Protecting Your Congregation
The safety of your congregation is not something you should have to face alone—and you don’t have to. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) administers the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP), a federally funded initiative designed to help nonprofit organizations at high risk of terrorist attack strengthen their physical security. Houses of worship—churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, and all faith-based gathering places—are among the organizations this program was built to serve.
At Kearnan Consulting Group, LLC, we want every house of worship to understand what this program offers, how to determine eligibility, and how to position your organization for a successful application.
What Is the NSGP?
The Nonprofit Security Grant Program provides funding for target hardening and physical security enhancements to nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, that face a heightened risk of attack. Administered by FEMA through the Department of Homeland Security, the program has grown substantially in recent years, reflecting the increasing need to protect faith-based communities and other at-risk nonprofits across the country.
The NSGP is divided into two funding streams:
- NSGP-UA (Urban Area): For nonprofit organizations located within FEMA-designated high-risk urban areas.
- NSGP-S (State): For nonprofit organizations located outside those designated urban areas—including suburban and rural communities.
This means that regardless of whether your house of worship is in a major metropolitan area or a smaller community, there may be a funding pathway available to you.
For full program details, visit: Nonprofit Security Grant Program | FEMA.gov
Who Is Eligible?
To be eligible for the NSGP, your organization must meet several key requirements:
501(c)(3) Status. Your house of worship must be a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with an active filing with the IRS.
SAM Registration. You must be registered in the federal System for Award Management (SAM) database and hold a valid Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). If you have not yet registered, this is an important first step—and it can take several weeks, so plan ahead.
Demonstrated Risk. You must be able to identify and substantiate a credible, current, or persistent threat from a terrorist or extremist organization, network, or cell—based on your organization’s ideology, beliefs, or mission. This is a critical component of the application.
Vulnerability Assessment. Each applicant must conduct an organizational vulnerability and risk assessment. The DHS Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) offers a free self-assessment tool specifically designed for houses of worship that can support this requirement.
What Does the Grant Cover?
The NSGP can fund up to $200,000 per location, and organizations may apply for up to three sites in each funding stream (UA and S)—for a potential total of up to $600,000.
Allowable expenses focus on target hardening and physical security improvements, including:
- Video surveillance systems (CCTV, video management systems)
- Access control systems (electronic locks, key card entry, buzz-in systems)
- Intrusion detection and alarm systems
- Perimeter security (fencing, bollards, reinforced barriers)
- Lighting upgrades for security purposes
- Reinforced doors, windows, and ballistic-resistant film
- Emergency communications (PA systems, mass notification, handheld radios)
- Cybersecurity enhancements related to physical security systems
- Security planning, training, and exercises
It is important to note that regular operating expenses—such as salaries for permanent security personnel—and general building repairs or renovations that do not directly enhance security are not eligible under this program.
How to Apply
Nonprofits do not apply directly to FEMA. Instead, applications are submitted through your State Administrative Agency (SAA)—typically your state’s office of homeland security or emergency management. The SAA reviews, scores, and forwards recommended projects to FEMA for final selection and award.
The general application process includes:
- Register in SAM.gov and obtain your UEI number well in advance of any deadline.
- Contact your State Administrative Agency to learn your state’s specific application timeline and requirements. Deadlines vary by state, and many open and close early in the calendar year.
- Conduct a vulnerability assessment of your facility using the CISA self-assessment tool or an equivalent.
- Prepare an Investment Justification (IJ) that clearly articulates the threat environment your organization faces, the vulnerabilities you’ve identified, and the specific security investments you are requesting.
- Submit your application through your state’s designated process by the posted deadline.
Why Your House of Worship Should Apply
The unfortunate reality is that houses of worship have increasingly become targets of violence and hate-motivated attacks. The NSGP exists to help organizations like yours take proactive, meaningful steps to protect your people and your property. The funding is substantial, and the program is specifically designed to be accessible to faith-based organizations of all sizes and denominations.
Even if you are unsure whether your organization qualifies, we encourage you to explore the program. Many houses of worship are eligible and simply don’t know it.
Learn More: Watch This Video
For an accessible overview of the program and what it means for your organization, we encourage you to watch this informational video:
How Kearnan Consulting Group Can Help
Navigating federal grant programs can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Kearnan Consulting Group, LLC specializes in helping organizations understand their eligibility, prepare, conduct vulnerability assessments, strong applications, and develop the security plans that support successful grant awards.
If you have questions about the NSGP or would like assistance with your application, we invite you to reach out to us.