CoC Grant Renewals

The Continuum of Care (CoC) grant renewal process is essential for maintaining funding and support for programs that aim to end homelessness. Here is a broad step-by-step overview of the process:

Before starting, you'll need to:

1. create an e-snaps user account. 

2. have your newly created account linked to the agency by an e-snaps agency admin (currently Eric and Jason)

Step 1: Preparation and Planning

1. Review the NOFO (Notice of Funding Opportunity):

   • Carefully review the NOFA released by HUD, which outlines the requirements, deadlines, and priorities for the grant renewal process.

2. Gather Required Documentation:

   • Collect all necessary documents, including previous grant agreements, performance data, financial records, and project descriptions.

3. Assess Project Performance:

   • Evaluate the performance of each project using the Annual Performance Report (APR) and other relevant metrics. Identify any areas needing improvement.

4. Engage Stakeholders:

   • Involve key stakeholders, including project sponsors, CoC board members, and other community partners, in the planning process to ensure alignment with community needs and priorities.

Step 2: Conduct the Renewal Process

1. Update Project Applications:

   • Update each project application in e-snaps, HUD's online grant management system. Ensure all information is accurate and reflects the project's current status and performance.

2. Review and Approve Applications:

   • The CoC board or designated review committee should review each application for completeness and compliance with HUD requirements. Provide feedback and request revisions if necessary.

3. Rank and Tier Projects:

   • Rank and tier the projects based on HUD's scoring criteria, local priorities, and project performance. Ensure transparency and fairness in the ranking process.

Step 3: Submission to HUD

1. Consolidate the CoC Application:

   • Prepare the CoC consolidated application, which includes the community's strategic plan to end homelessness, project ranking, and individual project applications.

2. Submit the Application in e-snaps:

   • Ensure all parts of the consolidated application are completed and submitted through e-snaps by the deadline specified in the NOFA.

Step 4: Post-Submission Activities

1. Address HUD Feedback:

   • If HUD requests additional information or corrections, respond promptly and accurately to ensure the application remains eligible for funding.

2. Monitor Award Announcements:

   • Once HUD announces the awards, review the funding decisions and ensure all projects understand their funding status and any conditions attached to their grants.

Step 5: Implementation and Compliance

1. Execute Grant Agreements:

   • Work with HUD to execute grant agreements for the renewed projects, ensuring all terms and conditions are understood and accepted.

2. Maintain Compliance:

   • Continuously monitor project performance and compliance with HUD regulations throughout the grant period. Prepare for annual reviews and audits.

3. Prepare for Next Cycle:

   • Use the insights gained from the current renewal process to improve and streamline the process for the next funding cycle. Identify areas for improvement and start planning early.