The grant funding world is in turmoil—and both funders and grantees are feeling the pressure. This session summarizes the current challenges and trends in grant funding and presents strategies to optimize pre and post award success. We highlight funding challenges specific to higher education and present strategies for university CFR officers to be competitive and grant ready for any opportunity that arises and to build cross-departmental partnerships for effective implementation and stewardship to meet increasing post award demands. This interactive session will encourage audience discussion of challenges and sharing of successful strategies.