Preparedness Grants

Preparedness initiatives are essential for enhancing the capacity of local emergency responders and the State to prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies and disaster events. By focus on "all hazard" readiness, these programs ensure we are equipped to handle a wide range of threats, including:

• Cyber-attacks: Protecting critical digital infrastructure.
• Natural Disasters: Mitigating the impact of severe weather and environmental emergencies
• CBRNE Threats: Defending against weapons of mass destruction, including chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive devices.
• Man-Made Events: Addressing other human-caused emergencies or disasters.

To ensure our State, local communities, Tribes, Territories remain safe and resilient, Federal departments invest in these vital capabilities through Non-Disaster Preparedness Grants.

Administration & Eligibility

GOHSEP serves as the State Administrative Agency (SAA) for Louisiana's FEMA Preparedness Grants. While GOHSEP applies for these funds at the federal level, much of the funding is passed through to local and state partners via subawards. Eligible subrecipients can apply through GOHSEP to support regional security and emergency management capabilities.

Examples of Eligible Activities

A wide range of activities are eligible for funding, provided they strengthen our core capabilities. Common eligible expenses include:

• Critical Equipment
• Planning & Strategy
• Training & Exercises
• Facility Infrastructure
• Management & Administration (M&A)

Some Non-Eligible Activities

While FEMA Preparedness Grants offer broad support for state and local resilience, certain activities are strictly prohibited by federal regulation. Funding cannot be used for the following:

• General-Use Equipment
• Weapons & Ammunition
• Supplanting Staff
• Lobbying & Political Activity
• Entertainment & Social Events

If you are unsure if a specific item or activity is allowable, we highly recommend consulting the FEMA Authorized Equipment List (AEL) or contacting your GOHSEP Grants Specialist for a preliminary review. Our team is here to help ensure your application meets all federal compliance standards before submission.