Notice of Funding Opportunity

Application due: November 16, Fiscal Year 2027

Counter Unmanned Aircraft

Systems (C-UAS) Grant

Program Assistance Listing Number: 97.161 Funding Opportunity Number: DHS-27-GPD-161-00-99

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Contents Before you begin 2

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 3

Basic information 4

Eligibility 5

Program Description 14

Step 2: Get Ready to Apply 21

Submission Requirements and Application Deadlines 22

Step 3: Write Your Application 25

Application Contents and Format 26

Step 4: Learn About the Award Review Process 30

Application Review Information 31

Intergovernmental Review 38

Step 5: Learn What Happens After Award 39

Award Notices 40

Post-Award Requirements and Administration 41

Other Information 50

Contacts and Appendices 59

Contacts 60

Appendices 62

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 (800)-323-8603 and TTY (844)-889-4357

To help you find what you need, this funding notice 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/

Step 1: Review the Opportunity

In this step

Basic information 4

Eligibility 5

Program description 14

Jump to a step

Basic Information A. Award Facts

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

Assistance Listing Number: 97.161

Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) Title: Fiscal Year 2027 Counter

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) Grant Program

Funding Opportunity Number: DHS-27-GPD-161-00-99

Announcement Type: Initial

Expected Award Range: $760,000 – $25 million

Expected Total Funding: $250 million

Anticipated Number of Awards: 56 awards

B. Executive Summary The Counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) Grant Program, established under the Working Families Tax Cut Act, 2025 (Pub. L. No. 119-

21, Sec. 90005(a)), provides $500 million in funding to enhance state and local capabilities to detect, identify, track, or monitor unmanned aircraft systems (as defined in 49 U.S.C. § 44801), consistent with Titles 18 and 49 of the U.S.C. This funding supports U.S. state, local, tribal, and territorial governments in combatting the unlawful use of unmanned aircraft systems that pose a threat to the safety and security of the American people, communities, and institutions, critical infrastructure, and sensitive government operations, consistent with the SAFER SKIES ACT (Pub. L. No.

119-60) and the 6 C.F.R. Part 124, Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System

Authority for state, local, tribal, and territorial law enforcement and correctional agencies.

Using C-UAS Grant Program funds, eligible governments and their subrecipients may purchase unmanned aircraft system (UAS) Detection, Identifying, Monitoring, Tracking, and Mitigation (DIMT-M) technologies to support public safety officials in the protection of the public and critical infrastructure from nefarious or unlawful use of UAS consistent with 6 U.S.C. § 124n and 6 C.F.R. 124. The operation of certain detection and all mitigation technologies will be limited to accredited law enforcement and correctional agencies that meet the training, certification, accreditation, and authorized technology requirements of 6 C.F.R. 124 described in this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO).

Key Dates

Projected Application Start

Date: October 16, 2026

Projected Application End

Date: November 16, 2026

Anticipated Funding Selection

Date: December 2, 2026

Anticipated Award Date:

December 10, 2026

Projected Period of

Performance Start Date:

December 10, 2026

Projected Period of

Performance End Date:

December 9, 2029

Budget Period: December 10, 2026 – December 9, 2029

Have questions? See Contacts and Support

For Fiscal Year 2026, DHS/FEMA prioritized $250 million in funding for the 11 states who directly or indirectly hosted FIFA World Cup 2026 events and the National Capital Region (NCR), which served as the host of the national America 250 events.

For Fiscal Year 2027, the remaining $250 million will be distributed to all 56 states and territories, with a focus on building national detection and response capacity across the nation, generally, as well as an expanded focus on supporting the 2028 Summer Olympics and Paralympics. Crucially, this round of funding must be strategically leveraged to support the Olympic torch relay, representing a vital operational priority to secure the relay's expansive domestic route and ensure seamless interagency coordination before the opening ceremonies. The 2028 Summer Olympics and Paralympics in Los Angeles have been designated as a National Special Security Event (NSSE), and official ancillary events have been designated as Special Event Assessment Rating (SEAR) events. Jurisdictions will receive statutory minimums established under the State Homeland Security Grant Program, with additional funds allocated based on the DHS Terrorism Risk Methodology and the anticipated effectiveness of proposed projects as determined during the post award effectiveness review process.

Eligibility A. Eligible Entities

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

The C-UAS Grant Program funds are being allocated across two fiscal years (FY 2026 and FY 2027), each with distinct eligibility criteria and program focus. Below is a detailed breakdown of eligibility, funding structure, compliance requirements, and allowable project types.

Applicant Eligibility

The State Administrative Agency (SAA) is the only entity eligible to submit C-UAS applications to

DHS/FEMA. C-UAS 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.

Tribal governments are not eligible to apply directly for C-UAS Grant Program funding but may participate as subrecipients through their respective SAA.

