Monthly Webinar | What Do You Need in Your Grant Procurement Solicitations to Ensure Your Procurement is "Finding Proof"?-Video Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The NGMA webinar, led by Executive Director Tip Tucker-Kindle and moderated by Jonathan Dunn from PRO LLP, focused on ensuring grant procurement solicitations are compliant and "finding proof." Mara Ash, CEO of BFS Strategic Partners, presented on best practices to meet federal grant procurement requirements, especially amid growing infrastructure grants like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL/IIJA). Key topics included understanding formal versus informal procurements, importance of detailed solicitation documentation, and embedding grant-specific terms and conditions (e.g., Buy America rules) in solicitations and contracts. Attendees learned to maintain thorough records such as bid advertisements, evaluation criteria, and contract awards to satisfy auditors. Ash emphasized that grantees remain responsible for vendor compliance and contract monitoring to avoid costly question costs resulting from non-compliance, including oversight of bonds and contract terms. State agencies must adhere to state procurement laws unless superseded by federal rules, while local governments must comply fully with federal guidelines. She underscored the need for clear local procurement policies and written procedures specifically addressing federal grant procurements. With trillions in federal infrastructure funds expected, rigorous compliance reduces audit risks. The session included interactive polling, FAQs on vendor SAM registration and public-private partnerships, and highlighted available resources for grants management support and upcoming NGMA training events.

Keywords

NGMA webinar

grant procurement compliance

federal grant requirements

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

procurement documentation

Buy America rules

contract monitoring

state and local procurement laws

grants management training