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Best Grants for First Responders

Explore funding for first responders including EMS, law enforcement, and fire personnel for training, equipment, and disaster response.

133

Available grants

$13M

Total funding

$5K

Median grant

133 grants
$13M total
$5K median

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Unspecified amount

Black Hills Charitable Giving Program

Rolling deadline
The Black Hills Charitable Giving Program supports community growth by providing sponsorships and donations to eligible organizations. Focused on thriving communities, conservation, and nurturing future leaders, it invites applications from 501(c)(3) organizations and schools. Funding priorities include critical needs like food security and education, while requests benefiting individuals or political causes are generally not funded. Applications are accepted year-round, with decisions made within 120 days.
Black Hills Corporation Foundation

Up to US $5,000

Community Engagement

Rolling deadline
The Community Engagement Grant, offered by the First Responders Children's Foundation, aims to strengthen relationships between first responders and youth in their communities. By funding programs that promote mental health, youth education, family support, and emergency assistance, the grant helps foster trust and understanding. This initiative not only benefits first responders and their families but also inspires future generations to consider careers in public service. Together, we can build safer and healthier communities.
First Responders Childrens Foundation

Unspecified amount

Corporate Support: Grants & Corporate Donations

Rolling deadline
Brookshire Grocery Company is committed to enhancing community well-being through substantial corporate support. Annually, they contribute over one million dollars to various sectors including education, hunger relief, and family support, ensuring a positive impact in their market areas. Their initiatives include scholarships, food drives, and partnerships with local organizations. By focusing on nonprofits and community-oriented programs, they strive to uplift families, honor veterans, and foster educational opportunities, reinforcing their dedication to giving back.
Brookshire Grocery Company

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US $1,000 - US $5,000

CSX Charitable Investments- Community Service Grants

Rolling deadline
CSX Charitable Investments offers Community Service Grants to organizations that significantly impact their communities. These grants aim to support entities with tax-exempt status, government agencies, or educational institutions. The application process is open year-round, with responses expected within 30–45 days. The foundation prioritizes projects that serve military families and first responders, reflecting CSX's commitment to community service and support for local needs.
Csx Foundation Inc

US $2,500 - US $25,000

CSX Charitable Investments- Pride in Service Grants

Rolling deadline
CSX Charitable Investments offers the Pride in Service Grants to support organizations that honor and assist military members and first responders. Focus areas include safety, mental health, community bridging, workforce development, and addressing food insecurity. Eligible organizations include those with 501(c)(3) status, government entities, and educational institutions. Grants aim to uplift communities and recognize the contributions of those who serve, while ensuring alignment with specific charitable criteria.
Csx Foundation Inc

Up to US $40,000

Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation Grants

Rolling deadline
The Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation Grants aim to enhance the life-saving capabilities of public safety organizations. Established in 2005, the foundation supports funding for life-saving equipment, prevention education, scholarships, and disaster relief initiatives. Eligible applicants include public safety entities located within 60 miles of a Firehouse Subs restaurant. This program emphasizes early application submission, as only a limited number of applications are accepted quarterly.
Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation

Unspecified amount

Global Fund for Children Grants: Become a Partner

Rolling deadline
The Global Fund for Children invites community-based organizations worldwide to partner in improving the lives of children and youth. They seek dynamic groups aligned with their mission, focusing on grassroots solutions to tackle poverty, injustice, and discrimination. With a commitment to education, gender justice, safety, climate resilience, and youth empowerment, GFC builds strong relationships with potential partners, ensuring mutual growth and impact without requiring formal proposals.
Global Fund for Children

Unspecified amount

Parsons Foundation Grant

Rolling deadline
The Bob and Renee Parsons Foundation is dedicated to supporting low-income and underserved communities through transformational gifts to nonprofit organizations. Focused on areas such as youth and education, health and home, military and first responders, the foundation aims to make a measurable impact. By prioritizing organizations that align with their mission, they strive to empower individuals and break the cycles of poverty and discrimination, ensuring every community member has a chance to thrive.
Bob And Renee Parsons Foundation

Unspecified amount

Raley's Purposeful Giving

Rolling deadline
Raley's Community Giving supports impactful community initiatives in areas such as child welfare, food access, and sustainability. They prioritize requests that align with these focus areas and require submissions to be made at least 90 days prior to the need date. Organizations must be located in cities with Raley's stores and can only receive support once per fiscal year. Notably, requests for individual sponsorships or third-party fundraising are not eligible.
Raley's

