FY 26 HSGP NOFO_Final.pdf

Notice of Funding Opportunity

Application due: July 24, 2026

Fiscal Year 2026

Homeland Security Grant Program

Assistance Listing Number: 97.067

Funding Opportunity Number: DHS-26-GPD-067-00-98

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Contents

Before you begin 2

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 3

Basic information 4

Eligibility 5

Program Description 9

Step 2: Get Ready to Apply 30

Submission Requirements and Application Deadlines 31

Step 3: Write Your Application 34

Application Contents and Format 35

Step 4: Learn About the Award Review Process 40

Application Review Information 41

Intergovernmental Review 45

Step 5: Learn What Happens After Award 46

Award Notices 47

Post-Award Requirements and Administration 48

Other Information 59

Contacts and Appendices 66

Contacts 67

Appendices 69

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Before you begin

If you believe you are a good candidate for this funding opportunity, secure your System for

Award Management (SAM.gov) and Grants.gov registrations now. If you are already registered, make sure your registration is active and up-to-date.

SAM.gov registration (this can take several weeks)

You must have an active account with SAM.gov. This includes having a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI).

See Step 2: Get Ready to Apply

Grants.gov registration (this can take several days)

You must have an active Grants.gov registration. Doing so requires a Login.gov registration as well.

See Step 2: Get Ready to Apply

Fraud, waste, abuse, mismanagement, and other criminal or noncriminal misconduct related to this program may be reported to the Office of Inspector General (OIG) Hotline. The toll-free numbers to call are 1-(800)-323-8603 and TTY 1-(844)-889-4357

To help you find what you need, this NOFO uses internal links. In Adobe Reader, you can go back to where you were before clicking an internal link by pressing Alt + Left Arrow (Windows) or Command + Left Arrow (Mac) on your keyboard.

https://sam.gov/ https://grants.gov/ https://login.gov/

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Step 1: Review the Opportunity

In this step

Basic information 4

Eligibility 5

Program description 8

Jump to a step

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Basic Information A. Award Facts

Agency Name: U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

Assistance Listing Number: 97.067

Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) Title:

Fiscal Year 2026 Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP)

• State Homeland Security Grant Program (SHSP)

• Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI)

• Operation Stonegarden (OPSG)

Funding Opportunity Number: DHS-26-GPD-067-00-98 -26-GPD-067-

Announcement Type: Initial

Expected Award Range:

• SHSP: $394,250,000

• UASI: $584,250,000

• OPSG: $85,500,000

Expected Total Funding: $1,064,000,000

See Appendix 1: HSGP Allocations for the FY 2026 HSGP funding allocation tables.

Anticipated Number of Awards: 56 awards

B. Executive Summary HSGP strengthens the nation's capacity to prevent, prepare for, protect against, and respond to acts of terrorism and other catastrophic events through the following three components:

• SHSP: Supports the implementation of risk-driven, capabilities-based State Homeland Security Strategies to address capability targets.

• UASI: Focuses on high-risk urban area efforts to address their unique security needs.

• OPSG: Enhances cooperation and coordination among state, local, Tribal Nations, territorial and federal law enforcement agencies to jointly enhance security along the United States land and water borders.

Key Dates

Projected Application Start

Date: June 24, 2026

Projected Application End

Date: July 24, 2026

Anticipated Funding Selection

Date:

No later than September 30, 2026

Anticipated Award Date:

No later than September 30, 2026

Projected Period of

Performance Start Date:

September 01, 2026

Projected Period of Performance End Date:

August 31, 2029

Budget Period:

September 01, 2026 – August 31, Have questions? See Contacts and Support

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Eligibility A. Eligible Entities

Only the following entities or entity types are eligible to apply.

Applicant Eligibility

The State Administrative Agency (SAA) is the only entity eligible to submit HSGP applications to

DHS/FEMA. HSGP funds are provided to SAAs, which manage and distribute the funds within their respective states, Tribal Nations or territories. SAAs issue subawards to local and tribal governments and other eligible organizations ensuring that resources reach areas that need them to enhance security and disaster response.

For this funding opportunity, the term "state" includes all U.S. states, the District of Columbia, the

Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Tribal governments are not eligible to apply directly for HSGP funding but may receive funding through their state’s SAA.

Subapplicant Eligibility

SAAs distribute HSGP funds through subawards to other state, local, or tribal organizations. These organizations, called subrecipients, use the funds to improve local and regional security efforts.

1. Subrecipient Eligibility

Under HSGP, FEMA provides funds to each state's SAA. The SAA distributes these funds to other state or local organizations, such as city agencies or county departments, as well as tribal governments. These distributed funds are called subawards, and the organizations receiving them are referred to as subrecipients.

• SHSP: All U.S. states and territories listed above are eligible. Tribal governments must work through their state’s SAA.

• UASI: FEMA identifies high-risk urban areas based on terrorism risk. SAAs distribute subawards to these designated urban areas. See Appendix 1: HSGP Allocations for the complete list.

• OPSG: Eligible subrecipients include county-level or equivalent governments and federally recognized tribal governments in states bordering Canada or Mexico, or those with international water borders. Applicants must have active U.S. Border Patrol operations coordinated with a U.S.