Subapplicant Eligibility

Subapplicants and subawards are allowed.

1. Eligible Subrecipients

In accordance with 2 C.F.R. § 200.1, 6 U.S.C. Chapter 1, and program-specific guidance, State

Administrative Agents (SAAs) may issue subawards to eligible state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) government entities, including city and county agencies, law enforcement, correctional agencies, fire services, emergency medical services, emergency management, and other qualifying public safety

1. Review 2. Get ready 3. Write 4. Learn 5. Award Contacts organizations. These subrecipients carry out approved C-UAS Grant Program projects that further program goals consistent with federal law and the authorities applicable to the subrecipients.

The authority to purchase this equipment is not the same to operationally utilize the equipment.

Subawards for mitigation equipment, or for detection equipment or services that require the authority of 6

U.S.C. § 124n, may be issued to any eligible subrecipient, including a regional or intergovernmental consortium, provided that the application identifies, for each such system, the SLTT law enforcement or correctional agency that will exercise operational control of the system (the designated operating agency).

Only an SLTT law enforcement or correctional agency may be accredited under 6 C.F.R. Part 124, and only its own certified officers or employees may operate the system, make credible threat determinations, or execute mitigation actions (6 C.F.R. § 124.4). A subrecipient that is not itself the designated operating agency may own, house, maintain, and transport the equipment but may not exercise operational control of it. The subrecipient and each designated operating agency must execute a written agreement, submitted with the Investment Justification, establishing the designated operating agency’s custody and control of the system during operations. FEMA will verify the accreditation and certification status of each designated operating agency with the National Counter-UAS Training Center (NCUTC). (Reminder: The designated operating agency must be accredited under 6 C.F.R. § 124.6 before the system is operated.)

Subrecipient funding should prioritize agencies that provide first response and law enforcement capabilities in support of the protection of soft targets and crowded places, including public venues and events. The C-UAS Grant Program is not primarily intended to support correctional facility enforcement activities, except where such activities are directly tied to approved program goals, allowable costs, and applicable federal authorities.

These subrecipients carry out approved C-UAS Grant Program projects that further program goals consistent with federal law and the authorities applicable to the subrecipients.

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

B. Phased Program Structure This grant had a phased Fiscal Year (FY) grant structure to support the goals of expanding capabilities to coordinate a comprehensive sports diplomacy strategy, maximize the impact of hosting major events, and highlight American values and culture to international audiences.

FY 2026:

Eligibility: For FY 2026, the C-UAS Grant Program eligibility was limited to the SAAs representing the 11 states and the National Capitol Region (NCR) (represented by the District of Columbia as the eligible applicant on behalf of Maryland and Virginia) hosting (directly or indirectly) FIFA World Cup 2026 and national America 250 events, most of which were SEAR 1 or 2 rated events. This phased approach prioritized jurisdictions facing elevated operational and security demands.

Funding Structure: Each of these states and the NCR received statutory minimum allocations as defined under the State Homeland Security Grant Program, with additional funds awarded competitively based on

1. Review 2. Get ready 3. Write 4. Learn 5. Award Contacts the SEAR level of hosted events and the effectiveness of proposed projects as determined by post award effectiveness review results.

FY 2027:

Eligibility: The remaining $250 million in C-UAS Grant Program funds will be distributed in FY 2027, with eligibility expanded to all states and territories. This round is designed to support the development of nationwide detection and response capabilities overall and in support of the 2028 Olympic and

Paralympic Games, including the nationwide torch relay.

Funding Structure: Section 90005(a)(1)(A) of the Working Families Tax Cut Act appropriates funds for the

C-UAS Grant Program under the authorizing statute for the State Homeland Security Grant Program. This statute identifies SAAs in each state and territory as the sole eligible applicants for these funds. It also establishes the following statutory minimums for states and territories to ensure equitable distribution:

• States, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia: Each will receive at least 0.35% of total funds appropriated ($3,325,000).

• American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands: Each will receive at least 0.08% of total funds appropriated ($760,000).

This framework ensures that all jurisdictions, regardless of size, receive baseline funding to enhance their capabilities to address UAS-related threats while allowing for competitive allocations to address specific security needs.

How the Minimums are Calculated: The Working Families Tax Cuts Act appropriated funds to be administered under the State Homeland Security Grant Program (SHSGP) to enhance state, local, and tribal security through grants, contracts, cooperative agreements, and other activities. Specifically, the appropriations include:

• $500,000,000 for state and local capabilities to detect, identify, track, or monitor threats from unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS program), consistent with Titles 18 and 49 of the U.S.C.

• $625,000,000 for security and other costs related to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

• $1,000,000,000 for security, planning, and other costs related to the 2028 Olympics and Paralympics.

