Submitted by Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection
(July 7, 2026) — DESPP’S Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (DEMHS) is now accepting applications for the Connecticut Nonprofit Security Grant Program. The competitive grant program funds security improvements for eligible non-profit organizations, including houses of worship.
“Connecticut’s non-profits and houses of worship are the backbone of community life, providing services and support for the most vulnerable and spaces for communities to connect around shared ideals,” Governor Ned Lamont said. “We created this program so that these organizations have the financial assistance needed to keep their community safe and support the state’s overall public safety mission.”
The State Bond Commission approved five million dollars in additional funding for the grant program earlier this year. Since the creation of the program by Gov. Lamont and the General Assembly in 2021, approximately $15 million has been awarded to non-profits across Connecticut. “We are here for you. We are ready to work with you to make sure your communities feel safe to gather to worship, to meet, and to work without fear in Connecticut,” said DESPP Commissioner Ronnell A. Higgins. “I urge interested eligible groups to apply. We are ready to provide the access and support necessary to apply for these grants.”
WHO CAN APPLY: Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) organizations that are at heightened risk of being the target of a terrorist attack, hate crime, or violent act. A nonprofit organization applying for a grant must own the facility/building where security upgrades are being made to be eligible.
WHAT EXPENSES ARE ELIGIBLE: Nonprofits may apply for up to $50,000 in state assistance for video surveillance systems, electronic access controls, door hardening and reinforced entrances, entry vestibules, panic alarms, metal detectors, and more.
HOW TO APPLY: The application for the Connecticut Nonprofit Security Grant Program is here. More information about the grant program, as well as the Federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program, is available here. The deadline to apply is September 4, 2026.
WHAT IS REQUIRED: Applicants must provide details about their organization, audit information, a description of threats received, results of a security risk assessment, and a detailed budget including estimates, timelines, and invoices. Unlike most federal grant programs, which operate on a reimbursement basis, this program allows applicants to receive up to 50% of their total award upfront before the project is complete. This gives organizations with limited cash reserves the flexibility to move forward without paying for everything out of pocket.
CONTACT DESPP WITH QUESTIONS: Please reach out to DEMHS staff at DEMHS.CT-NSGP@ct.gov.