Customs and Border Protection sector office to qualify.

2. Reducing Subapplicant Burden

For FY 2026, each SAA is strongly encouraged to re-evaluate its process for collecting and evaluating subaward applications. FEMA encourages each SAA to minimize the type and quantity of information that it collects as part of the subaward application process, in order to decrease the associated overall financial and time burden.

B. Project Type Eligibility

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Allowable Project Types

Allowable costs for SHSP, UASI, and OPSG generally fall into five main categories: planning, organization, equipment, training, and exercises (POETE). All projects funded under SHSP and UASI must demonstrate a clear connection to building capabilities that prevent, prepare for, protect against, or respond to acts of terrorism.

Please see Appendix 2: Allowable Costs for more information on allowable costs. If there are questions about specific experiences, contact your FEMA Preparedness Officer.

Unallowable Project Types

Per FEMA policy, the purchase of weapons and weapons accessories, including ammunition, is not allowed with HSGP funds. Grant funds may not be used for the purchase of the following equipment: firearms;

ammunition; grenade launchers; bayonets; or weaponized aircraft, vessels, or vehicles of any kind with weapons installed. Unauthorized exercise-related costs include:

▪ Reimbursement for the maintenance or wear and tear costs of general use vehicles (e.g., construction vehicles), medical supplies, and emergency response apparatus (e.g., fire trucks, ambulances); and

▪ Equipment that is purchased for permanent installation and/or use, beyond the scope of the conclusion of the training or exercise (e.g., electronic messaging sign).

HSGP funds may not be used to support the hiring of sworn public safety officers for purposes of fulfilling traditional public safety duties or to supplant traditional public safety positions and responsibilities (6

U.S.C. § 609(b)(1)(A)).

As directed by Section 2008(b)(2) of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (codified as amended at 6 U.S.C. § 609(b)(2)), all personnel and personnel-related costs, including those of intelligence analysts and operational overtime, are allowed up to 50% of HSGP funding without time limitation placed on the period of time that such personnel can serve. FEMA may provide a waiver at the request of the recipient to allow personnel expenses to exceed 50% of the amount awarded.

Applicants should refer to IB 421b and IB 563 or contact their FEMA Headquarters (HQ) Preparedness Officer for guidance and clarification.

See Program-Specific Unallowable Costs and Ineligible Projects for more information on unallowable project types.

OPSG funds may not be used for the following:

▪ Evidence collection, arrest processing, prosecution, and Traffic/DUI checkpoints, such as evidence documentation cameras, fingerprinting supplies, alcohol breathalyzers, portable work lights, traffic barricades, and similar law enforcement expenses;

▪ Staffing (other than overtime) and general information technology computing equipment and hardware, such as personal computers, faxes, copy machines, and modems;

▪ Hiring full-time or permanent sworn public safety officers;

https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/2020-04/Price_Wavier_Act_Clarification_IB_421B_GPD_Approved.pdf https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_gpd_fy25-opsg-paw-ib_04302026.pdf

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▪ Supplanting of inherent routine patrols and law enforcement operations or activities not directly related to providing enhanced coordination between local and federal law enforcement agencies;

▪ Construction and/or renovation costs; or

▪ Exercise expenses.

C. Requirements for Personnel, Partners, and Other Parties An application submitted by an otherwise eligible non-federal entity (i.e., the applicant) may be deemed ineligible when the person that submitted the application is not:

1. A current employee, official, or leader of the recipient organization; and

2. Authorized to apply for the award on behalf of the entity at the time of submission.

Additionally, the Authorized Organization Representative (AOR) must:

1. Be a current authorized employee, official, or leader of the recipient organization.

2. Use a unique email address associated with the recipient organization at the time of application and upon any change in assignment during the period of performance.

Consultants or contractors are not permitted to serve as the AOR of the recipient organization. For more information on the roles and responsibilities of the AOR, refer to FEMA's guidance on Roles and

Permissions.

Subapplicants should not have foreign nationals or noncitizens included. If a subapplicant has foreign nationals, they must be properly vetted and must adhere to all government statutes, policies, and procedures including “staff American, stay in America” and security requirements.

Subapplicants/subrecipients must submit short bios and resumes. This should include the type of entity, organizational leadership, and board members along with both the names and addresses of the individuals. Resumes are subject to approval.

D. Maximum Number of Applications The maximum number of applications that can be submitted is:

One per SAA.

E. Additional Restrictions Recipients/subrecipients, and if applicable, applicants/subapplicants, are required to certify their compliance with federal statues, DHS directives, policies, and procedures.

Under HSGP, there are specific funding guidelines/requirements for allocating funds:

a. Pass-Through Requirements

For more information on funding restrictions, refer to the Preparedness Grants Manual.

https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_gpd_fema-go-aor-and-sar-roles_042025.pdf https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_gpd_fema-go-aor-and-sar-roles_042025.pdf https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/178291

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b. Funding Withholding for Election Security NPA Requirements

In addition to the minimum allocation requirements for the FY 2026 National Priority Areas (NPAs) and Law Enforcement Terrorism Prevention Activities (LETPA), recipients must comply with the FY 2026 Election

Security NPA requirements as a condition of full drawdown of eligible HSGP funds (including SHSP, UASI, and OPSG).

