Tennessee Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP)

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), operating under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, administers the Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) grant programs to support the implementation of long-term risk reduction strategies for natural hazards. FEMA’s HMA programs are a central part of the national strategy for increasing disaster resilience by funding projects that proactively mitigate disaster risks before an event occurs. The agency collaborates with state, local, tribal, and territorial governments to plan for and implement projects that reduce the impact of future disasters and lower overall recovery costs. The purpose of HMA grants is to break the cycle of disaster damage, repair, and repeated damage. These grants provide funding for a variety of mitigation planning and project implementation activities. Eligible activities include projects that reduce flood risk to structures insured under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), mitigate wildfire risk post-disaster, prepare hazard mitigation plans, and reduce risks from natural hazards through infrastructure improvement. The HMA grant programs include the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM), Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA), the Swift Current initiative, Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund (RLF), and the National Dam Safety Program. Each program has unique eligibility criteria and funding mechanisms but share a common goal of supporting mitigation initiatives across jurisdictions. FEMA’s approach to eligibility is inclusive of state and local governments, U.S. territories, and federally recognized Tribal Nations. Notably, Tribal governments may apply directly to FEMA for HMA funding and are not required to apply through their respective states, although they may choose to do so. An essential prerequisite for receiving non-emergency hazard mitigation funding is the adoption of a FEMA-approved hazard mitigation plan. The HMA programs require applicants to demonstrate the cost-effectiveness of their proposed projects and ensure that the initiatives align with local mitigation strategies. The submission process varies depending on the specific program under the HMA umbrella. Some funding opportunities, such as the Swift Current initiative, are available in response to specific disaster declarations and may have limited application windows—for instance, June 1, 2023, through May 31, 2024. Other programs may offer annual or rolling application cycles. Regardless of the program, applicants are expected to submit a complete application including project descriptions, budgets, cost-benefit analyses, environmental and historic preservation documentation, and relevant local mitigation planning documentation. Training and tools are made available by FEMA to assist applicants throughout this process. Evaluation criteria are determined at both the federal and state levels, with FEMA reviewing applications for eligibility, feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with strategic mitigation priorities. Awards are contingent upon available funding, compliance with program guidelines, and the merit of the submitted proposal. Performance periods vary by project scope and can extend multiple years. Technical assistance is available throughout the application and project implementation phases. The HMA programs also emphasize transparency and partnership. FEMA publishes guidance such as the HMA Program and Policy Guide and maintains a portfolio of mitigation action case studies. Annual updates like the "Hazard Mitigation Year in Review" offer insights into overall funding trends and successful projects. Contact information for specific program officers is provided within individual program announcements, and additional resources are available through FEMA’s Tribal Affairs hub for tribal governments. Application timelines and funding availability are subject to change and depend on appropriations, disaster declarations, and program-specific requirements.