due dates, and work backward to plan registrations and drafting.
- Check last year's notice under the same Assistance Listing to understand likely requirements.
- Contact the agency person listed on the forecast with questions about scope.
- Revisit regularly — when a forecast is posted as a full notice, its status changes to open.
Useful links
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply to a forecasted opportunity?
No. You can apply only after the agency posts the opportunity and opens the application package.
General information, not legal or grant-writing advice. Rules can change — the official notice and the awarding agency govern.