I’m thrilled to share a personal and professional milestone: I’ve officially earned the Certified Grants Management Specialist (CGMS) credential through the National Grants Management Association (NGMA)! This achievement reflects both my commitment to excellence in grants management and my dedication to serving clients through my work at GrantCraft Consulting.
This has been a rewarding journey—one that challenged me to deepen my expertise and reflect on how far I’ve come in my career. It also marks an exciting step forward for GrantCraft, as it strengthens the quality and breadth of the services we provide.
The Journey to Certification
In March 2024, I attended NGMA’s Grants Management Body of Knowledge (GMBoK) training event. The training was an excellent introduction to the foundational principles of grants management, offering a broad overview of this fascinating field. While the GMBoK training provided a strong foundation, the CGMS exam took things to a whole new level.
To prepare, I dove headfirst into the Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200), immersing myself in the intricate details that underpin federal grants management. This level of detail was second nature in many ways—my work at the Nebraska DHHS Division of Public Health involves translating complex regulations into practical advice for staff, so I was used to working through highly technical material. Even so, the exam required me to push my knowledge further.
On test day, I traveled to the University of Nebraska Omaha’s testing center for the 3-hour, proctored exam. With 150 multiple-choice questions, it was rigorous and mentally taxing, requiring every ounce of focus. I walked out exhausted but hopeful—and I’m proud to say that I passed!
What Is the CGMS Credential?
The Certified Grants Management Specialist (CGMS) credential is a mark of excellence in the grants management field. It demonstrates master-level expertise across the entire lifecycle of grants management, from pre-award through post-award and closeout, to audits and compliance.
Earning the credential is no small feat. The exam challenges professionals to demonstrate mastery of federal regulations, financial management, and compliance. To qualify, candidates need significant hands-on experience in grants management, and passing the rigorous exam is a testament to both knowledge and real-world expertise.
The CGMS is recognized across sectors—including government, nonprofits, and academia—as a symbol of commitment to the highest professional standards in grants management. For me, it’s not just a personal achievement but a milestone that strengthens the work I do at GrantCraft.
Why This Matters
Achieving the CGMS credential is about more than personal growth—it’s about enhancing the value GrantCraft provides to clients. My clients rely on me to guide them through the complexities of grants management, whether that means navigating the intricate requirements of federal grants, ensuring compliance with Uniform Guidance, or optimizing processes for long-term success.
This certification allows me to offer even greater confidence and expertise in areas like SBIR/STTR programs and state-level grant management. With the CGMS, I can continue to bridge my dual focus—helping researchers secure funding and managing large federal grants as a pass-through entity at the state level.
What’s Next?
The CGMS credential isn’t just a badge—it’s a commitment to lifelong learning and professional growth. To maintain my certification, I’ll complete 60 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits every three years, ensuring I stay at the forefront of grants management practices.
A big part of that journey starts this March, when I’ll attend the Annual Grants Training (AGT) event—the largest grants management-focused training event in the nation. AGT is a three-day gathering of professionals from across sectors, offering keynote speakers, plenary panels, over 50 breakout sessions, and an expo hall showcasing NGMA’s Certified Annual Partners Program (CAPP).
I’m particularly excited to join breakout sessions on compliance strategies and connect with other professionals who share my passion for innovation in grants management. I see this even as an annual opportunity to gain fresh insights, expand my network, and bring new ideas back to GrantCraft.
Looking ahead, I’m committed to continuing to grow GrantCraft by exploring innovative ways to streamline grants management processes for clients. Whether I’m navigating the complexities of SBIR/STTR programs, guiding organizations through the federal grants lifecycle, or working to ensure compliance and efficiency, my focus is on making grants management easier and more effective for my clients.
If your organization is navigating federal grants, SBIR/STTR programs, or any aspect of the grants management lifecycle, let’s connect. At GrantCraft Consulting, we’re passionate about helping organizations achieve success in their grant projects while simplifying the process. Let’s work together to turn your next project into a milestone worth celebrating!