Virginia Safety Grants

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in Prince George’s County that offer services and prevention programs to assist survivors of domestic violence and promote community safety.

This program provides funding to local governments and fire training facilities in Virginia for the construction, renovation, or repair of live fire training structures to improve fire safety and community development.

This program provides funding to state governments to enhance their ability to detect and manage unmanned aircraft systems, particularly in areas hosting significant national events.

The Loudoun County Disability Services Board sponsors an awards program, the Full Accessibility and Inclusion: Moving toward Equity (FAIME) Awards, designed to recognize businesses and organizations that demonstrate a strong commitment to the full inclusion of people with disabilities in the workplace. This program aligns with the broader mission of promoting equity and accessibility for individuals with disabilities within the community. The awards are given to those who go above and beyond in fostering an inclusive workplace and business model. The target beneficiaries of this program are people with disabilities who seek employment and professional development opportunities. The program aims to increase the recruitment, hiring, training, and promotion of people with disabilities, ultimately enhancing their participation in the workforce. The impact goals include creating more inclusive work environments and business models that provide equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The FAIME Awards program prioritizes businesses and organizations that actively demonstrate a commitment to hiring people with disabilities, providing necessary accommodations in the workplace, and offering professional development opportunities to help them grow their skills. The focus is on encouraging practices that support the long-term career growth and integration of people with disabilities. Expected outcomes of this awards program include a greater number of businesses and organizations adopting inclusive hiring and workplace practices. Measurable results could include an increase in the employment rate of people with disabilities in Loudoun County, a rise in the number of businesses offering accommodations, and a measurable improvement in professional development opportunities available to this demographic. The program serves as a strategic initiative by the Loudoun County Disability Services Board to drive systemic change and foster a more equitable and inclusive society through the workplace.

The Disability Inclusion Fund (DIF) at Borealis Philanthropy is actively seeking applications from organizations dedicated to advancing disability inclusion, rights, and justice. This grant program is deeply aligned with Borealis Philanthropy's broader mission to foster a more vibrant, just, and joyful world for people with disabilities. The fund's strategic priorities are rooted in intersectional cross-movements and collaborative efforts, supporting initiatives ranging from arts and culture to policy and advocacy that dismantle ableism and promote authentic representation of disabled people. The primary beneficiaries of DIF grants are organizations whose work is driven by and accountable to the disability justice movement, with a particular emphasis on those most impacted by injustice and exclusion. This includes disabled people with multiple and intersecting social and political identities, such as race, gender identity, class, and sexual orientation. The fund prioritizes organizations led by disabled people, specifically Black, Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC), queer, gender non-conforming, and women with disabilities, where over 50% of the leadership (management staff, advisory committees, or governing boards) identify as disabled. DIF's core focuses include promoting radical inclusion by removing barriers and ensuring access, valuing lived experience, and emphasizing the leadership of those most impacted. The program also fosters cross-movement solidarity, encouraging collaboration and bridge-building among disability justice activists and across various social movements like Black lives, climate change, immigration rights, labor rights, racial justice, and queer and trans liberation. This approach reflects a theory of change that believes systemic change occurs through interconnected movements and the empowerment of marginalized communities. Expected outcomes include strengthening grassroots disabled-led organizations, expanding their operational capacities for ongoing movement building, and driving narrative change that dismantles ableism in policy, society, and culture. Measurable results will stem from work that moves practices of disability inclusion and justice forward through community organizing, mutual aid, advocacy, and policy work, as well as strategies that celebrate and elevate the authentic representation of disabled people in arts, media, and literature. This two-year grant opportunity provides $75,000 per year, totaling $150,000, for eligible U.S.-based or U.S. territory-based 501(c)3 organizations or fiscally sponsored entities with an annual budget under $1 million.

The Arlington County Department of Human Services is offering a grant funding opportunity to support its Food Security Strategic Plan. This initiative aligns with the department's mission to address food insecurity and improve nutrition equity within Arlington County. The grant aims to support projects that enhance food access, promote outreach and education, build capacity among food assistance providers, and facilitate informed decision-making through data collection. The maximum grant award for a single project is $25,000, with funds to be spent by June 30, 2025. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are Arlington County residents experiencing food insecurity. The program targets various populations through strategies such as enhancing school-based supplemental food offerings, establishing new charitable food distributions in underserved neighborhoods, and increasing nutrition education opportunities for residents of all ages. The overarching impact goal is to eliminate, reduce, and prevent disparities in food security, ensuring that all those in need receive adequate support. The grant prioritizes projects that address at least one of five key strategies outlined in the Strategic Plan: Systemic Change, Food Access, Outreach & Education, Capacity Building, and Informed Decision Making. Specific focuses include improving nutrition equity, increasing food rescue and redistribution, promoting food assistance resources like SNAP, developing training materials for staff and volunteers, and collecting data on usage trends and services. Eligible organizations include IRS-designated 501c3 nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and public schools or universities that serve Arlington residents. Expected outcomes include improved access to nutritious food for Arlington residents, increased awareness and enrollment in food assistance programs, enhanced operational capacity for food pantries and meal programs, and better-informed decision-making based on collected data. Measurable results could include an increase in the number of residents served, the quantity of food distributed, the number of individuals participating in nutrition education, and the implementation of new or improved food security policies and practices. The grant period is from October 2024 through June 30, 2025, with funding awards announced in September 2024.

The Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) is seeking applications for its Victim Witness Grant Program (VWGP). This program provides financial support to local victim witness and statewide victim assistance programs. Its core mission is to offer direct services, information, and assistance as mandated by the Virginia Crime Victim and Witness Rights Act. The primary purpose of this funding, derived from the federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) Rule, is to support the delivery of essential services to crime victims. The program aims to address the emotional, psychological, or physical needs of crime victims, help them stabilize their lives after victimization, assist them in understanding and participating in the criminal justice system, and restore a measure of security and safety. The target beneficiaries of the VWGP are victims of crime across all counties in Virginia. The program's impact goals center on providing comprehensive direct services across various categories. These include information and referrals (e.g., about the criminal justice process, victims' rights, and other services), personal advocacy and accompaniment services (e.g., to medical care, forensic examinations, and criminal justice events), emotional support and safety services (e.g., crisis intervention, safety planning, counseling, and support groups), shelter and safe housing options (e.g., emergency shelter, transitional housing, and relocation assistance), and criminal and civil justice system assistance (e.g., notification of events and accompaniment to court hearings). The VWGP prioritizes projects that directly serve victims of crime and utilize the Victims Services Data Collection System (VSDCS) to document these services. Furthermore, eligible projects must promote community collaboration, assist victims in seeking crime victim compensation benefits through the Virginia Victims Fund (VVF), and actively involve volunteers in grant-funded activities. Recipients are also required to provide program information to other victim assistance agencies, maintain statutorily required civil rights statistics, offer services free of charge, maintain confidentiality, and serve victims of federal crimes on the same basis as state/local crimes. The expected outcomes and measurable results revolve around the effective delivery of the aforementioned direct services to victims. Through the VSDCS, the program will document the reach and types of services provided by grant-funded staff and volunteers. Success will be measured by the program's ability to respond to victims' needs, assist in their stabilization, facilitate their participation in the justice system, and enhance their safety and security. The grant period for these subawards is for state fiscal year 2025, from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025, with applicants submitting one budget for the 12-month period. This framework ensures a focused and accountable approach to supporting crime victims throughout Virginia.

The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Grant Program, offered through the United States Attorney for the Western District of Virginia in partnership with the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS), aims to provide federal funds for comprehensive, collaborative, and community-based approaches to reducing violent crime. The program's mission aligns with supporting organizations within the Western District of Virginia in their efforts to mitigate gun and gang violence. This initiative seeks to foster public safety by supporting a broad range of activities, including deterrence efforts, evidence-based programs, proven enforcement strategies, and the prosecution of significant firearm, controlled substance, and violent crime offenses. The grant targets local and state law enforcement agencies, local and state governmental entities, educational institutions, and 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations located in or serving the cities of Roanoke, Lynchburg, Danville, and Charlottesville (including Albemarle County). Multi-jurisdictional partnerships are also eligible. The primary impact goal is to reduce violent crime through a full range of appropriate strategies. Expected outcomes include a decrease in gun and gang violence, stronger community trust in law enforcement, and a more effective justice system in addressing violent offenses. The program prioritizes four key PSN design features. "Community Engagement" emphasizes meaningful communication and relationship-building between communities, law enforcement, prosecutors, and other stakeholders to build trust and shared public safety values. "Prevention and Intervention Effective" focuses on problem-solving approaches that address violent crime by leveraging resources like education, social services, job training, and reentry programs to provide individuals with skills and alternatives. "Focused and Strategic Enforcement" directs efforts towards identifying and addressing problem places and prolific offenders driving violent crime, often involving gangs and violent street groups. This includes utilizing technology and analytics, developing enforcement strategies, and deterring violence through public awareness. Finally, "Accountability" highlights the importance of analyzing and assessing the impact of PSN strategies on violent crime and community health, often in partnership with research entities, to ensure the program's success and credibility. The funding available is approximately $302,000, with grants awarded for a twelve-month period, potentially extending to 24 months based on need.

