Question 1

What is the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP)?

Accepted Answer

The NSGP is a federal grant program funded by the Department of Homeland Security and administered by FEMA. It provides up to $200,000 per building and $600,000 per organization to help nonprofits strengthen physical security at their facilities. All 501(c)(3) organizations — including churches, schools, community centers, and hospitals — are eligible to apply.

Question 2

Who is eligible to apply for NSGP?

Accepted Answer

Any 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that can demonstrate it is at risk of a terrorist or extremist attack. This includes houses of worship, private schools, community organizations, medical nonprofits, and more. You must own or lease the facility, and the site must be located in the United States.

Question 3

How much funding can my organization receive?

Accepted Answer

Through the federal NSGP, nonprofits can receive up to $200,000 per physical location and up to $600,000 per organization (across up to 3 sites). Some states also offer their own nonprofit security grant programs with additional funding — for example, California and Illinois each offer state-level programs with up to $250,000 per location.

Question 4

What can NSGP funds be used for?

Accepted Answer

Eligible expenses include surveillance cameras, access control systems, perimeter fencing and lighting, reinforced doors and windows, intrusion detection systems, emergency communications equipment, cybersecurity improvements, security training, and contracted security personnel. All purchases must align with FEMA's Authorized Equipment List.

Question 5

What is a vulnerability assessment and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A vulnerability assessment is a documented review of your facility that identifies security gaps. It's required for every NSGP application. It can be conducted by local law enforcement, a qualified security consultant, or through CISA's self-assessment tools. We coordinate this process for our clients at no additional cost.

Question 6

When is the NSGP application deadline?

Accepted Answer

The federal NOFO (Notice of Funding Opportunity) is typically released in mid-spring, with state-level application windows opening early summer depending on your state. Deadlines are strict and vary by state — we recommend beginning preparation at least 2–3 months before your state's window opens.

Question 7

How competitive is the NSGP?

Accepted Answer

The national success rate has been approximately 50–55% in recent years. Our network of grant writers maintains a success rate between 70% and 90%, significantly above the national average. A well-prepared application with a strong vulnerability assessment and clear investment justification makes a meaningful difference.

Question 8

Does my church/school qualify even if we've never had a security incident?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The program is designed for organizations that are at risk, not just those that have already experienced an incident. A vulnerability assessment will document your current risks, and your application can make the case based on the threat environment in your area, your organizational profile, and your current security gaps.

Question 9

What does it cost to work with Nonprofit Security Advisors?

Accepted Answer

Our fees are typically a fraction of the grant funding secured. Our average client ROI exceeds 1,000%. We can find a solution that works specifically for your budget.

Question 10

How long does the entire process take?

Accepted Answer

From initial consultation to grant submission, the process typically takes 4–8 weeks depending on your state's timeline. If awarded, the performance period for implementation is 36 months. We can manage the process from start to finish, including post-award compliance and audit preparation.

Question 11

Do you work with organizations outside of Illinois?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We serve nonprofits in all 50 states. The federal NSGP is a nationwide program, and we have experience navigating the application process with state administrative agencies across the country. We're currently serving clients in over 20 states.

Question 12

What if we've already applied for NSGP before and were denied?

Accepted Answer

Many organizations that are denied the first time succeed on their second or third attempt with improved applications. We can review your prior submission, identify weaknesses, strengthen your vulnerability assessment and investment justification, and resubmit a significantly stronger application.

Get ready for the 2027 NSGP.

The upgrades land on your team.

What it can fund

Video surveillance

Access control

Doors & barriers

Lighting

Contracted security

Planning

Get ready before the window opens.

How we help

Quick answers

Let's see what's possible for your church.