AFG (Assistance to Firefighters Grant) Ultimate Guide

Whether you're a fire department leader, grant writer, or grant administration, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about securing funding through the AFG program. From eligibility requirements to the application process, we'll break down the steps, tips, and resources to help you navigate the complexities of the grant and ensure your department has the tools and resources it needs to protect your community. The AFG program is America’s largest fire grant program providing upwards of 2,000 fire grant awards typically totaling in the hundreds of millions each year. 

What is AFG Funding?

AFG funding is a grant program that was created with firefighters and first responders in mind. Money from the AFG program helps departments to obtain critically needed resources to maintain the protection of the public and emergency responders from fire and other hazards. 

AFG assistance aids within the following areas: 

Purchasing Equipment: Grants can be used to buy essential firefighting and EMS equipment, such as fire trucks, personal protective gear (PPE), breathing apparatus, and tools needed for rescue operations.

Training: The AFG supports training programs to help first responders stay current with the latest techniques and safety practices.

Vehicle Replacement: Fire departments can use AFG funds to replace aging fire trucks and other emergency vehicles, ensuring they have reliable equipment for responding to incidents.

Health and Safety: The program funds initiatives to improve firefighter health and safety, such as equipment for cancer prevention, mental health support, and improving working conditions.

Fire Prevention and Safety Programs: AFG also supports community fire prevention initiatives, such as public education campaigns, fire safety awareness, and home fire safety programs.

Who is Eligible for an AFG Grant?

Assistance to Firefighters Grants are awarded to fire departments, state fire training academies and emergency medical service organizations.

How to Apply for an AFG Grant

In order to apply, applicants must go through FEMA GO. Ensure you can apply for the AFG program with this checklist: 

• Is your System for Award Management (SAM) registration current?

• What is the expiration date for your SAM registration?

• Do you know your Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number issued by SAM? 

• Has your E-Business point of contact in SAM established your organization in the FEMA Grants Outcomes (FEMA GO) System?

• Have you registered in the FEMA Go System?

SAM registration is free but must be renewed annually. Steps are provided that walk through the process and outline necessary documents for application. If you need help while applying you can reach out to 866-274-0960 or email firegrants@fema.dhs.gov. FEMA has also put together a web hub that includes helpful information and documentation which you can find here. 

Frequently Asked Questions About AFG Grants

When Does the AFG Grant Open?

AFG grants opened for applications on November 12th, 2024. 

When Does the AFG Grant Close?

Applications for the AFG grant will be processed up until December 20th, 2024. 

What Does FEMA Consider a Complete Set of PPE-Turnout Gear?

Structural/Proximity PPE

FEMA considers a complete set of Structural/Proximity PPE Turnout Gear to be comprised of these NFPA 1971 compliant components: one pair of pants, one coat, one helmet, two hoods, one pair of boots, two pairs of gloves, one pair of suspenders, and one pair of goggles

Wildland PPE

FEMA considers a complete set of Wildfire PPE Turnout Gear to be comprised of these NFPA 1977 compliant components: one pair of pants, one coat, one jumpsuit, one helmet, one pair of boots, one pair of gloves, one pair of suspenders, one pair of goggles, one fire shelter, web gear, backpack, and canteen/hydration system.

Do I Need To Return Any Unused AFG Funds?

Yes, all grantees must return any unused funds, plus any earned interest. These funds must be returned to FEMA using the Return of Funds to FEMA form. 

When Will AFG Grants Be Announced?

AFG award announcements will begin on approximately April 30, 2025 and continue thereafter until all FY 2024 AFG Program grant awards are issued (but no later than September 30, 2025).

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