• $450,000,000 for the Operation Stonegarden Grant Program.

Under 6 U.S.C. § 605(e)(1), states (including Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia) must receive 0.35% of appropriated funds, and territories (American Samoa, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands, and the

Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) must receive 0.08%. However, pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, funding for the FIFA and Olympics programs is exempt from the minimum allocation requirements established under the Homeland Security Act of 2002, as amended. As a result, the statutorily required state minimums percentage for the C-UAS program are calculated based on the total of the allocations for the C-UAS Grant Program and Operation Stonegarden.

For example, the combined funding total is $950,000,000; therefore, the applicable statutory minimum allocations are $3,325,000 for each state, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia, and $760,000 for each territory.

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C. Project Type Eligibility Allowable Project Types

Allowable costs for C-UAS Grant Program fall into the following categories: (1) Planning, (2) Organization,

(3) Equipment, (4) Training, and (5) Exercises. Please see “Allowable Costs” outlined in this guidance for more information on allowable costs.

To the extent possible, costs should be in support of National Special Security Event or Special Event

Assessment Rating (SEAR) events, including prioritizing C-UAS planning and capabilities that address preparation for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Torch Relay, and other ancillary events.

All costs must have a demonstrated nexus to achieving target capabilities related to preventing, preparing for, protecting against, and responding to acts of terrorism in accordance with 6 U.S.C. §§ 609(a) and

605(a). Funds may also be used in a manner than enhances preparedness for disasters unrelated to acts of terrorism, if such use assists such governments in achieving target capabilities related to preventing, preparing for, protecting against, or responding to acts of terrorism, pursuant to 6 U.S.C. § 609(c).

DHS strongly encourages awardees to use this grant to procure active radar or passive radar capabilities with a mission-appropriate use case and a basic siting, coverage, and integration concept. Radar provides a critical non-cooperative detection capability. Unlike Radio Frequency (RF) detection systems, which generally depend on the presence of command-and-control signals, Remote ID, or other emissions, radar can detect and track UAS based on their physical presence. This is essential for identifying UAS that are autonomous, pre-programmed, modified to limit emissions, operating without Remote ID, or otherwise not emitting RF signals. Radar also strengthens a layered C-UAS architecture by providing track continuity, cueing Electro-Optical (EO)/Infrared (IR) sensors, supporting operator assessment, and improving the ability of public safety entities to maintain low-altitude air domain awareness during NSSE, SEAR, critical infrastructure, and other high-risk events.

If there are questions about specific expenses, contact your FEMA Preparedness Officer.

National Priorities

Applicants should demonstrate how allowable project activities will address national-level risk that aligns with EO 14239.

Unallowable Project Types

Certain project types are not eligible for C-UAS Grant Program funding. For more information, refer to Section 3.E: Program-Specific Unallowable Costs in the program guidance.

D. 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.

https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2025-04973.pdf

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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 shall not have foreign nationals or Aliens included.

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.

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

1. One per SAA

F. Additional Restrictions Under the C-UAS Grant Program, there are specific funding guidelines / requirements for allocating funds:

Statutory Minimum Pass-Through Requirements

Per 6 U.S.C. § 609(a)(12), the states may retain up to 3% of awarded funds to pay expenses directly related to the administration of the grant (i.e., Management and Administration (M&A) costs). SAAs must pass through at least 97% of funds to eligible subrecipients.

The SAA may retain up to 20% of the total awarded funding for justified state-level equipment purchases or activities that benefit state law enforcement agencies or address other statewide needs for this technology, to the extent permitted by the NOFO, PGM, and award terms.

Additionally, the SAA may satisfy pass-through requirements by providing funds, items, services, activities, or a combination thereof for the benefit of eligible subrecipients, provided the SAA obtains appropriate written consent, such as an MOU/MOA or other written agreement, from the affected subrecipients. Any such written agreement must identify the amount or value to be provided, the intended use of funds, the goods or services to be provided in lieu of cash where applicable, and the roles and responsibilities of the

SAA and subrecipient.

For detailed information on pass-through requirements, please refer to Section 8, "Award Notices," in the

NOFO.

Training Requirement 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

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The Attorney General, acting through the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, designates the

NCUTC as the national schoolhouse and sole certifying authority for personnel exercising mitigation authorities under 6 U.S.C. § 124n(b)(1)(C), (D), and (F), as required by 6 U.S.C §124n(d)(2)(A)(i).

Prior to purchase, applicants should include proof of registration and, where applicable, certification with their grant application and maintain this documentation for compliance purposes.

For equipment that provides mitigation capability, have personnel who hold a current Mitigation

Certification issued by the NCUTC, or who are enrolled in or scheduled for the NCUTC mitigation training course.

