PSAP Grant Program

The Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs, through its Office of Emergency Communications (DMA/OEC), administers the PSAP Grant Program to support the advancement of emergency communications infrastructure in the state. For Fiscal Year 2026 Round 2, the PSAP Grant Program aims to fund Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) implementation efforts, including advanced training and technology upgrades at designated Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs). With an anticipated allocation of $4 million from the Wisconsin 911 Fund, the program reflects the state’s commitment to improving the quality, efficiency, and resilience of 9-1-1 services statewide. Eligible applicants include Designated PSAPs that comply with standards outlined in the Wisconsin Administrative Code DMA Chapter 2. These include mandatory training protocols, service delivery benchmarks, and operational policies such as continuity of operations planning. Each county is allowed to designate one PSAP for funding eligibility, and PSAPs that already received FY2026 Round 1 awards are excluded from this round. Key requirements include a basic training program of at least 40 hours covering geographic awareness, emergency operations systems, caller processing procedures, and continuity planning. Additionally, all PSAPs must implement Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) protocols within three years of their first award. Allowable grant expenses include advanced telecommunicator training, NG9-1-1 enabling hardware and software, and activities supporting consolidation of PSAP functions. Projects aiming to consolidate two or more PSAPs may receive match waivers or adjusted award ceilings. Unallowable expenses cover general overhead, staffing, emergency response equipment, construction, or costs incurred outside the grant period. Grant funds are provided on a reimbursement basis post project closeout. Applicants must contribute a 10% cash match from eligible non-state and non-federal sources. Applications are to be submitted by email to [email protected] with all documents in PDF format (except the budget spreadsheet) no later than 11:59 PM CT on February 19, 2026. Required components include a completed application form, a project narrative, a sustainability plan, training documentation, continuity plans, and vendor quotes. Consolidation projects require additional documentation including written agreements and technology migration plans. Evaluation of applications will prioritize projects aligned with key NG9-1-1 upgrades, such as ESInet and CAD upgrades, telecommunicator training, cybersecurity, and continuity planning. Proposals will also be scored based on clarity of the implementation plan, feasibility of the timeline, and the strength of collaboration with local land information offices. Awards will be announced by May 2026, with projects beginning June 1, 2026, and concluding by December 1, 2027. Quarterly reporting is required throughout the project duration, and financial records must be retained for four years. In the event of denial, applicants have the option to submit a written request for reconsideration within 30 days of the decision. Grantees are also responsible for documenting and preserving records of matching funds and equipment acquired through the grant.

Projects that enhance NG9-1-1, COOP, and collaboration with Land Information Offices will be prioritized.