For each state and UASI, FEMA will withhold from drawdown an amount equal to 20% of the recipient’s total HSGP award (SHSP, UASI, and OPSG) until the recipient submits proof of compliance with the FY 2026

Election Security NPA requirements, and such proof is verified/confirmed by the Department.

Upon verification/confirmation, the Department will notify the recipient and release the withheld portion(s) for drawdown in accordance with applicable grant administration requirements.

F. References to Other Eligibility Factors Please see the following references provided below:

1. “Threshold Review Criteria” subsection

2. “Financial Integrity Criteria” subsection

3. “Supplemental Financial Integrity Criteria and Review” subsection

4. FEMA may request financial information such as the Employer Identification Number (EIN) and bank information as part of the potential award selection. This will apply to everyone who benefits from the award, including subrecipients.

G. Cost Share Requirements There is no cost share requirement.

H. Cost Share Description, Type, and Restrictions Not applicable.

I. Cost Share Example

J. Required Information for Verifying Cost Share

Maintenance of Effort

Program Description

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A. Program Purpose HSGP includes three key grant programs designed to enhance the capabilities of state, local, tribal, and territorial governments, to prevent, protect against, and respond to terrorist attacks. These programs are part of a comprehensive set of measures authorized by Congress and implemented by the Department of

Homeland Security (DHS) to strengthen the nation's communities against potential terrorist threats.

In FY 2026, HSGP continues to include three grant programs:

• SHSP: Supports the implementation of risk-driven, capabilities-based State Homeland Security Strategies to address capability targets.

• UASI: Focuses on high-risk urban area efforts to address their unique security needs.

• OPSG: Enhances cooperation and coordination among state, local, tribal, territorial, and federal law enforcement agencies to jointly enhance security along the United States land and water borders.

These programs collectively aim to strengthen the nation's ability to prevent, prepare for, protect against, and respond to acts of terrorism and other threats.

Since its inception in 2003, DHS has invested more than $65 billion to enhance the nation's preparedness through programs like HSGP. HSGP addresses evolving threats such as cybersecurity vulnerabilities and the protection of soft targets and crowded places. It represents a comprehensive approach to national security, fostering collaboration across all levels of government and within communities to build a safer, more resilient nation. Through planning, training, equipment procurement, and exercises, the program ensures jurisdictions are prepared for a wide range of risks.

In recent years:

• Funding priorities have evolved to include cybersecurity, election security, and countering emerging national security threats.

• Key accomplishments include the development of interoperable communication systems, emergency response training, and investment in physical and cybersecurity measures.

• The program emphasizes strategic investments to address identified capability gaps, requiring alignment with Threat and Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (THIRA) and Stakeholder Preparedness Review (SPR).

This support equips various jurisdictions with the necessary tools and resources to effectively manage and mitigate a wide range of threats and hazards, aligning with FEMA's goal of building a secure and resilient nation.

B. Goals and Objectives As HSGP is comprised of three grant programs, this section is divided into SHSP and UASI (addressed together) and OPSG, each with its own focus and goals. SHSP and UASI aim to strengthen the ability of states and urban areas to prevent, prepare for, protect against, and respond to acts of terrorism and other hazards. OPSG remains unique to border security, and focuses on improving cooperation between local,

1. Review 2. Get ready 3. Write 4. Learn 5. Award Contacts tribal, state, and federal law enforcement to secure America’s international borders. These programs work together to build a secure and resilient nation, giving communities the tools and resources they need to handle various threats and emergencies effectively.

SHSP and UASI

1. SHSP and UASI Goals

The goal of SHSP is to support statewide and state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) governments in building, enhancing, and sustaining the capabilities needed to prevent, prepare for, protect against, and respond to acts of terrorism. SHSP funding is intended to help SLTT agencies address capability gaps identified through the THIRA/SPR process, as well as prioritize resources toward high-impact security focus areas, known as NPAs.

The goal for the UASI program is to enhance the security and resilience of high-risk urban areas by building, sustaining, and improving capabilities to prevent, prepare for, protect against, and respond to acts of terrorism. This goal focuses on enabling urban areas to address identified security gaps, increase interagency coordination, and strengthen critical infrastructure protection to reduce vulnerabilities in locations facing heightened risks.

Under HSGP, together SHSP and UASI aim to build a cohesive and collaborative approach to homeland security by promoting national preparedness and resilience.

2. SHSP and UASI Objectives

SHSP and UASI provide resources that support eligible SLTT governments in meeting the following objectives:

• Build and sustain core capabilities, including LETPA and the NPAs (see priorities below).

• Address capability gaps identified in their THIRA and SPR process.

• Implement a comprehensive and coordinated approach to address enduring security needs of communities that include planning, training and awareness campaigns, equipment and capital projects, and exercises.

