Non-Profit Security Grant

Applications must be submitted through the EDGAR (Electronic Database for Grant Application & Reporting) system. You will use this link to register in EDGAR and fill out the grant application.

Organizations that are eligible to apply for the nonprofit grant must be a 501(c)(3) and include houses of worship, non-governmental (private, non-profit) educational facilities, medical facilities, camps, senior centers, shelters/crisis centers, event venues, and community/social service organizations, so long as they are nonprofits. A valid Unique Entity ID (UEI) from sam.gov will be required before FEMA will finalize awards.

The following types of entities/organizations are not eligible to apply for this grant: utility companies, for-profit hospitals, volunteer fire departments, for-profit transportation providers, homeowner associations, or any governmental entity.

Projects must have a nexus to Homeland Security providing protection against terrorism threats.

The goal of this grant program is to provide funding for physical and cybersecurity improvements, in a supplemental not supplanting fashion, to nonprofit organizations that are high risk of a terrorist or other extremist attack. In South Dakota, non-profit organizations may apply for up to $200,000 per project location, with a maximum of three project sites per applicant.

Examples of allowable projects for non-profit organizations are below:

• Physical security enhancements such as access control at entrances, panic buttons, intrusion detectors, security lighting, warning signs,
  • Fire alarm systems are allowable as long as it’s tied into the access control systems.
• Security cameras (CCTV)
• Surveillance Systems (Software and AI must be paid for by the agency, not this grant)
• Security screening equipment for people and baggage such as metal detectors
• Perimeter access control such as fencing, gates, barriers, etc.
• Active shooter training
• Security training for employees
• Public awareness/preparedness campaigns
• Response exercises
• Development of security plans and protocols, emergency contingency plans, and evacuation/shelter in place plans.

Submit the following items listed below in EDGAR IGX:

1. Proof of Non-Profit 501(c)3 status Submit a copy of the organization 501(c)3 determination letter with the following exceptions: churches, mosques, and synagogues are considered automatically exempt if they meet the requirements of IRS section 501(c)3; therefore, they are not required to submit a determination letter. 

2. Mission Statement Include a short, concise Mission Statement of the organization on official letterhead, stating the purpose of the organization (who, what, and why), and any policies or practices that may elevate the organization’s risk of a terrorist attack. 

3. Vulnerability/Risk Assessment Submit a vulnerability/risk assessment specific to the location/facility for which the nonprofit organization is applying. The physical address must be notated on the risk assessment. You can submit a risk assessment conducted by law enforcement, an independent agency specializing in risk assessments, an emergency manager, or a US Department of Homeland Security representative. This link provides a self-assessment survey; although it’s called “Faith Based/Houses of Worship”, it can be used for all non-profit agencies.  

4. Investment Justification (IJ) The IJ is the application narrative form used for explaining your proposed projects. Projects must be for the location(s) that the nonprofit occupies and owns at the time of the application. Projects must be clearly linked to the vulnerability/risk assessment. This is the only document that FEMA will receive to determine awards. It’s critical to answer all questions clear and concise. 

5. Quotes are required and must be submitted with the application. Projects of $0.00-$3,999: One Quote;  Projects of $4,000-$49,999: Three Quotes; Projects of $50,000 or higher: competitive bids. You can find more details on the Quotes application page.

Conflict of Interest rules apply to all phases of the grant.

To apply for a Homeland Security grant, read through the application instructions (this document will be moved to your Downloads folder when you click on the link) and apply online.

Questions? Contact the SD Office of Homeland Security by calling (605) 773-3450.