Don't forget that all organizations that apply for federal grants must have a DUNS number on their applications beginning last Wednesday, October 1. If you do not have a DUNS number see our DUNS Number Fact Sheet. OMB Watch and the National Council of Nonprofit Associations wrote to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) two weeks ago asking them to delay implementation of the DUNS number requirement. Many nonprofits have called us for information, indicating significant confusion and a number of unanswered questions. Unfortunately, OMB responded negatively to the request. However, in an attempt to clear up the confusion OMB will be developing a "Frequently Asked Questions" sheet that is to be posted on the OMB and Grants.gov web sites. Federal grant applications without a DUNS numbers will not be considered complete. Agencies do not have the power to grant exemptions, all requests for exemptions must be directed to OMB. The contact person at OMB who is leading this effort is Sandra Swab, 202/395-5642, sswab@omb.eop.gov. The DUNS number is only one of the many changes occurring to the federal grants process. OMB Watch can provide training on grant streamlining and grant rules related to advocacy activities at nonprofit conferences or gatherings. We will not charge an honorarium, but would need to have travel costs covered. If interested, contact Kay Guinane at kguinane@ombwatch.org. So ready or not, here is the DUNS requirement- PLEASE DISTRIBUTE THIS INFORMATION WIDELY.