Despite what you may hear on television, the radio, online, or in many publications across the country, the U.
S.
government is not really just giving money away.
In order to get free government grant money the grantee must meet certain expectations and requirements.
Technically, the grant can be seen as free since the money need not be paid back, but there is plenty of work that goes into receiving a grant, so it is not free.
The grantee is obligated to fulfill his or her promises as explained when applying for the grant.
The free government grant money is given under the assumption that these obligations will be met.
If the grantee does not meet the obligations as explained, there will be many legal issues down the road.
Usually, free government grant money is given to individuals and organizations for many different reasons.
Some of these reasons can include neighborhood improvements, state programs to retrain displaced workers, gentrification to depressed urban areas, water conservation, or even flood control projects.
Usually a grant is rewarded for a project that is important to the community overall.
In order to keep the free government grant money and avoid any possible legal ramifications, grantee organizations and individuals must meet rigid performance requirements throughout the duration of the project.
Every dollar spent must be carefully recorded and accounted for.
Furthermore, it is important that all money from the grant be spent; otherwise, it goes back to the Treasury.
If the requirements are not met in accordance to the grant agreement, penalties such as fines or even prison could ensue.