Nonprofits today face more security threats than ever, from targeted violence and threats to crowded community spaces. Recognizing these risks, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) continue to support high-risk nonprofits through the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP). In Nevada, this program is managed by the Nevada Division of Emergency Management (DEM).
According to the program summary, the goal for the NSGP is “to fund physical security enhancements and other security-related activities to nonprofit organizations that are at high risk of a terrorist attack.”
This is exactly what we need today: proactive preparedness, especially for schools, houses of worship, cultural centers, and community nonprofits.
About the FY 2025 Nonprofit Security Grant Program
The FY 2025 NSGP continues to focus on protecting community institutions. This funding helps keep organizations that are public gathering points safe.
Key Details:
- Eligible Applicants: Nonprofits in Nevada at high risk of terrorist threats
- Two funding tracks:
- NSGP-Urban Area (NSGP-UA) – For nonprofits in FY 2024 UASI-designated urban areas
- NSGP-State (NSGP-S) – For nonprofits outside UASI-designated urban areas
- No matching funds required
- Up to three sites may be submitted, each with a separate application
- Deadline: December 31, 2025
Eligible project areas focus on enhancing the protection of soft targets and crowded places, with emphasis on secondary priorities, including effective planning, training and awareness campaigns, and preparedness exercises. Funding may also support physical security enhancements and other security-related activities. Finally, the program encourages strong integration with state and local partners to ensure a coordinated and resilient approach to safety.
Applications must be submitted through the ZoomGrants platform.
Strengthening Security Preparedness with AI Gun Detection
As nonprofits modernize their security, advanced technologies are being included in NSGP-eligible projects. One of the most impactful innovations in facility security today is Omnilert’s AI Gun Detection.
How Omnilert’s AI Gun Detection Works
Omnilert’s solution pairs advanced artificial intelligence with human verification to provide instant, automated detection of visible firearms on camera feeds. Once the AI identifies a potential gun:
- The alert is sent to monitoring specialists for rapid verification.
- If verified, an automated and instant response sequence begins. This includes triggering alerts, lockdowns, or notifying authorities based on the organization’s emergency protocols.
Why AI Gun Detection Matters for Nonprofits and Schools
- Early detection saves lives. Identifying a weapon the moment it appears dramatically increases response time during active shooter attempts.
- Non-disruptive safety. Unlike metal detectors, AI gun detection works quietly in the background using existing camera infrastructure.
- Aligns with NSGP goals. Because it enhances physical security and threat mitigation, AI gun detection is a natural fit for NSGP funding.
- Real-time, automated response. The combination of AI and human verification reduces false positives and accelerates action.
For private schools, cultural institutions, faith-based organizations, and social service nonprofits, this technology strengthens protection where situational awareness is most critical.
Why Nevada Nonprofits Should Apply
Whether big or small, urban or rural, every nonprofit that serves the public has a responsibility to protect its people and facilities. The NSGP is a rare opportunity to fund major security upgrades at no cost to the organization.
Eligible security improvements may include:
- Surveillance systems and access control
- Intrusion detection
- Emergency communication systems
- Staff training and active threat exercises
- AI-powered gun detection
- Physical hardening (lighting, fencing, shatter-resistant film, etc.)
Nonprofit organizations need to stay ahead of evolving threats. Learn how you can secure NSGP funding and strengthen your emergency preparedness with Omnilert’s AI gun detection solution. To learn about Omnilert Grant Assistance (Click Here).