• For equipment that provides DTIM capabilities subject to the authority of 6 U.S.C. § 124n (currently, radio frequency detection systems that intercept or access UAS control communications), have personnel who hold a current NCUTC Detection and Warning Certification, or who are enrolled in or scheduled for the NCUTC mitigation training course.

• Note: The Detection and Warning curriculum is online, is provided at no cost through the NCUTC

Training Portal and has no enrollment waitlist.

• Detection equipment that does not require the authority of 6 U.S.C. § 124n (for example, radar, electro-optical and infrared cameras, acoustic sensors, and Remote ID receivers) is not subject to this requirement.

Reminder: Enrollment satisfies procurement eligibility only; if it does not authorize operation. Before conducting any operation under 6 U.S.C. § 124n(a)(2), requirements include complete agency accreditation under § 124.6: adopt an agency implementation policy (or, for detection and warning only, a detection and warning policy under § 124.6(g)), obtain legal counsel review, and attest through the Federal

C-UAS Coordination Portal. The attestation must be renewed annually. Model policies are available on the portal.

FEMA will verify enrollment, certification, and accreditation status with the Federal Bureau of Investigation

(FBI) NCUTC. The NCUTC certification database records all certifications issued under § 124.5 of 6 C.F.R.

Part 124, and the Federal C-UAS Coordination Portal records each agency’s accreditation attestation under § 124.6. Upon request from FEMA to ncutc@fbi.gov, the NCUTC will confirm Detection and Warning

Certification, Mitigation Certification, mitigation course enrollment, and accreditation status (including attestation date and renewal status) for each designated operating agency identified in an application and will re-verify upon any reported change in designated operating agency.

For more information on funding restrictions, refer to General Funding Requirements.

Use and Certification Requirement

All agencies and personnel using UAS mitigation technologies purchased or supported with C-UAS Grant

Program funds must ensure that all mitigation operations are conducted in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. See 6 U.S.C. § 124n and 6 C.F.R. Part 124. Possession of mitigation equipment does not authorize its use.

A mitigation action under 6 U.S.C. § 124n(a)(2) may be taken only by an officer or employee of an

1. Review 2. Get ready 3. Write 4. Learn 5. Award Contacts accredited SLTT law enforcement or correctional agency who holds a current NCUTC Mitigation

Certification and a valid FAA remote pilot certificate under 14 C.F.R. Part 107, using a system authorized under § 124.7, under a C-UAS Operations Plan coordinated in accordance with §§ 124.8 through 124.11.

Equipment that is not regularly used or is used outside of authorized purposes may be subject to recall or recovery, and recipients may be required to return grant funds to FEMA.

Allowable Costs - Authorized Mitigation Equipment

Equipment costs are allowed under this program only as described in this funding notice only.

Mitigation equipment purchased with grant funds must be within a technology category on the Authorized

Technology List (ATL) and, where the Authorized Systems List (ASL) has been populated for that category, must be a system listed on the ASL, in accordance with § 124.7 of 6 CFR Part 124.

Under this NOFO, authorized mitigation equipment is limited to technology that provides not just portable, but mobile capabilities. As such, allowable mitigation equipment costs are limited to hand-held or vehicle-emplaced mobile equipment.

If a Recipient lacks the full cycle of C-UAS DIMT-M equipment, it would be expected for a proposal to include the full chain of detection, identification, monitoring, tracking, and mitigation of such activity.

Funds for C-UAS mitigation capabilities may only be authorized where the application identifies, for each mitigation system, a designated operating agency (an SLTT law enforcement or correctional agency) that meets the Training Requirement and the Use and Certification Requirement in Section 2 of this NOFO, including NCUTC Mitigation Certification (or enrollment) for named personnel and agency accreditation under 6 C.F.R. Part 124.

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

Legal Considerations

6 U.S.C. § 124n(a)(2), as amended by the SAFER SKIES Act (contained in the National Defense Authorization

Act for FY26, Pub. L. No. 119-60), authorizes state, local tribal, or territorial (SLTT) law enforcement or correctional agencies and their personnel to take C-UAS actions as described in 6 U.S.C. § 124n(b)(1), such as detection, warning, and mitigation, to eliminate a credible threat posed by a UAS or unmanned aircraft to the safety or security of people, a facility or asset. As provided in 6 U.S.C. 124n(a)(2), actions taken by

SLTT law enforcement and correctional agencies and their personnel in compliance with the statute and implementing regulations may be taken notwithstanding 49 U.S.C. § 46502, 18 U.S.C. Chps. 119 and 206, and 18 U.S.C. §§ 32, 1030, and 1367, and notwithstanding the laws of any particular state, local, tribal, or territorial jurisdiction. An SLTT law enforcement or correctional agency and its personnel exercising authority under 6 U.S.C. § 124n(a)(2) must conduct operations in accordance with 6 U.S.C. § 124n, as amended and as implemented by 6 C.F.R. Part 124, and 28 C.F.R. Part 124.

