Pool Safely Grant Program (PSGP) 2026

The Pool Safely Grant Program is administered by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission under the authority of the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act. This federal initiative is designed to reduce the incidence of child drowning and drain entrapment in swimming pools and spas across the United States. The program provides financial assistance to state governments, local governments, territories, and federally recognized Indian Tribes to support enforcement of pool safety laws and public education campaigns. The funding opportunity reflects a national commitment to improving safety standards and increasing awareness of preventable water-related injuries involving children. The primary purpose of the program is to assist eligible jurisdictions in implementing and enforcing pool and spa safety regulations while also educating the public about water safety risks. The program mandates that at least 25 percent of awarded funds be used for enforcement-related activities, such as hiring and training personnel responsible for ensuring compliance with safety standards. The remaining funds, up to 75 percent, may be allocated to education initiatives, including outreach campaigns, training programs, and dissemination of safety materials. Funds may also cover associated administrative costs tied directly to these programmatic efforts. However, the grant strictly prohibits the use of funds for construction, renovation, or equipment installation related to pools or spas. Eligibility for the program is limited to governmental entities, including all U.S. states, territories, local governments, and Indian Tribes. Applicants must demonstrate that they have enacted and are enforcing pool and spa safety laws that meet specific federal requirements outlined in the governing legislation. These laws must include provisions such as physical barriers to prevent unsupervised child access and safety standards for pool drainage systems. Applicants are required to submit documentation of these laws and provide detailed explanations of how they meet federal criteria. Only one application per organization is permitted. Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov, and applicants are required to maintain active registrations in both SAM.gov and Grants.gov prior to submission. The application package includes multiple required components such as standard federal forms, a project narrative, budget narrative, staffing plan, project schedule, and documentation of applicable laws. The total application must not exceed 80 pages. The submission deadline for this funding opportunity is July 13, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time, and late or incomplete submissions will not be accepted. The anticipated award date is September 21, 2026, with a project period lasting two years. The evaluation process is conducted by an Objective Review Committee composed of federal experts who assess applications based on criteria including community need, project design, organizational capacity, and evaluation methodology. Applications must score at least 70 points to be considered for funding. Additional preference may be given to jurisdictions with higher rates of child drowning incidents and those that have not received prior funding. Award amounts range from $50,000 to $400,000, with total program funding estimated at $4 million and approximately 5 to 10 awards expected. Successful applicants must comply with federal reporting requirements, including financial reports, progress updates, and a final evaluation report. These reports track performance against stated objectives and document the impact of funded activities. The program emphasizes measurable outcomes and accountability, requiring grantees to demonstrate progress in reducing drowning risks and improving public awareness. Contacts for the program include designated grants management specialists and a program officer, who are available to provide guidance throughout the application and award process.

Ensure at least 25 percent of funds are allocated to enforcement activities; clearly demonstrate compliance with VGB Act law requirements; align project objectives with measurable outcomes; submit complete and validated application before deadline; ensure SAM and Grants.gov registrations are active