How Federal Agencies Can Navigate Shifting Timelines

Federal agencies have long relied on predictable cycles of funding and grant allocation to plan their modernization efforts. But in recent years — and especially as Fiscal Year 2026 (FY260) gets underway — those timelines have become increasingly uncertain. Continuing resolutions, evolving policy priorities and tighter language restrictions in grant applications have created a moving target for agencies trying to secure and execute their IT funding.

For many, the challenge isn’t just accessing funding — it’s timing it right. That’s where CDW Government serves as a trusted partner, helping federal organizations anticipate, adapt and maximize the impact of their technology funding.

Over the past year, federal agencies have seen funding delays and freezes ripple through the system. For instance, some formula grants — traditionally reliable for state and emergency management programs — were temporarily paused to reassess population metrics or realign priorities. These hold-ups cascade across departments, delaying not only disbursements but also project start dates and procurement cycles.

As the federal government moves into FY26, the final year for several four-year grant cycles established under earlier infrastructure and modernization initiatives, agencies must act quickly to capitalize on remaining allocations while preparing for new directives that will define FY27 and beyond.

CDW Government continuously tracks these shifts and provides agencies with insights into which grants, allocations and priorities are active, delayed or nearing expiration. This awareness allows organizations to pivot, refreshing project scopes or identifying alternate funding sources before opportunities close.

Each fiscal year begins with a new set of focus areas. According to the Federal CIO Council’s 2026 priorities, agencies are expected to make measurable progress toward:

• IPv6 adoption and network modernization to enhance scalability and resilience.
• Cybersecurity maturity and zero-trust implementation across systems and supply chains.
• Artificial intelligence (AI) adoption to strengthen decision-making, automate processes and improve service delivery.
• Cloud optimization and interoperability to reduce costs and improve data sharing.

These priorities are reshaping how federal IT leaders plan their funding strategies. Projects that align with these initiatives — particularly around AI, cybersecurity and digital modernization — are increasingly viewed as high-value investments. Conversely, areas once heavily funded, such as environmental resilience and infrastructure readiness, may receive less emphasis under updated policy guidance.

Agencies that once focused on climate resilience or physical infrastructure may now need to reframe proposals to incorporate digital modernization goals. For example, a grant that once centered on “environmental preparedness” might now integrate AI-enabled risk modeling or secure cloud analytics, aligning with CIO and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) guidance while increasing the likelihood of approval.

The federal funding process can be complex and time-sensitive, especially when fiscal deadlines and continuing resolutions shift mid-year. CDW Government’s dedicated funding specialists and account teams help agencies stay ahead through three layers of support:

1. Early Awareness and Intelligence
   CDW Government monitors federal funding announcements, grant releases and legislative developments, sharing proactive updates with account teams and customers. This ensures agencies remain aware of shifting deadlines, eligibility changes and emerging opportunities long before they appear in public channels.
   
   
2. Strategic Alignment and Readiness
   When new funding becomes available, agencies need to align project goals with current government priorities. Teams work closely with agency representatives to map what’s changing from FY25 to FY26, identifying new language requirements and strategic emphasis areas. From compliance language to technical focus, this insight helps prevent disqualifications and delays.
   
   
3. Technical and Procurement Expertise
   Once funding is approved, CDW Government’s engineers and procurement specialists support implementation — helping agencies deploy secure networking, hybrid cloud and AI-driven data solutions. CDW Government ensures modernization projects not only meet federal compliance goals but also deliver measurable mission outcomes.

Because the federal fiscal year begins every October 1, FY26 marks a pivotal moment for agencies to finalize projects and plan future investments. Many programs will sunset by late summer 2026, meaning that decisions made in the first and second quarters of the fiscal year will determine whether funds are secured and projects stay on track.

Agencies that prepare early by assessing their needs, updating project language and understanding which CIO priorities are rising will be best positioned to take advantage of remaining funds before programs reset.

As FY26 unfolds, the need for adaptable, insight-driven funding strategies has never been greater. CDW Government stands ready to help partners navigate evolving timelines.

Whether your agency is pursuing AI innovation, cybersecurity advancement or IPv6 modernization, CDW Government experts can help you stay compliant, competitive and ready to act when opportunities arise.

The fiscal calendar may keep changing, but with the right partner, your agency doesn’t have to fall behind.