Homeland Security Grant Program: Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI)
The Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP) plays an important role in the implementation of the National Preparedness System by supporting the building, sustainment, and delivery of core capabilities essential to achieving the National Preparedness Goal (the Goal) of a secure and resilient Nation. The building, sustainment, and delivery of these core capabilities are not exclusive to any single level of government, organization, or community, but rather, require the combined effort of the whole community. The HSGP supports efforts to build and sustain core capabilities across the five mission areas of Prevention, Protection, Mitigation, Response, and Recovery based on allowable costs.
HSGP is comprised of three interconnected grant programs:
Together, these grant programs fund a range of preparedness activities, including planning, organization, equipment purchase, training, exercises, and management and administration.
Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) Program
Contributes to high-threat, high-density urban areas in their efforts to build and sustain the capabilities essential to prevent, protect against, mitigate, respond to, and recover from acts of terrorism. Most of the cumulative national terrorism risk to urban areas is focused on a relatively small number of cities. The FY 2015 U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) appropriations bill limits UASI funding to urban areas representing 85% of nationwide risk. To determine areas that represent highest risk – and consistent with the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007 (9/11 Act) – FEMA conducts risk assessments for the 100 most populous metropolitan areas prior to making UASI grant awards.
Who can Participate in UASI Grants?
Urban areas representing up to 85% of the risk are most likely to be funded.
What Activities are Funded Through UASI?
Eligible activities include planning, organization, equipment, training and exercise needs of high-threat, high-density urban areas.
Application Process
The State Administrative Agent (SAA) is the only entity eligible to apply to FEMA for UASI funds.
GOHSEP is the SAA.
Project funding is based in part on DHS risk methodology and anticipated effectiveness of proposed projects. The anticipated effectiveness is assessed based on an Applicant’s description of how proposed projects align with the urban area threats and risk assessment (THIRA).
When is the Application Period?
Grants are generally available annually. FEMA issues a Notice of Funding Opportunity Announcement (NFOA) when application periods open. When UASI funds are available the SAA notifies eligible local governing authorities and provides instructions on how to apply.
Need Help?
If you want to know more about UASI or Preparedness grant opportunities, contact your:
