Best Grant Resources for Fire Departments
With budget cuts becoming more common, fire departments are looking for ways to infuse new dollars into their operations to improve training, recruit new crewmembers, obtain new equipment, conduct CRR programs, and more. Fire grants are a great way to do this, but it can be challenging to know how to get started and improve your chances of winning the grant. Below are some of the top resources to help you navigate finding and applying for grants to benefit your fire department.
Grant Discovery Resources
You know there are numerous fire grants out there, but where do you start looking for one that might fit your department? Check out these reputable sources to see what is available to fit your needs and demographics.
- Rural Fire Department Grants
This guide from the USDA covers planning resources, funding and program assistance, training resources, and more to help rural fire departments find available grants and financial aid specific to their needs. - FEMA Grants
FEMA offers several grants through their Assistance to Firefighters Grants program. These grants cover everything from recruitment and retention to health and safety studies and equipment. - Gary Sinise Foundation
The Gary Sinise Foundation offers grants for equipment, training, and mobility devices for those first responders injured on the job. There is a focus on rural/volunteer fire departments.
Grant Writing Resources
Once you’ve found your potential grant, you’ll need to work on your application. The grant application process can be competitive and challenging, but there are available resources to help ensure your application stands out from the crowd.
- Grant Writing for the Fire & Emergency Services
This class from the NVFC teaches you had to write grant narratives that speak to fire/EMS grants’ needs. - 10 Steps to Writing a Grant Proposal
This article from IAFC offers ten ways you can plan out your grant application and proposal. - Firegrantshelp.com
This site offers paid and free direct services – including hands-on writing assistance – to prepare grant applications.
More Tips for Success
If you’d like to read more tips for creating a competitive grant application, check out our free resource, An Insider’s Guide to a Successful Fire Grant Application, featuring insight from an industry insider who has successfully received more than $4.5 million in grant funding over the last five years.