The SAFER SKIES Act has been implemented by 6 C.F.R. Part 124, and 28 C.F.R. Part 124. An SLTT law enforcement or correctional agency may conduct C-UAS operations in one of two ways: (1) independently,

1. Review 2. Get ready 3. Write 4. Learn 5. Award Contacts under 6 U.S.C. § 124n(a)(2), as an accredited agency in compliance with 6 C.F.R. Part 124 and 28 C.F.R. Part

124; or (2) as a deputized or detailed participant in a federal operation under 6 U.S.C. § 124n(a)(1), including through an FBI Counter-UAS Task Force or other federal deputization arrangement, governed by the policies of the sponsoring federal component. Neither path requires the other ( § 124.19).

Funds for C-UAS mitigation capabilities may only be authorized where the application identifies a designated operating agency (an SLTT law enforcement or correctional agency) that meets the Training

Requirement and the Use and Certification Requirement in Section 2 of this NOFO. Mitigation systems purchased with grant funds shall be operated only (1) by the designated operating agency’s own certified personnel under 6 U.S.C. § 124n(a)(2) and 6 C.F.R. Part 124, or (2) in a federal operation under 6 U.S.C. §

124n(a)(1), under the authority and supervision of the sponsoring federal component.

Technology Support

When considering various C-UAS equipment or services, SLTT public safety entities may engage the DHS

Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) National Urban Security Technology Laboratory (NUSTL) for further guidance through NUSTL@hq.dhs.gov or through the FBI NCUTC. NUSTL has knowledge products and technical advisory services available to public safety entities. These advisory services will be provided for informational purposes only. Guidance received is not binding and lacks the force and effect of law, unless expressly authorized by statute or expressly incorporated into a contract, grant, or cooperative agreement. Inclusion of a system on the ASL reflects completion of interagency technical review and is not an endorsement, recommendation, or performance guarantee by the United States; recipients remain responsible for their own procurement diligence and cybersecurity assessment.

Purchased equipment that requires the authority of 6 U.S.C. § 124n must comply with 6 C.F.R. § 124.7, Authorized Technologies. Any system that emits radio frequency energy also requires FCC authorization and advance FAA coordination under 6 C.F.R. § 124.9 before it operates. Systems on the ASL carry a standing FCC authorization (FCC DA 26-656), but advance coordination with the FAA remains required.

Participate in Data Sharing

DHS, DOJ, Department of Energy (DOE), Department of War (DOW), the Federal Aviation Administration

(FAA), the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and the National Telecommunications and

Information Administration (NTIA), and other C-UAS operating entities may request data from grant recipients for C-UAS operations that include but are not limited to public safety and national security. As allowed by applicable jurisdictional records retention policies, data sharing restrictions, and information law, and consistent with the data retention, minimization, and dissemination requirements of 6 C.F.R. Part

124, the grant recipient shall ensure the efficient and reasonable data sharing with DHS, DOJ, DOE, DOW C-

UAS operating entities, which may include by entering a vendor contract to facilitate such efforts. Such data sharing mechanisms may include but are not limited to data output file transfer, limited viewer access, or shared cloud access.

As allowed by applicable local jurisdictional records retention policies and information law, the grant recipient may identify other SLTT public safety entities with mutual interest in UAS detection and tracking.

After identifying SLTT public safety partners, the grant recipient may enter a vendor contract which allows for identified partner public safety entities to access data as a user.

mailto:NUSTL@hq.dhs.gov

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Federal Access to Data Obtained via Grant Program Hardware

1. As a condition of this award, the recipient and any subrecipient that purchases, leases, subscribes to, operates, or receives access to UAS detection hardware, software, services, sensor fusion platforms, or data-as-a-service capabilities with grant funds must share relevant detection data with DHS, as directed by FEMA or another DHS-designated office, to support nationwide low-altitude air domain awareness.

2. The recipient must ensure that grant-funded systems and associated vendor agreements permit secure DHS access to relevant detection data, including UAS detection events, tracks, Remote ID or other lawful identifier information, sensor metadata, system status information, and related alert or airspace awareness data, to the extent generated by the system and permitted by applicable law. Data sharing may occur through automated data feeds, secure file transfer, application programming interfaces, limited viewer access, shared cloud access, vendor-facilitated access, or other DHS-approved mechanisms.

3. The recipient must implement this requirement consistent with applicable law, regulation, award terms, privacy, civil rights, civil liberties, cybersecurity, records-retention, and information-sharing requirements. This condition does not authorize interception of protected communications, access to communications content, or C-UAS mitigation activity except as otherwise authorized by law and in compliance with 6 U.S.C. § 124n, 6 C.F.R. Part 124, and 28 C.F.R. Part 124.

