EMA Extends Grant Opportunity For Ohio

From The Ohio EMA: Non-profit organizations around the state have an opportunity to enhance their security with a Security Improvement Grant from the Ohio Emergency Management Agency (EMA).

With the authorization from House Bill 384 of the 131st General Assembly, Ohio EMA will provide grant funding to qualified nonprofit organizations for eligible security improvements that assist the organization in preventing, preparing for, and responding to acts of terrorism.

Each eligible nonprofit may apply for up to $100,000 to be used for: eligible physical security enhancement equipment or inspection and screening equipment in and/or attendance fees and associated materials, supplies, and equipment costs for security-related training courses and programs regarding the protection of critical infrastructure and key resources, physical and cyber security, target hardening, or terrorism awareness or preparedness.

“With this grant, the Ohio Legislature has made it possible for organizations to improve their security posture,” said Ohio EMA Executive Director Sima Merick. “Preventative measures are most often the best way to protect people and to provide a safer environment.”

Each applicant must include a vulnerability/risk assessment (conducted by experienced security, law enforcement, or military personnel) and describe how the award will be used to address the vulnerabilities identified in the assessment. Guidance and application documents will be available beginning today with the deadline for submission set for March 15, 2017. To determine eligibility and application details, interested applicants can visit: http://ema.ohio.gov/PreparednessGrants_SecurityGrantsForNonProfits.aspx.

Grants are expected to be awarded by April 19, 2017, on a competitive basis based on criteria and eligibilities established in H.B. No. 384. The performance period for these grants is April 19, 2017, to June 30, 2018.

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