3. SHSP and UASI Funding Priorities and Requirements

HSGP establishes specific funding requirements to ensure resources are allocated effectively and address critical national priorities.

a) Law Enforcement Terrorism Prevention Activities (LETPA):

• Description: LETPA are initiatives funded through HSGP aimed at enhancing law enforcement's ability to prevent terrorist attacks. These activities focus on building and sustaining capabilities in areas such as intelligence analysis, information sharing, threat recognition, and terrorist interdiction.

• Allocation Requirement: At least 35% of each state/territory SHSP/UASI (where applicable) allocation must be allocated to LETPA activities.

• Flexibility: LETPA funds can come from SHSP, UASI, or both to meet this requirement.

• Project Alignment: LETPA funds can be applied to projects across the NPAs or other

1. Review 2. Get ready 3. Write 4. Learn 5. Award Contacts investments that meet LETPA criteria.

• Additional Guidance: For detailed guidance on allowable LETPA expenditures and requirements, refer to FEMA's Preparedness Grants Manual and Information Bulletin

485 and Information Bulletin 497.

b) National Priority Areas (NPAs):FY 2026 HSGP aligns with the Administration’s priorities by directing resources toward the most urgent threats facing the nation. Through the SHSP and UASI, HSGP supports the development and sustainment of core capabilities essential to achieving the National Preparedness Goal (NPG): “A secure and resilient nation.”

To ensure strategic focus, DHS has identified five NPAs that reflect the evolving risk landscape and national policy objectives. These priorities serve as a framework for targeting investments that build capability, reduce risk, and promote cross-sector coordination.

The following are the required NPAs for FY 2026:

1. Enhancing the protection of soft targets and crowded places,

a. This includes faith-based organizations and election sites;

2. Supporting Homeland Security Task Forces and fusion centers;

3. Enhancing and integrating cybersecurity resiliency;

4. Enhancing election security; and

5. Supporting border crisis response and enforcement.

a. Example activities under border crisis response and enforcement support may include:

i. Participation in the Department of Homeland Security/Immigration and

Customs Enforcement 287(g) training program;

ii. Cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement detainers; and

iii. Other jurisdictional responsibilities to support the enforcement of United State immigration law.

These NPAs are rooted in the core mission areas of the NPG—prevention, protection, mitigation, and response, and reflect a whole-of-government approach to homeland security. Applicants should use these priorities to guide planning, investment, and implementation to drive measurable outcomes and long-term resilience.

c) Allocation Requirement:

Recipients must allocate at least 30% of their SHSP and UASI funds to the five NPAs. Funds can be applied to projects across the five NPAs and can be used to meet LETPA criteria. By meticulously outlining how each investment and project meets LETPA and NPA requirements within the Investment Justifications (IJ), applicants can enhance the effectiveness and compliance of their funding proposals.

d) Minimum Spend:

• Enhancing Election Security requires at least 3% of total SHSP and UASI funds.

• Supporting Border Crisis Response and Enforcement requires at least 10% of total SHSP and UASI funds.

https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/manual https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_information-bulletin-485.pdf https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_information-bulletin-485.pdf https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_gpd_ib-497-operational-overtime.pdf

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• The remaining 17% can be allocated across all NPAs.

Failure to meet NPA spending requirements will result in a hold on affected funds until compliance issues are resolved.

Priority Areas Description Minimum Allocation Requirement

Enhancing the Protection of Soft Targets/Crowded

Places

Improving security at locations accessible to the public and vulnerable to attacks.

No minimum allocation

Supporting Homeland

Security Task Forces and Fusion Centers

Promoting coordination of activities and critical information sharing and analysis to prevent and respond to threats.

No minimum allocation, but applicants must include at least one project in support of the state or territory’s designated fusion center.

Enhancing Cybersecurity Strengthening the protection of computer systems and networks against cyber threats.

No minimum allocation

Enhancing Election

Security

Ensuring the integrity and security of voting systems.

At least 3% of the total

SHSP and UASI allocation must be dedicated to this area.

Supporting Border Crisis

Response and Enforcement

Supporting collaboration between state and local law enforcement and U.S. Immigration and Customs

Enforcement (ICE) through the 287(g) program to identify and remove individuals who pose a threat to public safety and national security.

At least 10% of the total SHSP and UASI allocation must be dedicated to this area.

To ensure strategic focus, DHS has identified five NPAs that reflect the evolving risk landscape and national policy objectives. These priorities serve as a framework for targeting investments that build capability, reduce risk, and promote cross-sector coordination. Additionally, and consistent with

Section 4 of National Security Presidential Memorandum-7 (NSPM-7), domestic terrorism has been designated as a priority within applicable homeland security grant programs. States are encouraged to review the Strategic Framework for Countering Terrorism and Targeted Violence when developing https://www.dhs.gov/publication/dhs-strategic-framework-countering-terrorism-and-targeted-violence

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4. NPA Investments: SHSP and UASI

a) Enhancing and Protection of Soft Targets/Crowded Places (no minimum percentage)

Soft targets and crowded places, like parks, shopping centers, transportation hubs, and event venues, are increasingly appealing to terrorists because of their accessibility and the large gatherings. These areas often lack strict security measures, making them vulnerable. To address this, public and private sectors must collaborate to strengthen the security of locations such as transportation centers, restaurants, polling places, and similar facilities. Personnel responding to incidents at these sites should also be trained in key operational systems, such as the Incident Command System (ICS), to ensure effective on-scene incident management.

