What Was the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA)?

The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) was once a central pillar of transparency and accessibility in the landscape of U.S. federal funding. For decades, it served as the definitive directory for anyone—from local councils to nonprofit leaders—searching for information on government grants, loans, and support programs. While the CFDA is no longer in use, its legacy is deeply woven into how public funding is discovered and distributed today. Here’s a look at what the CFDA was, why it mattered, and how the modern landscape has evolved.

Understanding the CFDA: The Backbone of Federal Funding Information

The CFDA was established in 1965 to provide a comprehensive listing of U.S. federal government programs offering grants, loans, and other assistance. Each program was assigned a unique CFDA number, making it easier to search, reference, and apply for federal support. The catalog was a lifeline for:

• Local governments seeking infrastructure or disaster relief funds

• Nonprofits looking for project grants

• Educational institutions applying for research and student support

• State agencies managing complex federal partnerships

Before the era of digital search engines, the CFDA’s printed (and later online) listings were a vital tool for navigating the maze of federal assistance programs. Each listing included detailed eligibility, application instructions, and contact details, demystifying the process of seeking government support.

Why Was the CFDA Retired? A Shift to Digital Transparency

In the age of digital transformation, the limitations of the CFDA became clear. Maintaining a static catalog in an era of rapidly evolving programs, shifting policy priorities, and increasing demand for real-time data proved challenging. In 2018, the U.S. government retired the CFDA and replaced it with the Assistance Listings on SAM.gov. This change was driven by several factors:

• Real-Time Updates: Assistance Listings are updated continuously, ensuring users always access the most current program information.

• Improved Search and Navigation: The modern SAM.gov platform provides powerful filtering and search tools, helping applicants find relevant programs faster.

• Integrated Compliance: Assistance Listings tie directly into federal grant application and reporting systems, simplifying compliance and oversight.

While the term “CFDA number” may still appear in legacy documents, its official replacement— the Assistance Listing Number (ALN)—is now the standard reference for federal grants and support programs.

Legacy and Lessons: How the CFDA Shaped Modern Grantmaking

The CFDA’s influence is still felt across the public sector, even as the technology and processes evolve. Its legacy includes:

• Standardisation: The CFDA established a common language for federal program identification, a practice that continues with the ALN.

• Transparency: By making program details public and accessible, the CFDA set expectations for openness that inform today’s digital platforms.

• Capacity Building: The catalog empowered smaller organisations and rural councils to discover funding opportunities that might otherwise have been out of reach.

For Australians familiar with our own government funding directories—like Grants.gov.au—the evolution of the CFDA is a timely reminder of the importance of transparent, accessible information in public funding. As Australia continues to modernise its grant systems, the lessons of the CFDA era remain relevant: clarity, ease of navigation, and real-time updates are essential for fair access to government support.

What’s Next for Grant Seekers?

In 2025, digital platforms like SAM.gov in the US and Grants.gov.au in Australia offer intuitive, real-time access to a wide range of government grants and assistance programs. Key trends shaping the future include:

• AI-Powered Search: Smarter algorithms are helping applicants match with the right programs based on eligibility, location, and needs.

• Mobile Accessibility: More platforms are optimised for mobile devices, making it easier for community groups and individuals to apply on the go.

• Enhanced Transparency: Open data standards are making grant outcomes and spending more visible, building public trust.

While the CFDA may be gone, its spirit lives on in these modern tools—ensuring that government support remains accessible to all who need it.