4. The recipient must include sufficient terms in all relevant subawards, contracts, subscriptions, licenses, and service agreements to ensure compliance with this requirement. Failure to comply may result in corrective action, payment holds, disallowance of costs, suspension, termination, or other remedies available under 2 C.F.R. Part 200 and the terms of the award.

G. 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.

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

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

J. Cost Share Example

K. Required Information for Verifying Cost Share

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Maintenance of Effort

C-UAS state funds must supplement existing funds and not supplant funds appropriated for the same purpose. Applicants/recipients may be required to provide documentation certifying that reductions in non-federal resources occurred for reasons other than receipt or expected receipt of federal funds.

Program Description A. Program Purpose

The C-UAS Grant Program was established in Fiscal Year 2026 under Section 90005(a) of the Working

Families Tax Cut Act, 2025 (Pub. L. No. 119-21), in direct response to growing national security concerns surrounding the unlawful or nefarious use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).

The program’s priorities are shaped by Executive Order 14305, “Restoring American Airspace Sovereignty,” and recommendations from the White House Task Force to Restore American Airspace Sovereignty and subject matter experts from the field. In Fiscal Year 2026, these priorities specifically address the elevated security demands of high-profile events, including the FIFA World Cup 2026 and national America 250 celebrations. In Fiscal Year 2027, these priorities specifically address the elevated security demands of

NSSE and SEAR events across the country, to include the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Although data is still being gathered, the C-UAS program funded technology has been used to detect, track, identify and mitigate thousands of unauthorized drones near large event venues including FIFA

World Cup 2026 and America 250. This important security measure fills a critical capability gap among first responders and reduces the vulnerability of soft targets and crowded places in which unauthorized drones could be used to deliver harm to susceptible Americans in large public venues.

The C-UAS Grant Program provides resources to state and local agencies, first responders, and public safety entities to detect, track, identify, and—where authorized—mitigate UAS threats, ensuring the safety of the public, critical infrastructure, and sensitive government operations.

B. Goals and Objectives The C-UAS Grant Program’s primary objective is to ensure SLTT law enforcement agencies have the resources, training, and operational capacity to detect, track, identify, and—where authorized—mitigate

UAS threats.

The program’s goals are to:

1. Strengthen national preparedness by equipping SLTT agencies with C-UAS Grant Program capabilities.

2. Protect critical infrastructure, mass gatherings, and sensitive government operations from UAS threats.

3. Support the deployment of fixed or portable systems for UAS detection, tracking, identification, and— where authorized—mitigation, consistent with applicable laws. DHS is strongly recommending radar systems. While mitigation technology continues to improve and shift, the detection, identification,

1. Review 2. Get ready 3. Write 4. Learn 5. Award Contacts tracking, and monitoring capabilities are a crucial first stage for most jurisdictions to provide C-UAS support. Radar provides a critical non-cooperative detection capability. Radar systems can support persistent low-altitude airspace awareness, detect small UAS, support track continuity, and cue other sensors such as EO/IR or mitigation systems. Radar receives higher prioritization because it can detect

UAS that are not emitting RF signals, including autonomous or pre-programmed drones, and therefore provides a critical capability not available through RF-only detection.

The stated goals, objectives, and priorities of the C-UAS Grant Program support Section 6(c) of Executive

Order 14305, “Restoring American Airspace Sovereignty.”

FEMA created the C-UAS Grant Program to ensure that SLTT law enforcement agencies receive funds to purchase DIMT-M equipment or services for the detection, tracking, identification, and mitigation of UA and UAS signals consistent with the legal authorities of those SLTTs.1 Under this grant program, SLTT entities and first responder and/or public safety entities may use federal funds through grant programs to purchase mobile systems that can detect, identify, monitor, track, and mitigate UAS threats consistent with applicable laws.

C. Performance Measures and Targets As a newly implemented program, targeted performance may be adjusted subsequently as additional supporting information becomes available. Recipients will be required to share activity information including:

1. Total number of hours each system is in active use since acquisition (targets case-by-case per recipient);

2. Cumulative number of UAS detections made by the systems, including repeated detections of the same UAS (targets case-by-case per recipient);

3. Number of distinct UAS identified, ensuring that multiple detections of the same UAS are counted as a single unique event (targets case-by-case per recipient); and

4. Total number of criminal investigations launched based on intelligence provided by the C-UAS systems (targets case-by-case per recipient).

