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Funding & Grants for Security Enhancements: How to Explore Your Options

By Higher Information Group on March 20, 2025 | Technology Solutions

Upgrading physical security—such as implementing gun detection technology—can be a critical step in protecting schools, businesses, and nonprofit organizations. However, the cost of these enhancements can be a challenge. Fortunately, a variety of funding opportunities exist at the federal, state, and private levels to help cover the costs of security solutions.

While we do not provide grant-writing services, we’ve compiled a list of resources to help organizations begin to explore potential funding options.

Federal Grant Opportunities

Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP)

The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) provides funding for nonprofit organizations at high risk of terrorist attacks to enhance physical security measures. This grant is designed to integrate nonprofit preparedness efforts with broader state and local emergency preparedness initiatives.

Grants.gov
  • gov is the official portal for federal grant opportunities. It allows organizations to:
  • Search for grants by category, agency, or funding type
  • Register for an account to apply for grants
  • Access resources on grant eligibility and application requirements
SAM.gov Registration

To apply for most federal grants, organizations must register with SAM.gov (System for Award Management) and obtain a DUNS number, a unique identifier for businesses and nonprofits.

State and Local Grants

In addition to federal programs, many states offer funding for security improvements. Some key resources include:

  • State Agency Websites – Check the websites of your state’s emergency management or public safety department for available security grants.
  • Local Government Programs – County and municipal governments may have dedicated funding for security enhancements in schools, businesses, and community organizations.
  • Community Foundations – Nonprofits can explore funding through local foundations. Use the Community Foundation Locator to find options in your region.

Grants for Specific Sectors

K-12 Schools

Many security grants specifically target K-12 schools, with funding coming from state, federal, and private sources. Some are short-term, while others provide ongoing financial support. Schools should monitor their state’s Department of Education website for available funding.

Higher Education

While funding for colleges and universities may not be as frequent, grants do exist. Higher education institutions should regularly check Grants.gov and their state’s higher education agency for opportunities.

Private and Foundation Grants

Beyond government funding, several private organizations and foundations provide grants for security initiatives. Useful databases for identifying potential funding include:

  • Foundation Directory Online – A subscription-based tool with detailed information on private foundations.
  • GrantWatch – Lists a variety of grant opportunities, including security-related funding.
  • Candid Learning – Provides guidance on how to find and apply for grants.

Taking the Next Steps

While securing funding for security solutions requires research and planning, the resources above can serve as a starting point. Organizations looking to enhance security through technologies like gun detection should explore available grants and determine eligibility.

In today’s security landscape, a layered approach is considered best practice to protect people, property, and assets. No single solution can fully mitigate threats, which is why combining advanced surveillance, access control, and AI-powered gun detection is essential. The security solutions experts at HIG can provide security assessments and make recommendations tailored to your business needs.

Our NDAA-approved security cameras provide reliable, high-quality video monitoring, while door access solutions restrict unauthorized entry, helping to control who enters and exits a facility. By integrating ZeroEyes’ AI-driven gun detection, organizations can proactively identify threats before they escalate, reducing response times and enhancing situational awareness. This multi-layered security strategy strengthens overall protection, ensuring that businesses, schools, and public spaces remain as safe as possible in an unpredictable world.

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