2025 Homeland Security Non-Profit Grant

Applications must be submitted through the EDGAR (Electronic Database for Grant Application & Reporting) system. You will use the following link to register in EDGAR and fill out the grant application:  https://sddpsigx.intelligrants.com/.

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 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, three projects maximum per applicant.

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.

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 their awards. We encourage you to work with sam.gov now to make sure your UEI is not expired.

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

• Physical security enhancements such as access control at entrances, panic buttons, intrusion detectors, fire protection, security lighting, warning signs
• 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.

You will need to upload the following items into your application:

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 following link provides a self-assessment survey; although it’s called “Faith Based/Houses of Worship”, it can be used for all non-profit agencies. https://www.cisa.gov/houses-worship-security-self-assessment If you prefer, you can submit a risk assessment performed by law enforcement, an independent agency specializing in risk assessments, an emergency manager, or a US Department of Homeland Security representative.
   
   
4. Investment Justification (IJ) (found in EDGAR IGX) The IJ is the application narrative form used to explain your proposed projects. Projects must be for the locations that the nonprofit occupies and owns at the time of application. Projects must be clearly linked to the vulnerability/risk assessment.
   
   
5. Quotes are required and must be submitted with the application. Projects 0.00-$3,999 One Quote Projects $4,000-over Three Quotes
   
   
   

For more information please visit FEMA Nonprofit Security Grant Program Website and the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) FY2025 Nonprofit Security Grant Program Frequently Asked Questions

For more information, please call 605-773-3450
You may also email Director Scott Rechtenbaugh or Kristina Healey

For a .pdf containing this information, please click here (the document will be moved to your Download folder; please look for it there).