Security Grant Updates
We anticipate that the next round of New York State Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes (SCAHC) grant funding will be released this winter, with an estimated $35 million allocation. While the Request for Proposals (RFP) has not yet been published, it is expected that eligible organizations will be able to apply for up to $200,000 in security funding, like the last round of funding. This is a great opportunity for organizations that have never received SCAHC funding in the past, as there are bonus points added to your total grant score, increasing your likelihood of securing the grant. It’s also an opportunity for organizations did not have a chance to apply for the 2025 federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) that closed last month.
These funds may be used to support a variety of security enhancements, including, but not limited to: fortified doors and windows, security cameras, perimeter lighting, access control systems, panic buttons and alarm systems, cybersecurity improvements, and security trainings. Please note that security guards are NOT an eligible expense under this grant, but are covered under the federal NSGP.
Organizations interested in applying should begin preparing now. Key steps include prequalification in the Statewide Financial System (SFS) and obtaining a current security assessment for your facility. SFS prequalification requires organizations to submit a series of organizational documents to NYS for review to verify that the organization is a viable not-for-profit.
For security assessments, it is generally recommended that the assessment be conducted within the last three years. The assessments must indicate the vulnerabilities that you are planning on addressing in your grant application. If you are in need of a security assessment, the Community Security Initiative (CSI) provides a free service and will conduct an assessment. The link to request an assessment is here: https://csiny.org/services-requests/. Most police precincts have designated Community Affairs Officers who can conduct security assessments as well. It’s important to work on the assessments in advance of the grant funding release.
The Teach NYS grants team, Project Protect, offers grant writing assistance, and we are currently offering an early-bird discount for organizations that sign up for the SCAHC grant prior to the release of the RFP. We are fortunate to have a very high success rate on previously submitted grant applications. Our process includes assistance with SFS prequalification, intake with a dedicated grant writer who will draft your application, and submission on the online GMS platform.
In addition, our team provides grant management for recipients of both the federal NSGP and state SCAHC security grants. Grant recipients can pay a nominal fee to hire a designated project manager who will assist with all state requirements, including quarterly reports, assistance with vendor solicitation and procurement, and reimbursement paperwork.
To sign up for grant writing or to learn more about our grant management service, please email RybsteinR@teachcoalition.org.