The California State Nonprofit Security Grant Program (CSNSGP), administered by the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), provides critical funding to enhance the physical security of nonprofit organizations in California at high risk of violent attacks and hate crimes. The CSNSGP is part of the state's ongoing efforts to improve public safety and promote community resilience in the face of increasing threats against ideological, religious, or mission-driven institutions. With $76 million allocated in the Fiscal Year 2025–26 budget, the program aims to strengthen protective measures across a diverse range of nonprofit facilities throughout the state.
This competitive grant is targeted at California-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, including religious institutions such as churches, synagogues, and mosques. These entities do not need to provide IRS exemption letters if they are inherently exempt. Each applicant may submit up to two proposals, each for a separate physical location they currently occupy. A separate stream of funding is available for Support Services (SS) applicants, who may request up to $500,000 to provide vulnerability assessments, training, mass notification systems, monitoring and response systems, and emergency equipment to other eligible nonprofits. Only one type of proposal may be submitted per applicant—either Individual or SS.
Eligible costs under CSNSGP include planning, equipment, training, construction or renovation (up to $100,000), contracted security services (limited to 50% of the grant request), and administrative expenses (capped at 5%). Proposals must be thorough and clearly demonstrate a link between identified threats or vulnerabilities and the requested security enhancements. All proposed activities must be necessary, reasonable, and allocable to the stated objective of enhancing facility security. Sustainability is expected beyond the grant period.
To apply, applicants must submit a complete proposal via email to CSNSGP@caloes.ca.gov by December 12, 2025, 11:59 PM PDT. Required documents include a version-specific application form, a vulnerability assessment worksheet, and supporting documentation such as proof of property ownership or lease, Google Maps images of the facility, and potentially a letter from a parent organization if using its FEIN. Late, incomplete, or improperly formatted submissions will not be accepted.
Proposals are evaluated based on a 48-point rubric, covering six areas: applicant information, background, risk, security enhancements, milestones, and impact. To qualify for funding, proposals must score at least 40 points. Selected applicants will be notified in writing and required to submit additional documentation and participate in a post-award workshop. The performance period for funded projects is March 1, 2026, to December 31, 2027.
This program does not require matching funds. Awards range between $250,000 to $500,000 and are distributed as reimbursements. While the program is not explicitly recurring, past iterations and structured timelines suggest an annual cycle. The next expected round is anticipated to begin in Fall 2026, with internal preparations beginning by September 1, 2026.
