Short Course – Managing USAID Grants and Cooperative Agreements: Rules and Regulations
About This Course
Course Overview:
This course provides an in-depth understanding of the rules and regulations governing grants and cooperative agreements issued by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Participants will learn the legal framework, policies, and procedures essential for managing USAID-funded projects, ensuring compliance, and optimizing project outcomes.
Course Objectives:
Understand the legal and regulatory framework of USAID grants and cooperative agreements.
Gain knowledge of the policies and procedures for applying, managing, and closing USAID-funded projects.
Learn the key compliance requirements and how to ensure adherence.
Develop skills to manage financial aspects, including budgeting, reporting, and audits.
Understand the roles and responsibilities of recipients and USAID officials.
Target Audience:
Project managers and administrators of organizations receiving or intending to receive USAID funding.
Financial officers responsible for managing USAID grants and cooperative agreements.
Compliance officers and auditors.
Legal advisors and consultants working with USAID-funded projects.
Professionals seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in international development funding mechanisms.
Course Content:
Module 1: Introduction to USAID and Its Funding Mechanisms
Overview of USAID
Types of funding mechanisms: Grants vs. Cooperative Agreements
Key terminology and definitions
Module 2: Legal and Regulatory Framework
Federal regulations governing USAID funding
USAID-specific policies and guidelines (ADS 303, CFR 22, etc.)
Key legislative acts and their implications
Module 3: Application Process
Steps for applying for USAID grants and cooperative agreements
Understanding and preparing proposals
Evaluation criteria and selection process
Module 4: Award Management
Roles and responsibilities of recipients
Understanding the award document and terms
Managing project implementation and performance
Module 5: Financial Management
Budgeting and financial planning
Cost principles and allowable costs
Financial reporting requirements
Audits and financial reviews
Module 6: Compliance and Monitoring
Key compliance requirements
Monitoring and evaluation (M&E) strategies
Handling non-compliance and corrective actions
Module 7: Closeout Procedures
Steps for closing out a grant or cooperative agreement
Final reporting and documentation
Post-award responsibilities and records retention
Module 8: Case Studies and Practical Exercises
Analysis of real-world examples
Group discussions and problem-solving exercises
Practical tips for effective grant and cooperative agreement management
Teaching Methods:
Lectures and presentations
Case studies and group discussions
Practical exercises and role-playing scenarios
Q&A sessions with experts
Interactive workshops
Course Duration:
5 days (40 hours total)/ or 4 weeks.
Certification:
Participants will receive a certificate of completion upon successfully finishing the course and meeting all assessment criteria.
Instructor Profile:
The course will be led by experienced professionals with extensive knowledge in USAID funding mechanisms, compliance, and project management. Instructors include former USAID officials, legal experts, and senior project managers from leading development organizations.
This course brief outlines a comprehensive program designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage USAID grants and cooperative agreements, ensuring compliance and enhancing project success.
Material Includes
- Upon enrollment, you'll unlock access to a wealth of course materials meticulously curated on our advanced eLearning Platform. These resources, presented in diverse formats such as engaging audiovisuals, compelling graphics, and informative texts, are meticulously structured to ensure seamless learning progression. Each unit seamlessly builds upon the previous, offering a comprehensive journey through fundamental principles, industry-specific terminology, practical applications, and advanced execution methods.
- The course content spans an array of topics essential for mastering the field, providing you with a holistic understanding and practical skills necessary for success. Whether you're a novice or seasoned professional, our step-by-step approach empowers you to not only grasp complex concepts but also apply them with confidence in real-world scenarios.
- Here's a glimpse of what our comprehensive course materials and resources entail:
- • Detailed Study Guide to navigate through the course content effectively.
- • Interactive Live Lectures delivered via platforms like Zoom or Google Meet, ensuring dynamic engagement and real-time interaction.
- • Access to E-books and recommended readings curated by experts in the field, enriching your understanding and providing further insights.
- • "Key Concept" videos to reinforce essential topics and aid in comprehension.
- • Online Recorded Webinars offering additional insights and practical demonstrations by industry experts.
- • Revision Sessions facilitated by module tutors, focusing on specific topics to consolidate learning.
- • Access to Past Examination Papers and Examiners' Reports to familiarize yourself with assessment formats and expectations.
- • Personalized Feedback from module tutors via online discussion forums and individualized assessment evaluations.
- • Ongoing Tutor Support available throughout the academic year, ensuring guidance and assistance from the beginning to the end.
- • With our comprehensive support system and cutting-edge resources, you'll embark on a transformative learning journey, equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in your field.
- Training Format:
- - Access course materials, lectures, and resources through our state-of-the-art Online Learning Platform
- - Engage in interactive discussions, case studies, and practical exercises to reinforce learning
- - Benefit from expert guidance and feedback from industry-leading instructors throughout the program
Requirements
- - Dedicate approximately 10 - 12 hours per week to coursework and learning activities
- - Course duration: 4 weeks or 5 consecutive days.
Target Audience
- This course welcomes applicants from all corners of the globe, spanning diverse career fields and including self-employed individuals seeking to enhance their skill sets and professional competencies.
- Furthermore, this course holds immense value for a wide spectrum of professionals, including:
- • Government workers seeking to augment their project management capabilities within bureaucratic settings.
- • UN workers and diplomats striving to navigate complex project landscapes with diplomacy and efficacy.
- • Humanitarian workers dedicated to improving project outcomes in crisis-affected regions and supporting vulnerable populations.
- • Employees of international organizations committed to driving impactful initiatives on a global scale.
- • Professionals in the field of Human Development aiming to integrate robust project oversight and evaluation methodologies into their practices.
- • Any individual with a keen interest in project management principles and methodologies, eager to expand their knowledge and proficiency in the field.
- • Members of multinational companies aiming to streamline project processes and maximize efficiency across diverse cultural and operational contexts.
- Regardless of your professional background or organizational affiliation, this course offers invaluable insights, practical tools, and strategies tailored to meet the diverse needs and challenges faced by individuals and entities on a global scale.