9-1-1 Management Authority Grant Program

The Oklahoma 9-1-1 Management Authority Grant Program provides funding to enhance public safety communication infrastructure across Oklahoma. Established through legislation (HB 3126) passed in 2016, the Authority oversees the disbursement of grants to assist with 9-1-1 service upgrades including the consolidation of call centers, deployment of Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG911) systems, and improvements in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) among other eligible projects. The primary mission of this program is to ensure Oklahomans have access to the highest quality emergency response services by supporting the modernization of critical infrastructure and compliance with state and federal standards. The program operates on a rolling deadline, accepting applications through June 30, 2026, or until all funds are depleted. The period of performance spans from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2027, and applicants may track their submissions via the EMGrants system. Eligible applicants must be governing authorities of a primary Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) and also qualify as a local government or tribal organization under 47 CFR §400.2. Entities such as city or county governments, fire or law enforcement departments, Councils of Governments (COGs), public districts or trusts, and other governmental bodies delivering 9-1-1 services are eligible to apply. Eligible funding uses are extensive and targeted toward infrastructure and technological advancement. Categories include GIS development aligned with state standards, consolidation of call centers (with capital improvements capped at $400,000 per project), deployment of NG911-compatible systems including Call Handling Equipment (CHE) up to $100,000 per position, and cybersecurity penetration testing through state-approved vendors. Other eligible costs include training and protocol development, CAD system upgrades, radio consoles, ADA compliance modifications, and continuity of operations tools. Notably, GIS and Training grants are 100% state-funded, while all other categories require a 20% cash match. The grant operates on a reimbursement basis. Applicants must initially fund their purchases and submit proof of payment for reimbursement, typically processed within seven business days but possibly taking up to twelve weeks. Prior to submission, applicants must have a valid EIN, SAM.gov registration, and an Oklahoma State Vendor Number. Required application components include a project narrative, funding plan for the cash match, vendor quotes and brochures, local governing resolutions, PSAP budgets, and additional category-specific documentation such as coverage studies or MOUs for GIS. Evaluation is competitive and awards are made solely at the Authority’s discretion. Final contracts must be executed before any expenses are reimbursed. There are explicit restrictions on ineligible expenses including personnel costs, general planning unrelated to consolidation, college tuition, vehicle purchases, or field responder equipment. The Authority mandates that assets funded by the grant remain on property owned or leased by the grantee. For cybersecurity and GIS categories, use of state-approved vendors and submission of detailed progress reports are required. Additional queries may be directed to Karen Douglas, the 9-1-1 Grants & Compliance Officer, via karen.douglas@oem.ok.gov or (405) 833-4959.

Ensure GIS vendors are on contract SW1177; all match funding must be cash unless hardship is demonstrated; CHE contracts must include NG911 compliance clauses.