# Strategic Spending Executive Seminar: Intelligent Funds Management in Challenging Times Course (Self-Paced)

Canonical URL: <https://www.graduateschool.edu/courses/strategic-spending-executive-seminar-intelligent-funds-management-in-challenging-times-course-self-paced>

## Overview

This one-day seminar is essential for Executives and Resource Managers to intelligently direct the best use of federal money when decisions are the toughest and funding challenges are the greatest. Federal agencies endure times when funds are scarce, including at year-end; during continuing resolutions; and when programs, projects, and activities run into technical, management or financial difficulties. How do we predict, prevent, prepare, and decide during these tough times? What legal alternatives and actions are available to offer the “best” outcomes? This course explores strategic approaches to federal financial management challenges; suggestions to prevent financial crises (including personal liability), and to mitigate the impact of financial crises. Strategic alternatives and specific approaches are suggested through the financial cycle to the final disbursement of funds.

## What you'll learn

- Gain a practical understanding of the legal framework governing federal spending.
- Prepare and execute a plan before, during, and after a Continuing Resolution.
- Plan and execute maximum spending alternatives and opportunities with Year-End funds.
- Recognize the limitations and adjustments necessary to maintain priorities and performance objectives.
- Avoid actions for which there are severe penalties and the red flags of possible violations.

## Prerequisites

Students must complete Federal Appropriations Law (FINC7100) before enrolling in this course.

## Curriculum

#### Module 1: The Size and Scope of the U.S. Budget – Why Our Path is “Unsustainable”

- Identify key components of the national debt and annual deficit.
- Distinguish between mandatory and discretionary spending.
- Discuss challenges posed by major federal programs and interest on debt.
- Explore fiscal sustainability and economic implications of deficit spending.

#### Module 2: How Money Works – The Federal Budget Cycle

- Examine the full lifecycle of federal budget formulation and execution.
- Understand appropriations, apportionments, and obligations.
- Review legal constraints and audit considerations during budget execution.
- Recognize procurement authorities and budgetary compliance rules.

#### Module 3: The Lifecycle of Federal Financial Transactions – How We Spend Money

- Trace transactions from appropriation to final Treasury outlay.
- Identify key internal controls and financial checkpoints.
- Understand the importance of managing unliquidated obligations (ULOs).
- Apply proactive techniques for accurate transaction lifecycle oversight.

#### Module 4: Year-End Spending – Between a Falling Rock and a Hard Place

- Navigate the legal framework for year-end spending, including the ADA and BNR rules.
- Avoid common mistakes during fiscal closeout periods.
- Understand obligations, procurement rules, and time-sensitive fiscal constraints.
- Leverage best practices for compliant, efficient year-end financial management.

#### Module 5: What To Do When Things Go WROGN

- Prepare for financial crises such as funding cuts, recissions, and shutdowns.
- Review Anti-Deficiency Act consequences and liability risks.
- Develop a spending plan and tiered priorities to safeguard mission-essential activities.
- Explore tactical responses to financial management disruptions.

#### Module 6: Controlled Chaos

- Execute a strategic reduction in expenditures when facing unavoidable budget cuts.
- Manage burn rates, obligations, and contingency funds under pressure.
- Coordinate key roles and teams to maintain continuity during austerity periods.
- Prioritize essential personnel, contracts, and resources for sustainability.

#### Module 7: Down to Zero

- Plan and execute a full agency or program shutdown due to lapse or termination.
- Comply with furlough rules and shutdown furlough guidance from OPM.
- Secure government assets, finalize fiscal records, and manage RIF processes.
- Minimize risk while preparing for potential funding restoration or permanent closure.

#### Module 8: Communications – Interactions and Restrictions on Financial Information

- Understand statutory and regulatory restrictions on financial communications.
- Navigate communication channels with Congress, OMB, and auditors appropriately.
- Avoid lobbying violations and unauthorized information disclosures.
- Protect PII and classified information while maintaining transparency and accuracy.

## Pricing

**Tuition:** $579