FY 2026 Assistance for Local Emergency Response Training (ALERT) Grant

The Assistance for Local Emergency Response Training (ALERT) Grant Program is administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation through the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). The program is authorized under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and codified in federal statute. It is designed to address the risks associated with the transportation of flammable liquids by rail, particularly crude oil, ethanol, and other hazardous materials. PHMSA, as the administering agency, is responsible for improving the safety of hazardous materials transportation nationwide and uses this grant program to strengthen emergency response capabilities at the local level. The primary purpose of the ALERT Grant Program is to provide funding for training programs that prepare emergency responders to effectively manage incidents involving hazardous materials transported by rail. The program emphasizes both in-person and web-based training delivery and seeks to ensure that responders can protect public safety, property, and the environment. Training must align with applicable regulations and standards, including those established by the National Fire Protection Association. The program prioritizes preparedness and risk mitigation through structured and comprehensive training initiatives. Funding under this program is competitive and discretionary. PHMSA anticipates approximately $1,000,000 in total program funding for the fiscal year, with individual awards ranging from $100,000 to $500,000. The period of performance is a minimum of 12 months, with applicants allowed to request up to 24 months depending on project scope and feasibility. Funds must be used for allowable activities directly related to training delivery and program objectives. Certain costs are explicitly prohibited, including entertainment expenses, lobbying activities, personnel compensation for trainees, and costs reimbursed under other federal programs. Eligibility for the ALERT Grant Program is limited to nonprofit organizations that represent regional public-private partnerships. These organizations must be capable of delivering hazardous materials training to individuals with statutory responsibilities for emergency response. Eligible nonprofits include those recognized by the IRS under section 501(c)(3) or other qualifying sections. For-profit entities are not eligible to apply. Additionally, while certain nonprofit classifications may qualify, they are prohibited from using federal funds for lobbying activities. The application process requires submission through Grants.gov, with applicants required to complete standard federal forms such as SF-424 and SF-424A, along with several attachments including a project narrative, budget narrative, and supporting documentation. Applicants must also maintain active registrations in the System for Award Management (SAM) and FedConnect. The application must clearly outline the proposed training program, including curriculum design, delivery methods, target populations, and expected outcomes. Applications are evaluated based on technical and programmatic criteria, including the applicant’s expertise, capacity, and the projected impact of the training. The application deadline for this funding opportunity is June 19, 2026, with questions due by June 17, 2026. PHMSA plans to announce awards by September 30, 2026. The review process includes administrative, technical, and risk assessments, and may involve requests for additional information. Selected applicants will receive formal award notifications and must comply with all federal reporting and compliance requirements. Recipients are required to submit progress reports and financial reports throughout the grant period, as well as final reports within 120 days of project completion. Program oversight includes ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure that funded projects achieve intended outcomes. Recipients must maintain detailed financial records and comply with federal regulations outlined in 2 CFR Part 200. PHMSA may also require participation in program evaluations to assess effectiveness and return on investment. The ALERT Grant Program represents a targeted effort to enhance national preparedness for hazardous materials incidents through structured training and collaboration among public and private stakeholders.

Focus on demonstrating strong training curriculum aligned with NFPA standards, provide detailed needs assessment with data, clearly define outputs and student training counts, and ensure budget justification aligns with activities