Security Grants for Nonprofits and Houses of Worship
There are three security grant programs available to your organization. We administer all three and know how to win.
FEMA Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP)
A competitive federal grant providing funding to 501(c)(3) nonprofits at elevated risk of terrorism. Available in all 50 states, Washington D.C., and U.S. territories, with each state's own State Administrative Agency (SAA) managing the local application process.
What It Funds
CCTV and video surveillance systems
Access control (key fobs, electronic locks, intercom)
Exterior and interior lighting upgrades
Fencing, barriers, and bollards
Blast-resistant window film
Alarm and mass notification systems
Security awareness training
Security personnel (with restrictions)
Funding Details — FY2026
Per address
Up to $200,000
Max per organization (3 addresses)
Up to $600,000
Time to use funds
3 years from award
NOFO released
February (annual)
Who Qualifies
Registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit in any U.S. state or territory
At elevated risk of terrorism or hate-crime attack
Current Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) from SAM.gov
Current Vulnerability Risk Assessment (VRA) completed by state-designated law enforcement organization
State Nonprofit Security Grant Program
Many states administer their own nonprofit security grant programs, separate from and in addition to the federal NSGP. These programs run on state timelines and are administered by each state's designated agency.
What It Funds
Security cameras and surveillance systems
Access control and electronic locking systems
Exterior lighting and perimeter security
Fencing and physical barriers
Security film and window protection
Funding Details
Award range
$25,000 – $250,000+
Varies by
State and program year
Time to use funds
Varies by state
Example: Pennsylvania's state program offers up to $150K/site. State programs vary significantly — MSG will advise on your state's current availability.
Who Qualifies
501(c)(3) nonprofit located in a participating state
At demonstrable risk of terrorism or hate-crime attack
VRA completed by state-designated law enforcement organization
Current UEI from SAM.gov
DOJ Enhancing Security Measures for Houses of Worship
A separate federal grant from the U.S. Department of Justice's Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), designed to enhance security and law enforcement capabilities at faith-based institutions to prevent and respond to bias-motivated crimes.
Faith-Based Institution Security Camera & Evidence
Supports faith-based institutions in acquiring professional-grade security camera systems that deter bias-motivated crimes and provide critical evidence for successful prosecution.
What It Funds
High-definition cameras with night vision and facial recognition
Secure cloud-based storage with law enforcement access
Integration with local law enforcement crime centers
Technical training for facility staff on system operation
Deterrent signage and evidence preservation protocols
House of Worship Law Enforcement Protection
Funds overtime costs for state and local law enforcement officers to provide visible, uniformed security at houses of worship during services, events, and high-risk periods.
What It Funds
Overtime for uniformed law enforcement at services and events
Security presence during high-risk periods
Threat assessment and emergency response support
Real-time coordination with public safety networks
Private uniformed security at direction of local law enforcement
About DOJ Category 2
CAT 2 is applied for by state or local law enforcement on behalf of houses of worship. MSG assists by facilitating the coordination between your organization and local law enforcement agencies to ensure this application is submitted successfully.
$300K
$200K Federal NSGP + $100K State NSGP
In New Jersey, a single-site organization can combine Federal and State NSGP awards for one location. Stacking varies by state — MSG will advise on what your state qualifies for.
