Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program

The Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program is administered by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency under the authority of Act 83 of 2019. This program was created to provide targeted funding to nonprofit organizations that serve populations vulnerable to bias-motivated hate crimes, as defined by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Uniform Crime Reporting system. The initiative reflects a statewide effort to enhance the safety and resilience of community-based institutions, including places of worship, community centers, and other nonprofit facilities that may be at heightened risk due to the populations they serve. The primary purpose of this grant is to support security enhancements that protect both facilities and the individuals who use them. Funding is intended for projects that directly improve safety and preparedness, including physical infrastructure upgrades, acquisition of security equipment, and implementation of training programs. Eligible uses include surveillance systems, access control mechanisms, protective lighting, emergency communication tools, and threat awareness training. The program also allows for broader safety initiatives such as vulnerability assessments and specialized security planning, provided that applicants clearly demonstrate how these investments address identified risks. Funding is available in amounts ranging from 5000 to 150000 dollars per applicant. A matching requirement applies to requests exceeding 25000 dollars, with required non-state contributions ranging from 33 percent to 50 percent depending on the requested amount. All funding is reimbursement-based, meaning recipients must initially cover costs and then seek reimbursement through the PCCD Egrants system. Funds may not be used to supplant existing funding sources, and only expenses incurred after the official project start date are eligible. Eligibility is restricted to nonprofit organizations located in Pennsylvania that are recognized as tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code or qualify as churches under IRS guidelines. Applicants must principally serve populations that fall within FBI-defined bias categories, including race, religion, sexual orientation, disability, gender, or gender identity. While organizations are not required to have experienced a hate crime, those that can demonstrate prior incidents or credible threats may receive priority consideration during the review process. The application process is conducted in two stages. Applicants must first submit an initial request through an online SurveyMonkey form. If selected to advance, they will be invited to complete a more detailed application in the PCCD Egrants system. The initial submission requires organizational details, project descriptions, budget summaries, and a narrative explaining the need for funding. Supporting documentation may be included but is not mandatory at the initial stage. Applications are competitively reviewed based on clarity, demonstrated need, and alignment with program goals. For the Fall 2026 cycle, the application window opens on July 24, 2026, and closes on September 10, 2026 at 1145 PM Eastern Time. Questions must be submitted by September 9, 2026. Applications recommended for funding are expected to be reviewed in December 2026, with project periods beginning January 1, 2027 and lasting approximately 18 months through June 30, 2028. Organizations must complete the full application process within one year of approval to retain funding eligibility. Program oversight is provided by PCCD, which also serves as the primary point of contact for applicant inquiries. Questions related to the funding announcement must be submitted via email, and technical assistance is available for navigating the application system. The program operates on a recurring basis, with periodic funding announcements aligned with state budget allocations and ongoing public safety priorities.

Clearly describe credible threats and align requested items directly to safety needs; provide specific and justified budget details; highlight prior incidents or risks to strengthen scoring