INDIANA – The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) is notifying governmental organizations across the state to get ready for the 2025 State Homeland Security Grant Program (SHSP). While FEMA has released the official Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) on July 28, the IDHS, which serves as Indiana’s State Administrative Agency (SAA), will open the local application period within the next two weeks.
Applicants should be aware that the federal deadline of August 11, 2025, listed in the NOFO does not apply to Indiana. The specific due date for local applications will be announced when IDHS officially opens the application period on its SHSP webpage.
New Grant Process and How to Apply
Following new guidance from the NOFO, FEMA will now allocate SHSP funds to each state based on risk before applications are reviewed. This change means states will have a pre-determined amount of funding to distribute, which may result in a condensed application timeline for local organizations.
To stay informed, IDHS highly recommends signing up for grant updates on the SHSP webpage, where all 2025 program information will be posted.
Application Details and Preparation
Applicants can submit a maximum of two applications: one (1) for a National Priority project and one (1) for an Enduring Needs project. Each application is capped at $150,000.
For any projects involving emergency communications, applicants must certify that they have coordinated with the Statewide Interoperability Coordinator (SWIC) and explain how their project aligns with the Statewide Communications Interoperability Plan. Coordination is a mandatory step for these projects to be considered for funding. Organizations can contact Andrea Baughn, the SWIC, at anbaughn@ipsc.in.gov or 317-518-6678.
To get a head start, applicants can take the following preparatory steps:
- Confirm your Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number.
- Compile detailed project descriptions that address terrorism and explain how the project will address identified gaps.
- Ensure National Priority projects align with the descriptions provided in the federal NOFO.
- Prepare an explanation of how the project will enhance collaboration and why it is urgent.
- Check the Authorized Equipment List (AEL) to ensure all proposed equipment is allowable.
