Resources
The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP)
The NSGP is a FEMA-administered federal grant that provides up to $200,000 per location for physical security upgrades at houses of worship and other 501(c)(3) nonprofits. If your organization faces a credible threat, this program can fund the technology and infrastructure you need to protect your community.
Who Is Eligible?
The NSGP is open to tax-exempt organizations registered as 501(c)(3) under the IRS. First-time applicants receive a competitive scoring advantage.
Eligible Organizations
- Houses of worship (churches, mosques, synagogues, temples)
- Private & parochial schools
- Community centers & shelters
- Museums, camps, and event venues
- Medical & science facilities
Not Eligible
- For-profit businesses
- Government entities
- Public schools
- Labor unions
Funding at a Glance
The NSGP is a reimbursement-based grant — your organization pays upfront and then seeks reimbursement from FEMA with proper documentation.
$200K
Maximum per site
3 Sites
Per organization, per year
$600K
Potential total per organization
What Does the NSGP Cover?
Funds are designated for “target hardening” — physical security enhancements that reduce your vulnerability to threats.
Surveillance & Monitoring
AI-powered security cameras, video management systems, and monitoring infrastructure.
Access Control
Electronic locks, key card systems, visitor management, and identity verification.
Physical Barriers
Fencing, gates, ballistic-rated windows and doors, and other protective structures.
Cybersecurity
Network infrastructure, endpoint protection, and cybersecurity tools to protect security systems.
Training & Exercises
Security awareness training for staff and volunteers, tabletop exercises, and emergency drills.
Alarm Systems
Intrusion detection, panic buttons, mass notification systems, and emergency communication tools.
Not covered: Facial recognition software, weapons, hiring security personnel, ongoing operational costs, or standalone projects that lack an integrated approach.
How to Apply
The application process runs through your State Administrative Agency (SAA). Here are the key steps.
Confirm Eligibility & Contact Your SAA
Verify your 501(c)(3) status and reach out to your State Administrative Agency to confirm your funding stream (Urban Area or State) and learn state-specific deadlines.
Conduct a Vulnerability Assessment
Complete a formal Threat, Vulnerability, and Risk Assessment (TVRA). We offer a free Houses of Worship Self-Assessment tool to help you get started.
Develop Your Security Plan
Based on your TVRA findings, design an integrated security solution that addresses identified vulnerabilities. Strong applications show how physical security, network infrastructure, and cybersecurity work together.
Build a Detailed Budget
Create an itemized budget with vendor quotes tied directly to the vulnerabilities in your TVRA. Avoid lump sums — specificity strengthens your application.
Submit Your Investment Justification
Write a compelling narrative connecting the threats your organization faces to the security solutions you are proposing. This is the core of your FEMA application.
What Makes a Strong Application?
Many applicants miss out due to incomplete or unfocused submissions. A winning application includes these elements.
Formal TVRA
A professional vulnerability assessment is the foundation of your entire proposal.
Integrated Approach
Demonstrate how security cameras, access control, emergency response tool and cybersecurity work as a unified system.
Threat Documentation
Provide specific, credible threat evidence and supporting data for your organization.
Itemized Budget with Quotes
Competitive vendor quotes and line-item costs tied to each identified vulnerability.
Need Help with Your NSGP Application?
ActivePoint is an NSGP-eligible security platform. Join our free workshop to learn how to apply, or request a demo to see how ActivePoint can be part of your grant proposal.