Unspecified amount

Robert D. and Marcia H. Randall Charitable Trust Grant

Rolling deadline
The Robert D. and Marcia H. Randall Charitable Trust aims to enhance the lives of people in the Pacific Northwest by funding organizations that support education, youth development, and community building. Established in 2001, the Trust has awarded over 560 grants totaling more than $22.5 million, reflecting its commitment to fostering personal responsibility and enriching cultural institutions, ultimately striving to create a better world for future generations.
The Robert D and Marcia H Randall Charitable Trust

US $30,000 - US $400,000

Rotary Club: Global Grants

Rolling deadline
The Rotary Club's Global Grants initiative supports significant international projects that yield sustainable results. By collaborating with local communities, Rotary clubs and districts address pressing needs across various focus areas, including health, education, and economic development. These grants, with budgets ranging from $30,000 to $400,000, enable clubs to implement impactful humanitarian projects, scholarships, and vocational training, ultimately fostering global partnerships and enhancing community welfare.
The Rotary Foundation Of Rotary International

More than US $10,000

Roy & Gloria Dinsdale Foundation Grant

Rolling deadline
The Roy and Gloria Dinsdale Foundation, established in 2022, is dedicated to enhancing lives in rural Nebraska, Wyoming, and Colorado through grants exceeding $10,000. It supports nonprofits and government entities focused on food, shelter, healthcare, education, and the arts. The foundation prioritizes local initiatives that enrich communities and improve access to essential services, while maintaining a commitment to assisting veterans, first responders, and individuals with disabilities.
Roy And Gloria Dinsdale Foundation

Unspecified amount

S. H. Cowell Foundation Grant

Rolling deadline
The S. H. Cowell Foundation Grant focuses on supporting public and nonprofit organizations in Northern and Central California that address acute poverty and promote racial equity. The foundation prioritizes place-based strategies to fund initiatives that foster child development, family empowerment, and youth leadership. By building on community strengths, it aims to create equitable access to essential services and enhance the overall well-being of families and children, ensuring their voices are integral to program design and implementation.
S H Cowell Foundation

Up to US $20,000

Mobilize Power Fund Grant

Applications due Oct 7, 2026
The Mobilize Power Fund Grant, offered by the Third Wave Fund, supports youth-led gender justice activism. This rapid response fund targets organizations led by young women of color and LGBTQ+ youth, providing up to $10,000 for urgent needs. It prioritizes groups addressing recent incidents that threaten their work, fostering community power and leadership. Organizations with budgets under $500,000 can apply, aiming for impactful, time-sensitive initiatives that promote social change.
Third Wave Fund

More than US $2,500

Wawa Foundation: Financial Grants (Grants over $2,500)

Letter of inquiry due Nov 1, 2026
The Wawa Foundation offers financial grants exceeding $2,500 to 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations in its six-state market, focusing on health, hunger, and supporting everyday heroes. Applications are accepted in January, April, July, and October, with grant requests reviewed prior to the next submission window. Eligible organizations include those working to improve lives through health initiatives, hunger relief efforts, and support for community heroes. For more details, visit the Wawa Foundation's official site.
Wawa Foundation

US $10,000 - US $250,000

Cafritz Foundation Grants

Applications due Nov 2, 2026
The Morris & Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation focuses on improving the lives of underserved individuals in the DC area through grants in five key areas: Arts and Humanities, Community Services, Education, Environment, and Health & Wellness. The Foundation supports organizations that demonstrate cultural competence and systemic change, aiming for self-sufficiency and holistic well-being for all community members. Grants emphasize access to resources and equitable opportunities to foster meaningful community engagement.
Morris & Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation

US $2,500 - US $25,000

TC Energy’s Social Impact Program - Build Strong

Applications due Nov 16, 2026
TC Energy’s Build Strong program supports vital organizations in communities near its operations. By providing grants, scholarships, and in-kind support, the program aims to enhance safety, education, environmental protection, and community well-being. Eligible applicants include non-profits and community groups addressing local needs. Ineligible activities include operational expenses and for-profit endeavors. The program prioritizes projects demonstrating measurable community impact, fostering a collaborative relationship between TC Energy and local stakeholders.
Tc Energy Foundation

