Federal Grant Programs Target Nonprofit Security Enhancements
Nonprofit organizations face a May 24, 2024 application deadline to secure federal funding for physical and cyber security upgrades through the United States Department of Homeland Security and Federal Emergency Management Agency Nonprofit Security Grant Program, azdohs.gov reported. The program provides up to $150,000 per site for eligible organizations at high risk of terrorist or extremist attacks, with sub-applicants able to request funding for up to three sites for a total maximum of $450,000.
While the Arizona Department of Homeland Security outlines specific state-level submission portals and local vulnerability assessment requirements for its applicants, federal oversight involves broader national webinars managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Grant Programs Directorate, according to the sources. The federal agency invites organizations to virtual onboarding sessions to learn how to apply. However, the sources note that final federal funding information may experience delays depending on the exact timing of congressional appropriations bills.
Phoenix Area Gets Urban Funding While Other Regions Use State Grants
The grant structure divides available dollars into two distinct funding streams for FFY 2024. The Nonprofit Security Grant Program – Urban Area targets facilities located within designated Urban Area Security Initiative regions. In Arizona, that designation applies exclusively to the Phoenix metropolitan area, which primarily covers Maricopa County. Meanwhile, the Nonprofit Security Grant Program – State allocates funds for organizations operating outside that specific urban footprint.
Applicants cannot apply for both grant types for the exact same site, and submissions sent to the incorrect program face immediate disqualification. The azdohs.gov website specifies that the funding operates strictly as a reimbursement grant. Award recipients must purchase and fully pay for all approved security enhancements within the designated state performance period before submitting paperwork to get their money back.
Applicants Must Submit Formal Vulnerability Assessments
Every organization applying for the security funding must base its request on a formal vulnerability assessment submitted alongside its application package. Arizona applicants can request these evaluations through local law enforcement or via the Arizona Counter Terrorism Information Center by emailing completed request forms to cikr@azdps.gov. Alternatively, applicants can utilize the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency Self-Assessment, which provides structured digital questionnaires initially designed for houses of worship but adaptable for any nonprofit entity.
Only authorized personnel can submit the final paperwork. Current employees, staff members, or official organizational leadership must handle the submission, as outside consultants and hired contractors are strictly barred from acting as the authorized representative. Completed Investment Justification applications, vulnerability documents, and supplemental forms must reach cbowen@azdohs.gov by the 5:00 p.m. deadline on May 24, 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nonprofit Security Grants
What happens if an organization misses the application deadline?
Because the application period for the 2024 grant cycle closed on May 24, 2024, organizations must wait for future funding announcements, which typically open during the spring months of subsequent years, according to azdohs.gov.
Can multiple sites receive maximum funding?
Sub-applicants with multiple locations may apply for up to $150,000 per site for a maximum of three sites, totaling $450,000, provided each location includes a unique vulnerability and risk assessment, azdohs.gov reports.
Where should webinar participants look for login details?
After registering through the Federal Emergency Management Agency platform, participants receive a calendar invitation via email, though the sources advise checking junk and spam folders because delivery can take time.
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