In addition, the malicious use of unmanned aircraft systems (i.e., drones) poses safety and security risks to soft targets and crowded places. Detecting drones is an allowable use of funds under the HSGP in accordance with Executive Order 14305, Restoring American Airspace Sovereignty, which allows the purchase of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) or equipment or services for the detection, tracking, or identification of drones and drone signals, and FEMA

Information Bulletin 530. Before purchasing and deploying these systems, as outlined in the Domestic Counter-UAS National Action Plan, recipients must:

• Consult FEMA and Legal Experts: Work with FEMA's Preparedness Officer and legal experts to ensure your policies and procedures comply with federal and state laws regarding surveillance and communication.

• Develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Establish clear guidelines to ensure operations are conducted in a manner consistent with First and Fourth Amendment protections, and other applicable provisions of federal law.

• Provide Training and Certification: Ensure personnel operating UAS systems are properly trained and certified, in accordance with FEMA and Federal Aviation Administration standards.

Applicants are encouraged to submit an investment related to protecting soft targets/crowded places. The proposed investment will be subject to DHS/FEMA’s evaluation of the effectiveness of the proposed investments. States are encouraged to engage DHS’ Protective Security

Advisors for security assessments of soft targets to ensure that recommendations from those assessments are taken into consideration when allocating grant funding.

Additional Resources

Further guidance and resources for securing soft targets and crowded places can be found through the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology. For comprehensive compliance and operational details, refer to

FEMA's Preparedness Grants Manual and related program documents.

b) Supporting Homeland Security Task Forces and Fusion Centers (no minimum percentage)

This priority supports the Administration’s direction under Executive Order 14159, Protecting https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/06/restoring-american-airspace-sovereignty/ https://www.cisa.gov/securing-public-gatherings https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/manual

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Task Forces (HSTFs) nationwide. These multi-agency teams, composed of federal and local law enforcement partners—are tasked with disrupting and dismantling transnational criminal organizations, targeting cross-border human smuggling and trafficking networks (especially those involving children), and using all appropriate law enforcement tools to support lawful immigration enforcement.

Activities under this NPA also enhance broader national efforts in:

• Counterterrorism;

• Cybersecurity;

• Border security;

• Immigration enforcement;

• Transnational organized crime; and

• Protection of economic and critical infrastructure

Allowable Costs:

Applicants may use grant funds for:

• Establishing or enhancing multi-agency HSTFS, including operational coordination centers

• Enhancing capabilities and integration with local fusion centers;

• Procuring technology or equipment to support surveillance, communications, and data analysis;

• Developing standard operating procedures for information sharing, joint operations, and immigration enforcement coordination;

• Personnel training, credentialing, and certification to improve interoperability and mission alignment;

• Intelligence analysis, reporting, and suspicious activity monitoring;

• Exercises and simulations focused on joint operations, intelligence sharing, or interdiction/disruption of criminal or smuggling networks; and

• Community engagement efforts to foster trust and encourage threat reporting.

Fusion Center Requirements: Although there is no minimum spending requirement for this

NPA, applicants must include at least one project in support of the state or territory’s designated fusion center. Applicants must clearly justify how their project will enhance information sharing, collaboration, and a culture of national preparedness. DHS/FEMA will evaluate these investments based on their effectiveness and alignment with program objectives. Please see the Preparedness Grants Manual for more information on fusion center performance measures.

Additional resources and information regarding collaboration and information sharing are also available through the Department’s Office of Intelligence and Analysis.

c) Cybersecurity (no minimum percentage)

In today’s interconnected world, increased connectivity brings greater risks, including the potential for adversaries and terrorists to exploit cyber vulnerabilities and disrupt critical systems. While not mandatory, applicants are encouraged to submit proposals for ongoing or https://www.dhs.gov/building-law-enforcement-and-homeland-security-partnerships

1. Review 2. Get ready 3. Write 4. Learn 5. Award Contacts high-priority cybersecurity projects. DHS/FEMA will evaluate these investments based on their effectiveness.

Cybersecurity investments should enhance the security and functioning of critical infrastructure and core capabilities related to preventing, preparing for, protecting against, or responding to acts of terrorism.

d) Election Security (3% minimum allocation)

In January 2017, DHS designated the infrastructure used to administer the nation’s elections as critical infrastructure. This designation recognizes that the United States’ election infrastructure is of such vital importance to the American way of life that its incapacitation or destruction would have a devastating effect on the country. Additionally, the Homeland Threat

Assessment 2024 indicates that electoral processes remain an attractive target for many adversaries.

Securing election infrastructure, ensuring its continued operation in the face of threats and harassment, advancing the safety of election officials, and protecting against foreign interference are national security priorities. Because threats to election systems are constantly evolving, defending these systems requires constant vigilance, innovation, and adaptation. By integrating the directives of Executive Order 14248, Preserving and Protection the Integrity of

American Elections, into the Election Security NPA, HSGP recipients can ensure that their efforts contribute to a secure, transparent, and resilient electoral process, thereby reinforcing public trust and the integrity of democratic institutions.