US $5,000 - US $3,000,000

Del E. Webb Foundation Grant

Letter of inquiry due Nov 17, 2026
The Del E. Webb Foundation Grant offers financial support ranging from $5,000 to $3,000,000 for nonprofit organizations operating in Arizona, California, or Nevada. The foundation prioritizes projects that enhance self-sufficiency and have long-term benefits, particularly in child and health initiatives. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities and demonstrate a commitment to community service. The application process involves submitting a Letter of Intent, followed by a formal application if invited.
Del E Webb Foundation

Up to US $10,000

Pacific Power / Rocky Mountain Power: Safety and Wellness Organizations

Applications due Dec 15, 2026
The Pacific Power Foundation offers grants to support health, safety, and wellness organizations within its service areas across Oregon, Washington, California, Utah, Wyoming, and Idaho. Eligible candidates include nonprofit groups with 501(c)(3) status and government entities. The foundation focuses on initiatives addressing food insecurity, mental health, and public safety, aiming to enhance community well-being. Grants are awarded in four cycles, ensuring thorough review for maximum impact. Applications must demonstrate relevance to the served communities.
PacifiCorp/Pacific Power/Rocky Mountain Power Foundation

US $2,500 - US $15,000

Innovia Foundation: Community Grant Program

Pre proposal due Jan 9, 2027
The Innovia Foundation's Community Grant Program offers funding to organizations in a 20-county region, with awards ranging from $2,500 to $15,000. This program prioritizes impactful community initiatives in education, arts, economic opportunity, health, and quality of life. Eligible applicants include public charities and federally recognized tribes. The foundation emphasizes collaboration and inclusivity, aiming to address basic human needs and reduce inequity, while fostering vibrant and sustainable communities.
Innovia Foundation

Up to US $50,000

Motorola Solutions Foundation Grant

Letter of inquiry due Jan 22, 2027
The Motorola Solutions Foundation Grant supports organizations that enhance safety and community well-being, focusing on underrepresented populations. With over $100 million in donations, the foundation prioritizes technology and engineering education, first responder programming, and blended initiatives. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) organizations or school districts in the U.S. The foundation seeks partnerships that demonstrate strong financial health and data-driven evaluation methods, aiming to create safer cities and thriving communities.
Motorola Solutions Foundation

US $5,000 - US $20,000

John Ben Snow Memorial Trust Grant

Letter of inquiry due Feb 1, 2027
The John Ben Snow Memorial Trust Grant supports educational programs and initiatives that assist individuals demonstrating financial need. Founded in 1975, it prioritizes funding for organizations that enhance educational opportunities, arts, culture, and community initiatives, particularly for youth and disadvantaged populations. The Trust encourages proposals from 501(c)(3) organizations, with grants typically ranging from $10,000 to $20,000. It also considers limited proposals in disabilities, environmental protection, and historic preservation, focusing on educational impact.
John Ben Snow Memorial Trust

Unspecified amount

Scaife Family Foundation Grant

Applications due Feb 1, 2027
The Scaife Family Foundation Grant has been supporting vulnerable community members for nearly 40 years, providing over $180 million in donations to non-profits. The Foundation aims to match organizations with aligned goals, focusing on women and children, addiction prevention, and animal welfare. It offers grants for general operating and program support, prioritizing impactful programs that address societal issues. Notably, the Foundation considers proposals that foster healthy relationships and promote treatment for addiction, enhancing the welfare of both humans and animals.
Scaife Family Foundation

US $60,000 - US $100,000

Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts Grant

Applications due Mar 1, 2027
The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts Grant supports innovative visual arts projects through a diverse grantmaking program. It funds artists and organizations that challenge the status quo and promote inclusivity in the contemporary art landscape. Grants are available for curatorial research, exhibitions, and public programs, encouraging creativity and exploration. The foundation prioritizes projects that reflect the diverse population of the United States and reject bigotry, fostering an environment of free expression and artistic growth.
Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts

US $50,000 - US $100,000

NNG Grants Program

Letter of inquiry due Mar 21, 2027
Ninety-nine Girlfriends offers annual Impact Awards ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 to nonprofits in the Portland Metro/SW Washington area. The grants focus on four key areas: educational equity for youth, environmental sustainability, housing stability, and women's economic empowerment. Emphasizing equity and trust-based philanthropy, they seek organizations that demonstrate a commitment to community impact and inclusivity. Applications are open to 501(c)(3) entities and fiscally sponsored groups, requiring a minimum annual revenue of $100,000.
Ninety Nine Girlfriends

