Grants and cooperative agreements are two forms of funding that organizations can receive from the government or other entities. While they are both forms of financial assistance, they differ in significant ways.

Grants are typically awarded to organizations that propose a project or program that aligns with the goals and priorities of the funding agency. If awarded a grant, the recipient organization is expected to use the funds to carry out the proposed project or program, with minimal involvement from the funding agency. In other words, grants are essentially gifts of money that do not require any further input or collaboration from the funding agency.

Cooperative agreements, on the other hand, involve a more collaborative relationship between the funding agency and the recipient organization. Like grants, cooperative agreements are awarded to organizations that propose projects or programs that align with the funding agency’s goals. However, unlike grants, cooperative agreements involve a higher degree of involvement from the funding agency in the planning, implementation, and management of the project. This could include technical assistance, monitoring, and regular reporting requirements.

One way to understand the difference between grants and cooperative agreements is to think of them as two ends of a spectrum. Grants are on one end of the spectrum, representing a “hands-off” approach from the funding agency, while cooperative agreements are on the other end, representing a more involved and collaborative approach.

So, which is better for your organization – a grant or a cooperative agreement? The answer really depends on what you hope to achieve with the funding. If your organization has a strong track record of success in similar projects and has the capacity to manage the project independently, a grant might be the better option. On the other hand, if your organization is looking for more technical guidance and support from the funding agency, and is willing to work closely with the agency to achieve the project’s goals, a cooperative agreement might be the better fit.

Ultimately, the decision to pursue a grant or a cooperative agreement should be based on a careful evaluation of your organization’s capacity and needs, as well as the requirements and expectations of the funding agency. By understanding the differences between grants and cooperative agreements, you can make an informed decision that will help you achieve your organization’s goals.