Statewide Interoperable Communications Grant

The Statewide Interoperable Communications Grant (Formula-Based Grant Program) is administered by the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. The program is designed to strengthen emergency communications infrastructure and coordination across New York State by providing funding to county governments and New York City. The funding originates from the Statewide Public Safety Communications Account and reflects a combined appropriation across two state fiscal years, totaling 90 million dollars. The program is grounded in statewide and federal interoperability priorities, including alignment with the Statewide Communications Interoperability Plan and federal SAFECOM guidance. The primary purpose of the program is to minimize gaps in interoperable communications among public safety agencies. It focuses on aligning technology acquisitions with real-world operational needs of first responders, ensuring that communication systems are capable of supporting seamless coordination during emergencies. The grant supports the development and sustainability of Land Mobile Radio systems, governance structures, training initiatives, and interoperability channels. It also emphasizes improvements in emergency response capabilities, infrastructure modernization, and integration with emerging communication technologies. Funding is provided on a reimbursement basis for eligible expenses. Allowable costs include communication system infrastructure, equipment such as radios and towers, network components, backup power systems, and upgrades to public safety answering points. The program also permits expenditures related to planning, governance development, training exercises, and partial salary support for interoperability coordinators. However, certain costs are explicitly prohibited, including proprietary technologies, routine operational expenses, real estate purchases, and most travel or recurring service costs. These restrictions ensure that funds are used strictly for enhancing interoperability capabilities rather than general operations. Eligibility for the program is limited to county governments within New York State, including New York City, which must apply as a single entity. Applicants must meet several technical and operational requirements, such as participation in a regional interoperability consortium, designation of an interoperability coordinator, and compliance with communication standards including P25 Phase 2 systems and encryption protocols. Applicants must also commit to sharing communication systems with other jurisdictions and state agencies to ensure statewide interoperability during emergency responses. Applications must be submitted electronically through the DHSES E-Grants system. Applicants are required to complete a detailed application worksheet that includes general information, budget details, personnel data, and supporting documentation. The application must be complete at submission, as incomplete applications will not be accepted. The process includes registration in the E-Grants system, completion of required forms, and submission of all required documentation by the stated deadline. Upon submission, applicants receive confirmation through the system. The application deadline for this funding cycle is June 17, 2026 at 5:00 PM Eastern Time. Following submission, DHSES reviews applications and issues award letters to successful applicants. Contracts are then executed as reimbursement-based agreements, subject to approval by state oversight entities. The period of performance for awarded projects runs from January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2030, with possible extensions if justified. The program does not follow a competitive scoring process, as funds are distributed using a formula that includes base allocations and adjustments based on population and geographic factors. This grant program is recurring in nature as it is tied to state fiscal appropriations and ongoing public safety priorities. It represents a continued investment by New York State in strengthening emergency communications infrastructure and ensuring that public safety agencies can effectively coordinate across jurisdictions. Questions regarding the program may be directed to the DHSES grants office via the official program email, and additional guidance materials are available through the agency’s website and supporting documentation.

Ensure all application sections are fully completed and align proposed projects with interoperability standards and allowable costs to avoid rejection