Unspecified amount

Combating Social Isolation of Older Adults Grant

Letter of inquiry due Apr 23, 2027
The Combating Social Isolation of Older Adults Grant, provided by the Sephardic Home for the Aged Foundation, aims to combat elder abuse and neglect exacerbated by social isolation. This initiative recognizes that isolation can lead to severe mental and physical health issues among older adults. It promotes trauma-informed care and mental health services to help these individuals reconnect socially. Additionally, the Foundation supports intergenerational programming as a vital strategy to foster community connections and reduce isolation among seniors.
The Sephardic Foundation on Aging

US $250 - US $5,000

FRS: Community Grant Program

Applications due Sep 4, 2027
The FRS Community Grant Program supports rural communities served by NTCA members, offering grants up to $5,000 for various local initiatives. Priority is given to projects that promote economic development, education, health, and public service. Eligible applicants must secure a 10% match of the grant amount requested. Ineligible projects include overhead expenses, individuals, and those without secured funding. FRS aims to foster sustainable and engaged rural communities through these efforts.
Foundation for Rural Service

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Grants for First Responders Highlights

Looking for grants for first responders? We provide a selection of available grants. From funding for emergency equipment and training to enhancing response capabilities, Instrumentl’s extensive database of open opportunities keeps you in the loop with active grants.

Start your 14-day free trial of Instrumentl for grants that match your first responder needs.

Top Searched Grants for First Responders

Grants for First Responders from Private Funders
Grants for First Responders over $20k
Grants for First Responders for Projects & Programs
Grants for First Responders from Government Funders

Grant Insights : Grants for First Responders

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Common — grants in this category appear regularly across funding sources.

100+ Grants for First Responders grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

28 Grants for First Responders over $25K in average grant size

21 Grants for First Responders over $50K in average grant size

13 Grants for First Responders supporting general operating expenses

91 Grants for First Responders supporting programs / projects

3,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Education

2,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Youth Services

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for grants for First Responders?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
38.1%
Q2
27.0%
Q3
16.5%
Q4
18.3%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Grants for First Responders?

Grants are most commonly $5,000.

$250 $250 Min.
$5,000 $5 K Median
$149,816 $149.8 K Average
$6,200,000 $6.2 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

Nonprofits eligible for first responders grants include public safety organizations and nonprofit organizations, EMS agencies, law enforcement departments, and search and rescue teams that provide emergency medical and disaster response services. Many funders prioritize initiatives that improve public safety and emergency preparedness or provide leadership development and training for underrepresented first responders. The grants require usually applicants to be 501(c)(3) organizations and may prioritize those within a specific geographic area.

Grants in first responders typically have the highest concentration of deadlines in Q1, with 38.1% of grant deadlines falling in this period. If you're planning to apply, consider prioritizing your applications around this time to maximize opportunities. Conversely, the least active period for grants in this category is Q3.

First responders grants support first responders by funding essential equipment, training and workforce development, mental health programs, and emergency preparedness initiatives. These grants aim to strengthen response capabilities, reduce fatalities, and enhance first responder mental, social, and emotional well-being.

Funding for first responders grants varies widely, with award amounts ranging from a minimum of $250 to a maximum of $6,200,000. Based on Instrumentl’s data, the median grant amount for this category is $5,000, while the average grant awarded is $149,816. Understanding these funding trends can help nonprofits set realistic expectations when applying.

Major funders of first responders grants include federal agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the National First Responders Fund, and corporate safety initiatives that provide funding for first responder programs.

Private foundations like the Jams Foundation, the LA Dodgers Foundation, and the Open Philanthropy Project focus on financial support for the development of innovative programs. Additionally, corporate initiatives from companies like Wawa focus on supporting the military, veterans, and first responders in local communities.

To improve grant success, nonprofits should:

  • Align with funder priorities – Tailor proposals to match the funder’s mission and key focus areas.
  • Use measurable outcomes – Provide data-driven results to demonstrate past impact and expected future success.
  • Build strategic partnerships – Collaborate with healthcare providers, government agencies, and community organizations to strengthen applications.
  • Develop a compelling narrative – Use real stories and case studies to highlight the significance of the program.

For additional guidance, explore our step-by-step guide to crafting compelling grant proposals.

Instrumentl simplifies the grant application process by offering an intuitive platform that helps nonprofits discover relevant funding opportunities, track deadlines, and analyze funder-giving patterns. The platform's automated alerts ensure users never miss a deadline, while detailed funder insights help organizations tailor their applications to align with grantor priorities. See how Oasis–A Haven for Women and Children cut their time spent on grant research by 83%.

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