Grant News

By Meghan Jacobsen, Grants Development Associate

The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) is the only federal grant program dedicated to supporting both physical and cybersecurity enhancements for nonprofit organizations. Administered by FEMA, NSGP operates as a pass-through grant: federal funds are awarded to states, and each state’s administering agency (SAA) is responsible for managing the application and award process. As a result, although the program is federally funded, nonprofits apply directly through their state’s SAA, and application deadlines vary by state.

NSGP Priorities and Allowable Costs

NSGP supports nonprofits that face elevated risks of foreign or domestic terrorist attacks due to their mission, beliefs, or ideology. Funding priorities are reviewed and updated annually based on the national risk profile. For fiscal year 2025, the priorities include:

• Enhancing the protection of soft targets/crowded places.
• Supporting Homeland Security Task Forces and Fusion Centers
• Enhancing Cybersecurity
• Enhancing Election Security
• Supporting Border Crisis Response and Enforcement
  
  

NSGP will fund an array of physical and cyber security needs including:

• Security technology and equipment
• Contracted security personnel
• Planning
• Training and exercises

See below for examples of allowable equipment and technology:

Who Typically Benefits from NSGP Funding?

Houses of worship and private educational institutions (K–12 and higher education) make up the largest share of NSGP recipients. However, the program is also open to healthcare organizations, museums, nonprofit human service agencies, and community-based organizations. Recipient profiles vary by state; below is a sample breakdown across 5 different states illustrating how awards are distributed across different types of nonprofits.

Although this graph reflects only a small sample of states, it clearly shows that houses of worship are the predominant recipients of NSGP funding—an expected trend given the program’s focus on anti-terrorism. Beyond faith-based institutions, however, award patterns vary by state. In some states, hospitals and healthcare organizations receive a larger share of funding; in others, private schools or community and human service organizations represent more of the recipients.

When it comes to grants, knowledge is power. Analyzing a funder’s award history provides important insights into their priorities and helps you strengthen your strategy. For example, the data above indicates that museums seldom receive NSGP awards. This doesn’t mean museums shouldn’t apply, but it does signal the need to demonstrate the organization’s heightened risk of a terrorist attack clearly and convincingly.

NSGP remains the only federal funding resource for mitigating risk and strengthening security across the nonprofit sector, making it a very popular program. Analyzing award trends, understanding state-level nuances, and aligning with annual funding priorities are essential steps for applicants seeking to maximize their competitiveness. As the program continues to evolve, staying informed and being prepared will be key to securing support for your organization’s security needs.