Mayor Bowser Encourages District Nonprofits and Houses of Worship to Apply for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program

(Washington, DC) - Mayor Muriel Bowser and the District of Columbia Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency (HSEMA) are encouraging eligible nonprofit organizations and houses of worship located in the District of Columbia to apply for federal grant funding to strengthen physical security and other preparedness measures. The grants, managed by HSEMA, are part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP).

"In good times and in bad, nonprofits and houses of worship bring our community together around our shared DC values," said Mayor Bowser. "Protecting our progress means ensuring they have the resources to continue their mission safely and without fear. These grants support organizations that uplift our community and strengthen our city."

This year, eligible organizations may apply for up to $200,000 per location, with organizations operating multiple locations able to submit up to three applications, for a total of $600,000 per organization. NSGP funding can be used to purchase and install security measures such as:

• Access control systems
• Bollards, barriers, and fencing
• Blast-resistant doors and windows
• Cybersecurity enhancements
• CCTV and other security camera systems
• Contracted security personnel

"When disaster strikes, nonprofits and houses of worship often provide essential response services, helping coordinate crucial aid and volunteers. NSGP funding is an opportunity for impact-based organizations to shore up their security measures to continue their important work," said HSEMA Director Clint Osborn. "As the threats nonprofits and houses of worship face continue to evolve, we are working to increase the safety and security of District residents and visitors. Facilitating this grant funding is one way HSEMA is helping increase resilience and safety in our communities."

Nonprofit organizations eligible for NSGP funding include:

• Houses of worship
• Camps
• Educational facilities
• Medical facilities
• Museums
• Senior care centers
• Shelters and crisis centers

Applicants must be certified 501(c)(3) organizations to qualify for funding opportunities. The deadline to apply is January 9, 2026.

In addition to the NSGP, the District also manages the Safe and Secure DC Nonprofit Fund, which is designed to enhance safety and security at nonprofit organizations across the District. In FY26, Mayor Bowser and the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Public Safety and Justice (DMPSJ) awarded more than $746,000 to 12 organizations to support physical and cybersecurity improvements at sites at risk of terror or other extremist attacks.

Interested organizations can learn more about NSGP funding and the application process by visiting hsema.dc.gov/NSGP.

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