To address these priorities, each state and high-risk urban area must make at least one investment that supports physical and/or cyber election security. Proposed investments must meet or exceed the FY 2026 national priority percentage for election security (minimum 3%) and will be evaluated by DHS/FEMA for effectiveness and alignment with program goals.

To strengthen the integrity of U.S. elections, each state and high-risk urban area election jurisdiction must:

• Submit a transition plan: Submit a plan for transitioning from electronic voting systems that utilize bar codes or QR codes to count votes to equipment that accepts hand-marked paper ballots. The plan, for all jurisdictions currently using such systems, must include a timeline and, if necessary, a funding request to eliminate ballot marking devices and utilize hand-marked paper ballots.

• Post-election manual audit: Demonstrate proof of compliance with a post-election 5% manual audit, conducted according to the guidelines established by the Secretary, to ensure that electronic voting systems accurately count votes.

• Voter/ballot reconciliation: Ensure that each election jurisdiction reconciles the number of voters who voted in each federal election to the number of ballots cast, using the methodology established by the Secretary.

• Voter roll citizenship verification: Utilize the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) system to verify the citizenship of all https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/2023-09/23_0913_ia_23-333-ia_u_homeland-threat-assessment-2024_508C_V6_13Sep23.pdf https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/2023-09/23_0913_ia_23-333-ia_u_homeland-threat-assessment-2024_508C_V6_13Sep23.pdf https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/03/28/2025-05523/preserving-and-protecting-the-integrity-of-american-elections

1. Review 2. Get ready 3. Write 4. Learn 5. Award Contacts individuals in the state voter registration database within 120 days of accepting the grant award*. To mitigate operational vulnerabilities exploitable by terrorist or foreign actors and advance HSGP counterterrorism objectives, the State's chief election official must take timely corrective action, consistent with applicable law, to remove verified non-U.S. citizens from the database.

• Election worker citizenship verification: Utilize the SAVE system, or another authorized government system, to verify U.S. citizenship for any person working at a polling place in any capacity, or operating any election system in the jurisdiction, including temporary agency workers and vendors who work on or with election systems. To prevent sabotage, infiltration, or foreign interference, the State's chief election official must ensure verified non-U.S. citizens are prohibited from operating election systems or working at polling places, consistent with applicable law, thereby hardening critical infrastructure under

HSGP.

3% Allocation vs. 20% Holdback — Distinct Requirements

The 3% minimum allocation and the 20% holdback are separate requirements and do not offset one another.

• The 3% minimum allocation is a spending requirement: each state and high-risk urban area must dedicate at least 3% of its SHSP and UASI award to eligible election security investments.

• The 20% holdback is a separate drawdown condition: For each state and UASI, FEMA will withhold from drawdown an amount equal to 20% of the recipient’s total HSGP award

(SHSP, UASI, and OPSG) until the recipient submits proof of compliance with the FY 2026

Election Security NPA requirements and the Department verifies/confirms that proof.

Meeting the 3% allocation does not, by itself, release the 20% holdback, and the holdback applies to funds beyond the 3% set-aside.

Upon verification/confirmation of compliance, FEMA will notify the recipient and release the withheld portion(s) for drawdown in accordance with applicable grant administration requirements.

Additional resources and information regarding election security are available through the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

e) Supporting Border Crisis Response and Enforcement (10% minimum allocation)

State and local law enforcement agencies are essential partners in safeguarding national security and public safety. Pursuant to Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion, it is the policy of the United States to enforce immigration laws against all inadmissible and removable aliens—particularly those who threaten the safety or security of the American people. This includes the efficient execution of these laws through lawful incentives and enhanced detention capabilities.

This NPA supports efforts that align with this policy and promote cooperation between local and federal partners. Projects may include, but are not limited to:

https://www.cisa.gov/election-security https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/01/29/2025-02006/protecting-the-american-people-against-invasion

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• Participation in the DHS/ICE 287(g) program, allowing trained local officers to support ICE with immigration enforcement.

o Cooperation with ICE detainers and other jurisdictional responsibilities related to immigration enforcement; and o Supportive activities such as officer training, technology and information sharing, operational support, and community engagement.

At least one investment must support efforts under this NPA. Applicants must allocate at least

10% of total SHSP and UASI funds to this area. All investments will be reviewed by DHS/FEMA to ensure they are effective, lawful, and aligned with program goals. The SAA must coordinate with ICE on all projects and related matters. Additional guidance and information on the 287(g) program are available through the ICE 287(g) program website.

f) Other FY 2026 SHSP and UASI Funding Priorities

There are several enduring security needs that crosscut the homeland security enterprise to which recipients should consider allocating funding across core capability gaps and national priorities. The following are enduring needs that help recipients implement a comprehensive approach to securing communities:

• Effective planning;[1]

• Training and awareness campaigns;

• Equipment and capital projects; and

• Exercises.

