Nonprofit Security Grant Program

Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS) Funding Support for Security at Not-for-Profit Entities

Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS) administers the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Not-for-Profit Security Grant Program (NSGP) for the state of Georgia. The NSGP is a crucial initiative aimed at strengthening the security and resilience of nonprofit organizations that may be at a higher risk of violent acts. Through this grant program and our security assessment programs, GEMA/HS empowers eligible nonprofit organizations to enhance their protective measures and safeguard the communities they serve.

Program Objectives

The primary objective of GEMA/HS’s grant strategy is to provide financial assistance to eligible nonprofit organizations to improve their physical security infrastructure and implement security enhancements. The program addresses potential vulnerabilities and protects against potential acts of terrorism and other acts of violence, ensuring that nonprofits can continue to fulfill their vital missions while fostering safe environments for their members, employees, and the public.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the NSGP, nonprofit organizations must meet specific requirements. Firstly, they must be classified as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization under the Internal Revenue Code. Secondly, applicants must be determined by the DHS and the GEMA/HS to be at a high-security risk based on their mission, activities, or location.

Eligible nonprofit organizations include, but are not limited to:

  • Religious institutions (e.g., churches, synagogues, mosques, temples)
  • Schools and educational institutions
  • Community centers
  • Hospitals and healthcare facilities
  • Cultural centers and museums
  • Homeless shelters and social service providers
  • Organizations that provide critical services to the community

Applying for the NSGP

The application process for the NSGP is competitive and requires careful preparation. Organizations seeking to apply should closely follow the guidelines provided by GEMA/HS and DHS when the grant opportunity is announced. The application involves several key steps:

  • Preparing the Application: Before initiating the formal application process, organizations should gather all necessary documentation, including proof of tax-exempt status, organizational information, and details regarding the proposed security enhancements.
  • Risk Assessment: Applicants are required to conduct a risk assessment that evaluates their vulnerability to potential terrorist threats or violent attacks. This assessment forms a critical component of the application, providing GEMA/HD and DHS with a clear understanding of the organization's security needs.
  • Project Proposal: The NSGP application necessitates a well-structured and comprehensive project proposal. This proposal should outline the specific security measures the organization intends to implement, along with their estimated costs. Funds available are determined each year.
  • Cost-Benefit Analysis: Organizations must demonstrate that the proposed security enhancements represent a cost-effective investment concerning the potential risk reduction.
  • Collaboration: Applicants may collaborate with local law enforcement agencies, emergency responders, and community stakeholders to bolster their application and foster a sense of community engagement in security efforts.

Next Funding Cycle

GEMA/HS typically announces the opening of the NSGP application period and provides details regarding the funding cycle in February of each year. GEMA/HS receives all NSGP grant applications and then reviews, scores, ranks, and submits Georgia’s applications to DHS for final award decisions. Award announcements are generally made in October of each year.   

To stay informed about the upcoming funding cycle, interested organizations should frequently visit the DHS and GEMA/HS websites, subscribe to relevant newsletters, and follow the official social media channels of GEMA/HS and DHS. Additionally, it is advisable to join relevant industry associations or networks that may share updates and information about security-related grant opportunities.

Conclusion

The GEMA/HS Not-for-Profit Security Grant Program plays a vital role in bolstering the security and resilience of nonprofit organizations in Georgia. By providing financial assistance to eligible nonprofits, the NSGP empowers these organizations to implement critical security measures, safeguarding their members, assets, and the communities they serve. Through a competitive application process, eligible nonprofits can access the funding required to mitigate risks and prepare for potential threats. By continually monitoring updates from the GEMA/HS, eligible organizations can ensure they are well-prepared for the next funding cycle and take significant steps toward enhancing their security capabilities.

NOTE: Applications will only be accepted on-line via the Georgia EM Grants Manager System at ga.emgrants.com beginning March 9, 2023.

Details

The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number: 97.008

CFDA Title: Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP)

Key Dates

The Application period opens March 9, 2023.

All applications for this grant must be received by the deadline, April 16, 2023 to be considered.

GEMA/HS expects notification of award no later than September 30, 2023.

General projected state-level period of performance (POP) is October 1, 2023 – September 30, 2026.

 

 

Last updated: 9/15/2023