Programs We Know Inside + Out
We bring deep hands-on experience with a wide range of federal programs, equipping us to support compliance, performance, and growth. From human services and community redevelopment to transportation and emergency preparedness, we understand the operational and regulatory nuances that matter.
Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG)
Helping communities manage homelessness prevention and rapid rehousing with compliance-focused support.
Brownfield Program (EPA)
Providing expert guidance on environmental assessment and redevelopment funding compliance.
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
Expertise in planning, implementation, and reporting for measurable community impact.
Federal Transit Cluster
(FTA)
Specialized support for transit capital and operational funding with a focus on cost principles and program integrity.
Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP)
Supporting emergency preparedness with expert guidance on planning, eligibility, and federal compliance.
Urban and Community Forestry (USDA)
Providing support for forestry initiatives and equitable tree canopy investments through compliance grant management.
Standards That Guide Our Work
Professional Standards
We follow recognized internal auditing and compliance standards to ensure accountability, transparency, and high quality outcomes. At DC Smith Advisory, we align our services with professional standards that ensure integrity, objectivity, and operational excellence. Our work is grounded in the International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) issued by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA), which guides internal audit performance and ethical conduct. We adhere to the Generally Accepted Government Auditing Standards (GAGAS), commonly referred to as the Yellow Book, established by the U.S. Government Accountability Office. These frameworks help ensure that our risk assessments and compliance evaluations are conducted with consistency, rigor, and reliability. To strengthen internal control environments, we integrate guidance from the Standards for Internal Control in the Federal Government (Green Book), which aligns with the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) framework. These standards provide a structured approach to risk management, governance, and control processes. We also reference OMB Circular A-123, which outlines federal requirements for assessing, documenting, and reporting on internal control over financial reporting. Together, these frameworks guide how we assess risk, improve operations, and deliver value, helping our clients build systems of control that are sustainable, compliant, and performance-driven.
Grant Regulations
We bring deep knowledge of federal grant regulations, including 2 CFR 200 and agency-specific rules, to ensure full compliance and confident administration. DC Smith Advisory applies a detailed understanding of federal grant regulations to help organizations navigate the complex compliance landscape with clarity and precision. Central to our expertise is Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (2 CFR), which outlines the uniform administrative requirements, cost principles, and audit requirements for federal awards. We go beyond surface-level guidance to interpret Subtitle A, which includes key sections such as: Part 25 – Universal Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM) Part 170 – Reporting Subaward and Executive Compensation Part 180 – OMB Guidelines to Agencies on Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension These foundational rules are paired with 2 CFR Part 200 (Uniform Guidance), which governs virtually all aspects of federal grant management, from pre-award requirements and financial management to procurement, performance, and closeout. Recognizing that each federal agency may implement the Uniform Guidance with tailored provisions, we also interpret and apply agency-specific regulations (e.g., 2 CFR 200 as adopted by the Department of Energy at 2 CFR 910 or by the Department of Education at 2 CFR Part 3474). Our experience spans a wide range of federal agencies, ensuring that our clients remain aligned with both general and agency-specific grant rules. This regulatory fluency supports our clients in designing compliant systems, preparing for audits, and managing risk across the full grant lifecycle.
Industry Best Practice
Beyond regulatory compliance, we incorporate proven best practices from leading professional associations to build resilient, high-performing organizations. Our methodologies reflect guidance from the Association of Government Accountants (AGA), the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA), and the National Grants Management Association (NGMA). These sources offer practical tools, thought leadership, and ethical standards that inform everything from internal controls to performance reporting. Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Best Practices - "GFOA Best Practices identify specific policies and procedures that contribute to improved government management. They aim to promote and facilitate positive change or recognize excellence rather than merely to codify current accepted practice." Association of Government Accountants (AGA) Intergov - "Intergov features tools that officials from any level of government can use to improve program performance and enhance accountability. These tools can be used to prevent fraud, reduce improper payments, improve outcomes, mitigate risk and enhance collaboration." National Grants Management Association (NGMA) Blog - Articles from NGMA members and Corporate Alliance Partnership Program (CAPP) partners provide valuable advice, best practices, and tips on key grants management issues.