The table below breaks down the FY 2026 SHSP and UASI priorities showing the core capabilities enhanced and lifelines supported, as well as examples of eligible project types for each area. More information on allowable investments can be found in Appendix 2: Allowable

Costs and in the Preparedness Grants Manual.

DHS/FEMA expects that national priorities will continue to be included in future years, evolving as threats change and capability gaps are addressed. Applicants are strongly encouraged to start planning now to sustain existing capabilities using funding sources other than DHS preparedness grants.

Projects listed in the table below may be useful in preparing for disasters unrelated to terrorism, if they also support the primary goals of preventing, preparing for, protecting against, or responding to acts of terrorism.

Example Project Types: All priorities in this table concern Safety and Security Lifelines.

1 Including assessment of critical infrastructure system vulnerabilities and plans to reduce consequences of disruptions, using the Infrastructure Resilience Planning Framework and Regional Resiliency Assessment Methodology produced by the

Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency https://www.ice.gov/identify-and-arrest/287g https://www.ice.gov/identify-and-arrest/287g https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/homeland-security/fy-25-nofo#ftn2 https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/manual

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Priority Areas Core Capabilities Example Project Types

National Priorities

Enhancing the

Protection of Soft

Targets/Crowded

Places (Securing Public Gathering Locations)

▪ Operational coordination

▪ Public information and warning

▪ Intelligence and information sharing

▪ Interdiction and disruption

▪ Screening, search, and detection

▪ Access control and identity verification

▪ Physical protective measures

▪ Risk management for protection programs and activities

▪ Operational overtime. For more information on operational overtime, see Appendix 2 of this NOFO.

▪ Physical security enhancements o Security cameras (closed-circuit television [CCTV]) o Security screening equipment for people and baggage o Lighting o Access controls o Fencing, gates, barriers, etc.

▪ UAS and detection technologies

Enhancing

Cybersecurity

▪ Cybersecurity

▪ Intelligence and information sharing

▪ Planning

▪ Public information and warning

▪ Operational coordination

▪ Screening, search, and detection

▪ Access control and identity verification

▪ Supply chain integrity and security

▪ Risk management for protection programs and activities

▪ Long-term vulnerability reduction

▪ Situational assessment

▪ Infrastructure systems

▪ Operational communications

▪ Cybersecurity risk assessments

▪ Migrating online services to the “.gov” internet domain

▪ Projects that address vulnerabilities identified in cybersecurity risk assessments o Improving cybersecurity of critical infrastructure to meet minimum levels identified by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security

Agency and the National Institute of

Standards and Technology

Cybersecurity Framework (Version 1.1) o Adoption of cybersecurity performance goals (CISA's Cross- Sector Cybersecurity Performance

Goals)

▪ Cybersecurity training, planning, and exercises

Supporting Homeland Security Task Forces

▪ Intelligence and information sharing

▪ Establishing or enhancing multi-agency Homeland Security Task Forces https://www.cisa.gov/cybersecurity https://www.cisa.gov/cybersecurity https://www.cisa.gov/cybersecurity https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework/csf-11-archive https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework/csf-11-archive https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework/csf-11-archive https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework/csf-11-archive https://www.cisa.gov/cpg https://www.cisa.gov/cpg https://www.cisa.gov/cpg

1. Review 2. Get ready 3. Write 4. Learn 5. Award Contacts and Fusion Centers ▪ Interdiction and disruption

▪ Public information and warning

▪ Operational coordination

▪ Risk management for protection programs and activities

(HSTFs), including operational coordination centers

▪ Enhancing capabilities and integration with local fusion centers

▪ Procuring technology or equipment to support surveillance, communications, and data analysis

▪ Developing standard operating procedures for information sharing, joint operations, and immigration enforcement coordination

▪ Personnel training, credentialing, and certification to improve interoperability and mission alignment

▪ Intelligence analysis, reporting, and suspicious activity monitoring

▪ Exercises and simulations focused on joint operations, intelligence sharing, or interdiction/disruption of criminal or smuggling networks

▪ Community engagement efforts to foster trust and encourage threat reporting

▪ Information sharing with all DHS components; fusion centers; other operational, investigative, and analytic entities; and other federal law enforcement and intelligence entities

▪ Cooperating with DHS and other entities in intelligence, threat recognition, assessment, analysis, and mitigation

▪ Identifying, assessing, and reporting of threats of violence

▪ Intelligence analysis training, planning, and exercises

▪ Coordinating the intake, triage, analysis, and reporting of tips/ leads and suspicious activity, to include coordination with the Nationwide

Suspicious Activity Reporting (SAR) Initiative (NSI) https://www.dhs.gov/nationwide-sar-initiative-nsi https://www.dhs.gov/nationwide-sar-initiative-nsi https://www.dhs.gov/nationwide-sar-initiative-nsi

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Enhancing Election Security

▪ Cybersecurity

▪ Intelligence and information sharing

▪ Planning

▪ Long-term vulnerability reduction

▪ Situational assessment

▪ Infrastructure systems

▪ Operational coordination

▪ Community resilience

▪ Physical security planning and exercise support

▪ Physical/site security measures (e.g., locks, shatter-proof glass, alarms, access controls)

