The COPS School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP) is specifically designed for K-12 schools, public boards of education, and local, state, and tribal governments. This program focuses on enhancing security measures and prevention programs within educational environments to strengthen student safety.

In contrast, the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) targets 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, community centers, and other nonprofits that are considered at risk of terrorist attacks. This program is intended to bolster the security infrastructure for these vulnerable locations.

With the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP), organizations can primarily apply for "target hardening" measures to protect against terrorist attacks. This includes funds for physical security enhancements such as security cameras, perimeter fencing, gates, bollards, and reinforced doors and windows. Additionally, access control improvements like electronic locksets, card readers, and visitor management systems are covered. Cybersecurity improvements that support security operations can also be funded. The program allows for contracted security guards but excludes the hiring of permanent sworn public safety officers. Training and planning initiatives, including active shooter training, security plans, and emergency response exercises for staff, are eligible for support. However, NSGP does not cover general-use equipment such as standard laptops, vehicles, or weapons.

The COPS School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP) offers up to $500,000 to enhance security in K-12 schools. Eligible applications can include emergency technologies like panic buttons, expedited law enforcement notification systems, and emergency alert software. Deterrent measures such as metal detectors, improved lighting, locks, and peepholes for classroom doors are also supported. Communication upgrades to intercoms, PA systems, and two-way radios are covered to improve emergency communication. The SVPP grant funds training for law enforcement officers to prevent student violence and expenses for better coordination during emergencies. Although it covers salaries for non-sworn personnel, like project managers or technology coordinators, it cannot be used to hire School Resource Officers (SROs). A notable limitation of the SVPP is the requirement for a 25% local cash match, though a financial hardship waiver may be available to some applicants.

Your involvement in the grant writing process will be structured to be efficient and focused. We start with a 30-minute onboarding call to introduce our process and address any preliminary questions. This is followed by an hour and a half intake call to gather detailed information about your organization and project goals. After these initial calls, our team will take the lead in preparing the grant documents.

As part of our service, we will provide a vulnerability assessment, application documents, and required 

state worksheets to ensure a thorough and comprehensive approach. Your main role will be to supply any necessary follow-up information as we refine the submission. EMD will also support your organization through the submission process with a Zoom call, guiding you through the final steps and providing detailed submission instructions. Our aim is to streamline your involvement, letting you concentrate on your mission while we manage the complexities of the grant writing and submission process.

Before applying for a federal grant, it’s essential for your organization to complete several administrative steps, one of which includes registering for a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number on Sam.gov. This number is crucial as it helps uniquely identify your organization within the federal government systems, ensuring you meet the federal requirements for grant applications. Additionally, having a UEI not only streamlines the application process but also facilitates future interactions with federal agencies.