# Audit Prep Workshop for Federal Grants Course Canonical URL: ## Overview Audit Prep Workshop for Federal Grants is a hands-on, recipient-focused course that prepares organizations to navigate federal audits confidently and defensibly. The course focuses on what auditors review, how audit findings are developed, and how recipients can prepare records, systems, and staff to support a smooth audit process. Participants learn how to assess audit risk, organize documentation, respond to auditor requests, and avoid common errors that lead to findings and questioned costs. Through applied exercises and realistic scenarios, participants strengthen their ability to demonstrate compliance, protect federal funding, and respond effectively to audit results. ## What you'll learn - Explain the purpose and scope of federal audits affecting grant recipients - Identify audit standards and requirements applicable to federal awards - Assess organizational readiness for audit - Organize financial, programmatic, and compliance documentation - Respond effectively to auditor requests and inquiries - Identify common audit findings and their root causes - Support auditors while protecting organizational interests - Develop corrective action plans that address audit findings - Track and document corrective actions and follow-up - Demonstrate audit readiness as part of ongoing grant management ## Curriculum #### Module 1: Overview of Federal Audits and Oversight - Identify types of audits affecting grant recipients. - Understand audit scope and auditor authority. - Recognize the role of pass-through entities. #### Module 2: Audit Standards and Regulatory Requirements - Identify relevant audit standards and requirements. - Understand Single Audit fundamentals. - Recognize audit timelines and thresholds. #### Module 3: Internal Controls and Audit Risk - Identify internal controls auditors assess. - Link control weaknesses to audit findings. - Assess audit risk areas. #### Module 4: Financial Records and Cost Documentation - Prepare documentation supporting allowable costs. - Organize financial records for audit review. - Avoid common documentation gaps. #### Module 5: Programmatic and Performance Documentation - Prepare programmatic records auditors review. - Align performance reporting with award terms. - Identify program documentation weaknesses. #### Module 6: Managing the Audit Process - Coordinate audit logistics and staff roles. - Respond to auditor inquiries effectively. - Manage audit communications professionally. #### Module 7: Understanding Audit Findings and Questioned Costs - Understand how audit findings are developed. - Distinguish findings from observations. - Analyze root causes of findings. #### Module 8: Developing Corrective Action Plans - Draft effective corrective action plans. - Address root causes and prevent recurrence. - Assign responsibility and timelines. #### Module 9: Post-Audit Follow-Up and Monitoring - Track corrective action implementation. - Respond to follow-up requests. - Maintain documentation of resolution. ## Schedule - Jul 20, 2026 – Jul 21, 2026 — Live Online - Sep 22, 2026 – Sep 23, 2026 — Live Online - Dec 17, 2026 – Dec 18, 2026 — Live Online ## Instructors ### Seitu Stephens, J.D. — Instructor Seitu I. Stephens, J.D., is a nationally recognized trainer and consultant in federal grants management, compliance, and program oversight. With more than two decades of experience working with federal, state, territorial, and nonprofit organizations, he specializes in helping agencies and grant recipients design, manage, and monitor federally funded programs in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (2 CFR 200). Mr. Stephens has trained hundreds of grant professionals across government agencies, community-based organizations, and institutions of higher education. His instruction focuses on practical strategies for managing federal awards, structuring and monitoring subawards, ensuring financial accountability, preparing for audits, and strengthening internal controls to protect federal funds and program outcomes. He has developed and delivered numerous professional development courses on topics including grant program design, risk assessment, subrecipient monitoring, procurement under federal awards, and audit preparation. His courses combine regulatory expertise with real-world case studies that help participants translate complex federal requirements into effective operational practices. In addition to his training work, Mr. Stephens advises organizations on strengthening grant management systems, improving compliance frameworks, and building sustainable partnerships between government agencies and community-based organizations. Mr. Stephens holds a Juris Doctor degree and is widely respected for his engaging instructional style and his ability to make complex federal grant regulations clear, practical, and actionable for practitioners. ## Pricing **Tuition:** $1050