Preparedness initiatives enhance the capacity of local emergency responders and the State to prevent, respond to and recover from emergencies and disaster events.

Preparedness initiatives include those that better prepare us for all hazards, notably incidents involving:

• Cyber-attacks
• Natural and weather-related emergencies or disasters
• Weapons-of-mass destruction
• Including those with chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive (CBRNE) devices
• Other man-made emergency or disaster events

GOHSEP Administered Grants

Preparedness Grants administered by GOHSEP come through FEMA, the U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) and the U.S. Department of Education (DOE).

• Emergency Management Program Grant (EMPG)
• Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP)

• State Homeland Security Program (SHSP)
• Operation Stonegarden (OPSG)
• Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI)

• Louisiana FirstNet – State and Local Implementation Grant Program (SLIGP)

SLIGP Grants support the development of a Federal and State partnership to build out a nationwide dedicated public safety broadband network.

Generally, for State-administered grants, either the State Administrative Agent (SAA) or the State Emergency Management Agency (EMA) can apply for EMPG. Only the SAA can apply for HSGP. GOHSEP is the SAA.

The priority of Preparedness Grants is to support the achievement of the National Preparedness System in meeting the National Preparedness Goal – a secure and resilient Nation with the capabilities required across the whole community to prevent, protect against, mitigate, respond to and recover from threats and hazards that pose the greatest risk.

Preparedness Grants should also support State Homeland Security Strategies. Louisiana State Homeland Security Strategy identifies the State’s values, interests, strategic appraisal, policy, strategy and risk assessment as they relate to local, State and national homeland security and resiliency.

• Certain types of equipment purchases. Check the FEMA Allowable Equipment List (AEL) to learn more about equipment items allowed under specific Preparedness Grant programs.
• Development and maintenance of Emergency Operations Plans (EOPs) and other plans.
• Training and exercise.
• Construction and renovation of Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs).
• Management and administration needs.
• And more!

Non-GOHSEP Administered Grants

There are other Preparedness Grants found within other Federal departments and agencies and through both the nonprofit and private sectors that are of interest to local communities, State agencies, Tribal authorities and other emergency management stakeholders. From assistance to firefighters to battling terrorism, community policing, hazardous materials safety and more, these funding sources provide needed assistance to help ensure the safety of our communities.

Grant applications are made online.