FY 2026 Supplemental Public Sector Training Grant (SPST)

The Supplemental Public Sector Training Grant Program is administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation through the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration. This program originates from federal statutory authority established under the Hazardous Materials Transportation Authorization Act of 1994, which directs the federal government to support training efforts that improve hazardous materials emergency response capabilities. The program is designed to strengthen national preparedness by ensuring that qualified instructors and responders are properly trained to handle incidents involving hazardous materials transportation. The primary purpose of the program is to fund national nonprofit fire service organizations that can deliver train-the-trainer programs focused on hazardous materials response. These organizations are expected to demonstrate expertise in training instructors who will then educate emergency responders across the country. The overarching objective is to improve the safety and effectiveness of public sector responders who are responsible for managing hazardous materials incidents, thereby reducing risks to people, property, and the environment. Funding under this program is competitive and discretionary, with approximately $2,000,000 anticipated to be available for the funding cycle. Individual awards are expected to range between $500,000 and $1,000,000. The period of performance for funded projects must be at least 12 months, with the option to extend up to 24 months if justified. Funds must be used strictly for allowable activities related to training and program implementation, and expenditures must align with federal cost principles and approved project budgets. Allowable uses of funding include developing and delivering training programs, conducting courses for instructors and responders, and supporting program implementation activities. However, there are strict funding restrictions. Costs such as entertainment, alcohol, excessive administrative supplies, personnel overtime for trainees, and pre-award expenses without prior approval are not eligible. Additionally, funds cannot be used for lobbying or any expenses already covered by other federal programs. All expenditures must be tracked through a detailed and auditable accounting system. Eligibility for this grant is limited to national nonprofit fire service organizations that are recognized as tax-exempt by the Internal Revenue Service. These organizations must demonstrate the capacity to conduct large-scale training programs and must have experience in hazardous materials response training. For-profit entities are explicitly excluded from eligibility, and nonprofit organizations must comply with federal regulations prohibiting the use of funds for lobbying activities. The application process requires submission through Grants.gov, and applicants must complete several standard federal forms along with program-specific attachments. Required components include a project narrative, budget narrative, and supporting documentation such as indirect cost agreements and letters of support. Applications are evaluated based on technical and programmatic criteria, including alignment with training standards, organizational expertise, program reach, cost effectiveness, and the ability to demonstrate measurable outcomes and impact. The application timeline includes a posting date in mid-May, a question submission deadline in mid-June, and a final application deadline in late June. Awards are expected to be announced by the end of September, with project implementation beginning shortly thereafter. Applicants must also comply with federal registration requirements, including maintaining active registrations in SAM and Grants.gov. Ongoing reporting requirements include progress reports, financial reporting, and a final report summarizing outcomes and impact at the conclusion of the grant period.

Ensure training aligns with NFPA 470 or OSHA standards clearly demonstrate train the trainer capability provide detailed needs assessment and measurable outputs align budget narrative precisely with costs and justify all expenses