▪ General election security navigator support

▪ Cyber and general election security navigator support

▪ Cybersecurity risk assessments, training, and planning

▪ Projects that address vulnerabilities identified in cybersecurity risk assessments

▪ Iterative backups, encrypted backups, network segmentation, monitoring/scanning software, and endpoint protection

▪ Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) protection

▪ Migrating online services to the “.gov” internet domain

▪ Public awareness and preparedness campaigns addressing election security and integrity measures

▪ Long-term vulnerability reduction and community resilience initiatives

Supporting Border

Crisis Response and

Enforcement

▪ Training and awareness

▪ Community resilience

▪ Operational coordination

▪ Risk management for protection programs and activities

▪ Staffing support to expand 287(g) screening operations within correctional facilities

▪ Operational overtime costs directly tied to 287(g) screening, processing, and enforcement activities

▪ Training programs for state and local law enforcement officers in immigration law, civil rights and civil liberties protections, and 287(g) procedures

▪ Developing or enhancing information-sharing platforms between ICE and

1. Review 2. Get ready 3. Write 4. Learn 5. Award Contacts local agencies

▪ Procuring screening, detection, and communications technology to support immigration enforcement activities

▪ Establishing secure and dedicated communication networks with ICE Field Offices

▪ Conducting joint training exercises with

ICE and local law enforcement to test operational coordination

▪ Supporting facilities upgrades, such as creating dedicated interview rooms and secure processing spaces

▪ Community engagement and public briefings to promote transparency and understanding of 287(g) operations and protections

Enduring Needs

Planning ▪ Planning

▪ Risk management for protection programs and activities

▪ Risk and disaster resilience assessment

▪ Threats and hazards identification

▪ Operational coordination

▪ Community resilience

▪ Development of:

o Security Risk Management Plans o Threat Mitigation Plans o Continuity of Operations Plans o Response Plans o Vulnerability Assessments

▪ Efforts to strengthen governance integration between/among regional partners

▪ Joint training and planning with DHS officials and other entities designated by DHS

▪ Cybersecurity training and planning

Training and

Awareness

▪ Long-term vulnerability reduction

▪ Public information and warning

▪ Operational coordination

▪ Situational assessment

▪ Community resilience

▪ Active shooter training

▪ Intelligence analyst training

▪ SAR and terrorism indicators/behaviors training

▪ Security training for employees

▪ Public awareness/preparedness campaigns

▪ Cybersecurity training and planning

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▪ Sharing and leveraging intelligence and information

Equipment and Capital

Projects

▪ Long-term vulnerability reduction

▪ Infrastructure systems

▪ Operational communications

▪ Interdiction and disruption

▪ Screening, search and detection

▪ Access control and identity verification

▪ Physical protective measures

▪ Protecting high-risk, high-consequence areas or systems that have been identified through risk assessments

▪ Physical security enhancements o Security cameras (CCTV) o Security screening equipment for people and baggage o Lighting o Access Controls o Fencing, gates, barriers, etc.

▪ Enhancing Weapons of Mass

Destruction and/or improvised explosive device prevention, detection, and response capabilities o Chemical/Biological/Radiological/

Nuclear/Explosive detection, prevention, and response equipment

Exercises ▪ Long-term vulnerability reduction

▪ Operational coordination

▪ Operational communications

▪ Community resilience

▪ Response exercises, including exercise planning with community-based organizations

For FY 2026, each SHSP and UASI recipient is required to submit an Investment Justification (IJ) for the

NPAs with minimum spend requirements (i.e., Enhancing Election Security and Supporting Border Crisis Response and Enforcement). The investments must also account for at least the relevant minimum percentage of the applicant’s SHSP and UASI allocations. SAAs may submit complete project-level information at the time of application, including the NPA IJs, but are not required to do so. As a reminder, all SHSP and UASI-funded projects must have demonstrated a nexus to achieving target capabilities related to preventing, preparing for, protecting against, and responding to acts of terrorism. At the same time, these projects can also help improve preparedness for other types of disasters.

OPSG

e. Goals and Objectives for OPSG Operation Stonegarden (OPSG) supports enhanced cooperation and coordination among Customs and

Border Protection (CBP)/United States Border Patrol (USBP), and federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial

1. Review 2. Get ready 3. Write 4. Learn 5. Award Contacts law enforcement agencies to strengthen border security.

The programs objectives are to:

▪ Enhance collaboration and coordination among federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial law enforcement agencies to strengthen border security;

▪ Support joint efforts to secure borders, including land and water routes, and critical travel corridors;

and

▪ Improve information and intelligence sharing to address border-related threats effectively.

f. OPSG Funding Priorities FY 2026 Emphasis:

▪ Jurisdictions are encouraged to participate in the 287(g) program as part of their OPSG efforts when coordinated with and endorsed by USBP.

▪ Funding dedicated to support 287(g) activities under OPSG is encouraged but does not count toward the 10% minimum allocation required for the new “Supporting Border Crisis Response and

Enforcement” National…