Short-term targets/measures:

Fund the purchase and implementation of C-UAS technology:

1. Percentage of funds utilized for purchase of C-UAS equipment. (Target 70%)

2. Percentage of funds utilized for purchase of C-UAS services (contracted C-UAS capabilities). (Target

10%)

3. Percentage of funds utilized for training personnel in the operation of C-UAS technology. (Target 20%)

Mid- to long-term targets:

1. 80% of mitigation systems procured through the C-UAS Grant Program used to protect the 2028

Olympic and Paralympic Games, torch relay, and other National Special Security Events or Special

1 Exec. Order No. 14305, 90 FR 24719 (2025).

https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/06/restoring-american-airspace-sovereignty/

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Event Assessment Rating activities in conjunction with federal authorities, only 20% usage during the period of performance should support events that are not of National significance.

2. Successfully identify and classify 90% of detected UAS threats (e.g., distinguishing between commercial, recreational, and potentially malicious UAS).

3. Launch criminal investigations on 100% of identified violations of civil and criminal laws when UAS operators endanger the public, violate established airspace restrictions, or operate a UAS in furtherance of an element of another crime.

Recipients will be required to share activity in the Close-Out Reporting section below.

D. Federal Assistance Type Grant

E. Program-Specific Unallowable Costs The following projects and costs are considered ineligible for award consideration:

• C-UAS mitigation equipment is not authorized if it is not mobile;

• General-use facility expenditures, to include, but not limited to ordinary facility maintenance, contracts for maintenance, and specifically backup or emergency generators;

• General vehicle maintenance, service contracts, or warranties for projects or equipment not funded by the grant award.

• Expenditures for items such as general-use software (word processing, spreadsheet, graphics, etc.), general-use computers and related equipment (other than for allowable M&A activities, or otherwise associated preparedness or response functions), general-use vehicles, licensing fees, recurring operating costs (e.g., cell phone services, maintenance contracts);

o Note: the purchase and modification of vehicles to permit the use of vehicle-mounted C-UAS

DTIM-Ms system is authorized; vehicles and trailers dedicated to equipment transportation are allowable.

• Organizational operating expenses;

• Personnel costs, to include, but not limited to, overtime and backfill (except as detailed within this

NOFO). Personnel costs are only allowable when directly related to the purpose of the NOFO and approved projects;

• Activities not directly related to the completion or implementation of C-UAS Grant Program-funded projects and activities;

• Other indirect costs (meaning property purchase, depreciation, or amortization expenses);

• Initiatives in which federal agencies are the beneficiary or that enhance federal property;

• Initiatives which study technology development;

• Proof-of-concept initiatives;

Per FEMA policy and published in Information Bulletin No. 530, the purchase of weapons and weapons accessories, including ammunition, is not allowed with C-UAS 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. (For the purposes of this NOFO, “weaponized” aircraft, vessels, or vehicles, do not include approved kinetic or non-kinetic mitigation https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_recission_of_prohibited-controlled_equipment_policy_information_bulletin.pdf

1. Review 2. Get ready 3. Write 4. Learn 5. Award Contacts technologies on the Authorized Technologies List established pursuant to 6 C.F.R. Part 124.)

Note: The above may not be exhaustive. Please consult the applicable terms and conditions and with

FEMA for more information.

F. General Funding Requirements Costs charged to federal awards (including federal and non-federal cost share funds) must comply with applicable statutes, rules and regulations, policies, this NOFO, and the terms and conditions of the federal award. This includes, among other requirements, that costs must be incurred, and products and services must be delivered within the budget period (see 2 C.F.R. § 200.403(h)).

Recipients may not use federal funds or any cost share funds for the following activities:

1. Matching or cost sharing requirements for other federal grants and cooperative agreements (see

2 C.F.R. § 200.306).

2. Lobbying or other prohibited activities under 18 U.S.C. § 1913 or 2 C.F.R. § 200.450.

3. Prosecuting claims against the federal government or any other government entity (see 2 C.F.R. §

200.435).

4. Any activities inconsistent with Federal laws and any laws or regulations applicable to their jurisdiction. Such activities must also be consistent with the First and Fourth Amendments to the

Constitution.

G. Prohibition on Covered Equipment or Services

FEMA provides additional resources regarding the prohibition on covered telecommunications equipment and services in its policy titled Prohibitions on Expending FEMA Award Funds for Covered

Telecommunications Equipment or Services (FEMA Policy #405-143-1). This policy outlines specific requirements related to the prohibition. Additionally, FEMA's Contract Provisions Guide offers sample language for the required contract provisions.

Recipients, subrecipients, and their contractors or subcontractors must comply with the prohibitions set forth in Section 889 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019, which restrict the purchase of covered telecommunications and surveillance equipment and services. See 2

C.F.R. §§ 200.216, 200.327, 200.471, and Appendix II to 2 C.F.R. Part 200 for more information.

