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Active shooter incidents in the US have dramatically increased, with many ugly and tragic events happening at churches, schools, and other locations. To help non-profit organizations who generally don’t have the budget funds available to install or upgrade their physical and electronic security systems, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has established a $125 million dollar fund named the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) to help non-profits secure their buildings and protect their people. Up to $150,000 can be awarded for a single site.

This can potentially be a driver for systems sales for SES dealers. What is important to note is that the non-profit itself must apply for the funding. Here are the steps that must be taken to be considered for receiving some of these funds.

First, the applicant must apply for the funds through their State Administrative Agency (SAA). SAA’s have established and specific submission processes along with state-specific deadlines. End users can find their SAA info at https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/about/state-administrative-agency-contacts.

After establishing their SAA connection, nonprofits must get a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number. The UEI system is a replacement for the DUNS numbering registry, which was phased out on April 4, 2022. If the organization already has a DUNS number, it has been replaced with a UEI. Check this at sam.gov. If the non-profit does not have a DUNS or UEI number, they will be assigned one when they apply for their grant.

There are certain rules as to how non-profits must make their applications to achieve acceptance by FEMA. First, the application must go through and conform with their specific states SAA. Applications must include a “mission statement” on the official letterhead of the non-profit, that explains the “who, what and why” of the organization. The mission statement is a FEMA NOFO (Notice of Funding Opportunity) requirement.

A Vulnerability Assessment must be provided with the application that reflects the potential for terrorist attacks, the vulnerability of the facility, and potential consequences. Documentation such as police or insurance reports can be provided by the applicant to bolster their financial need for security funds. This is another NOFO requirement in the application process.

The third step is another FEMA NOFO requirement, that being an “Investment Justification.” This part of the application must be for a single physical address. This is where SES dealers can help the non-profit applicant by providing a detailed proposal for the proposed security system or upgrade, with all devices and installation labor figures included. This “Justification” should directly address the threats and vulnerabilities as described in the Vulnerability Assessment detailed above.

Once the paperwork is prepared, the non-profit can submit their application materials to their State Administrative Agency (SAA). The SAA will review and forward the application to FEMA.

This is a financial opportunity for security dealers to assist non-profits such as churches to receive government grant monies to upgrade their security, helping to protect their employees and the public.