Notice of Funding Opportunity

(NOFO)

Fiscal Year 2025 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant Program

Issued by: Department of Homeland Security - FEMA

IMPORTANT DATES

Grants.gov Application Submission Deadline: 06/22/2026 | 5 PM ET

Cost Share or Match:  Yes

Description of Program

The FY 2025 SAFER Grant Program, known as the SAFER Program, is one of three grant programs from DHS and FEMA that improve public and firefighter safety related to fire hazards. The SAFER Program provides funding directly to fire departments and volunteer firefighter organizations to increase the number of firefighters. This funding supports communities in meeting industry standards, achieving 24-hour staffing, and ensuring adequate protection from fire hazards while supporting the traditional missions of fire departments.

Since its launch in 2005, the SAFER Program has awarded approximately $6.1 billion in grants. These funds have been used to hire new firefighters, convert part-time or paid-on-call firefighters to full-time roles, and recruit and retain volunteer firefighters. For examples of how this program has made a difference, visit the Assistance to Firefighters Grants Program page on FEMA.gov.

Allowable Project Types:

1. Hiring Activity: The Hiring Activity provides grants to support fire departments in hiring new firefighters or converting part-time or paid-on-call firefighters to full-time positions. However, national, regional, state, local, Tribal Nation, and nonprofit organizations that represent volunteer firefighters are not eligible for SAFER Program awards under the Hiring Activity.

2. R&R Activity: The R&R Activity provides grants to help fire departments recruit and retain volunteer firefighters trained in firefighting and emergency response operations. Career fire departments are not eligible for funding under the R&R Activity.

As a reminder, should you pursue this funding opportunity, please complete the

GPAR form.