Prohibition on Covered Foreign Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

Recipients, subrecipients, and their contractors or subcontractors must also comply with Section 1825 of the American Security Drone Act of 2023, enacted as part of the National Defense Authorization Act for

Fiscal Year 2024 (Pub. L. No. 118-31 §§ 1821-33, 41 U.S.C. 3901 note prec.). This provision mandates that, beginning December 22, 2025, no federal funds awarded through a contract, grant, or cooperative agreement, or otherwise made available may be used to procure a covered unmanned aircraft system

(UAS) that is manufactured or assembled by a covered foreign entity. Significantly, no funds may be used in connection with the operation of such a drone or UAS. For more information, refer to Public Law 118-31 and OMB Memorandum M-26-02, Ensuring Government Use of Secure Unmanned Aircraft Systems and

Supporting United States Producers.

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-E/subject-group-ECFRea20080eff2ea53/section-200.403 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/section-200.306 https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:18%20section:1913%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title18-section1913)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-E/subject-group-ECFRed1f39f9b3d4e72/section-200.450 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-E/subject-group-ECFRed1f39f9b3d4e72/section-200.435 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-E/subject-group-ECFRed1f39f9b3d4e72/section-200.435 https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_policy-405-143-1-prohibition-covered-services-equipment-gpd.pdf https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_policy-405-143-1-prohibition-covered-services-equipment-gpd.pdf https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_contract-provisions-guide_fy24.pdf https://www.govinfo.gov/link/plaw/115/public/232 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.216 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.216 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.327 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.471 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/appendix-Appendix%20II%20to%20Part%20200 https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/2670 https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/2670 https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/2670 https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/M-26-02-Ensuring-Government-Use-of-Secure-Unmanned-Aircraft-Systems-and-Supporting-United-States-Producers.pdf https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/M-26-02-Ensuring-Government-Use-of-Secure-Unmanned-Aircraft-Systems-and-Supporting-United-States-Producers.pdf

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H. Beneficiary and Participant Eligibility Beneficiary

Not Applicable

Participant

Not Applicable

This NOFO and any subsequent federal awards create no rights or causes of action for any beneficiary or participant. Please consult the DHS Standard Terms and Conditions, your awarding agency’s terms and conditions, and your awarding documents for more details.

I. Indirect Costs

Indirect costs are NOT allowed.

J. Budget Period There will be only a single budget period with the same start and end dates as the period of performance.

K. Pre-Award Costs Pre-award costs are not allowed. However, the period of performance will be established as beginning on

December 10, 2026, thereby authorizing incurring costs on or after that date.

L. Management and Administration Costs M&A costs are allowed.

Primary Recipients (SAAs) can use up to 3%, and sub-recipients may use up to 3% of their C-UAS Grant

Program funds for M&A purposes. M&A are not overhead costs but are necessary direct costs incurred in direct support of the federal award or as a consequence of it, such as travel, meeting-related expenses, and salaries of full/part-time staff in direct support of the program. As such, M&A costs can be itemized in financial reports.

M. Authorizing Authority Section 2004 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (Pub. L. No. 107-296, as amended) (6 U.S.C. § 605).

N. Appropriation Authority Section 90005(a)(1)(A) of the Working Families Tax Cut Act, 2025 (Pub. L. No. 119-21).

O. Mutual Aid It shall be the responsibility of each recipient State (Party) or Territory to agree to provide mutual aid from each other Party procuring equipment under this NOFO in order to ensure interstate cooperation in the

1. Review 2. Get ready 3. Write 4. Learn 5. Award Contacts performance of the responsibilities of this grant, consistent with 6 C.F.R. § 124.4(c). Similar to a state’s participation under the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), required under 4.b., and in recognition of the drone threat that transcends political jurisdictional boundaries, intergovernmental coordination and support is essential to ensure the safety and security of the American people.

DHS/FEMA is requiring that Parties agree to the following, and include a requirement for any sub-recipient, that:

1. Request. A Party may request assistance by another Party, or subrecipient state or local law enforcement entity, by contacting the authorized representative of that Party. The provisions of this requirement shall only apply to requests for assistance made by and to authorized representatives. Requests may be verbal or in writing. If verbal, the request shall be confirmed in writing within thirty days of the verbal request. Requests shall provide the following information:

a. A description of the C-UAS service function for which assistance is needed;

b. The amount and type of personnel, equipment, materials and supplies needed, and a reasonable estimate of the length of time they will be needed; and

c. The specific place and time for staging of the assisting party’s response and a point of contact at that location.

2. Invocation. These conditions may be activated, as needed, on a condition for mutual aid including, but not limited to, support of the federal, state, and local law enforcement during the 2028 Olympic and

Paralympic Games, and ancillary events.

3. Resources.