The James City County Stormwater and Resource Protection has initiated the Clean Water Heritage Grant program, aiming to promote the proper maintenance of privately owned neighborhood drainage systems and private stormwater management facilities, also known as Best Management Practices (BMPs). This program is designed to support the safety and general welfare of all County residents by ensuring these systems are well-maintained. The grant is open to a range of applicants, including Non-HOA Neighborhoods, HOAs with Public Roads, and HOAs with Private Roads within James City County, Virginia. The core mission of the Clean Water Heritage Grant aligns with safeguarding both citizens and property from the negative impacts of runoff. By focusing on drainage systems that move runoff safely through residential areas and stormwater management facilities that reduce runoff quantity and improve water quality, the program directly addresses critical environmental and public safety concerns. The target beneficiaries are residents and property owners within James City County, with the overarching impact goal of fostering a healthier and safer community through improved water management and infrastructure maintenance. The program prioritizes addressing non-routine maintenance and repairs for both drainage systems and BMPs. It offers several types of grants: Inspection Grants, which support inventorying, mapping, and inspecting existing drainage structures for operational condition; Repair & Maintenance Grants for general drainage system upkeep; and BMP Repair & Maintenance Grants specifically for stormwater management facilities. This structured approach ensures that both preventive and corrective measures are supported, allowing for comprehensive care of these vital systems. Expected outcomes include a more resilient local infrastructure capable of effectively managing stormwater, leading to reduced flooding and improved water quality across the county. Measurable results will be seen through the number of inspected and repaired drainage systems and BMPs, the documented improvements in their operating conditions, and the extent to which these efforts contribute to overall community safety and environmental health. The funding structure, with varying award limits and cost-sharing percentages (e.g., up to $6,000 for inspections with a 75%-25% JCC-Owner split, and up to $50,000 for maintenance and repairs with a 50%-50% split), further encourages shared responsibility and investment in these critical infrastructure improvements.

The Conference and Education Assistance Grant Program, established under §38.2-401-F of the Code of Virginia, is designed to support the professional development of Virginia's fire services community. This program provides financial assistance for training conferences and seminars sponsored by Virginia-based non-profit organizations. The grants aim to further the education of fire services personnel across the Commonwealth, enhancing their skills and knowledge through participation in relevant educational events. Grant renewed every year. Annual deadline: July 1st

This program provides financial assistance to businesses and property owners in Portsmouth for improving and renovating commercial spaces to enhance the local streetscape and attract more interest in the area.

The Hampton Roads Community Foundation's Economic Stability Community Grants program aims to empower individuals facing barriers to achieve stability, self-sufficiency, and prosperity. This initiative directly aligns with the foundation's core mission and belief that the region thrives when all residents have opportunities and support to lead self-determined lives. By fostering economic stability, the foundation seeks to create an environment where children can learn and grow, individuals can pursue their aspirations, and the anxieties associated with economic insecurity are alleviated. The program focuses on a strategic approach to address systemic challenges that prevent individuals from achieving economic well-being. The target beneficiaries for this grant program are people with barriers to success and low-income individuals residing in South Hampton Roads, including specific counties in Virginia such as Accomack, Northampton, Franklin, and Isle of Wight, as well as the cities of Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, and Virginia Beach. The overarching impact goal is to facilitate a pathway for these individuals to become stable, self-sufficient, and prosperous, thereby strengthening the entire region. The foundation's theory of change posits that by providing targeted support in key areas, individuals can overcome economic disadvantages and build a more secure future for themselves and their families. The program's priorities and focuses are clearly defined across three main areas. Firstly, it seeks to end homelessness by supporting programs that provide safe and affordable housing, along with supportive services to ensure long-term housing stability. Secondly, it emphasizes workforce readiness, training, and certification acquisition, connecting low-income individuals to employment opportunities, with a preference for programs that offer support to maintain employment for at least one year. Thirdly, the program promotes the development of sound financial education and savings programs to help low-income individuals build financial assets for long-term economic well-being. These strategic priorities aim to address the root causes of economic instability. The Hampton Roads Community Foundation outlines clear expected outcomes and measurable results for grant proposals. These include individuals and families experiencing homelessness being permanently housed in safe/affordable housing and remaining there for at least one year. Economically disadvantaged adults are expected to develop job-relevant skills and maintain employment for at least one year. Underemployed individuals should secure higher-wage positions post-training and remain employed for at least one year. Finally, economically disadvantaged individuals are expected to improve their financial literacy, participate in banking services, and increase their savings. Proposals must articulate their fit with these priorities, desired outcomes, and a plan for measuring program effectiveness in reaching these goals.

This funding provides local governments with matching funds to improve emergency shelters by enhancing energy generation capabilities and structural integrity, particularly for facilities serving vulnerable populations.

In accordance with §38.2-401-D of the Code of Virginia, the Live Fire Training Structure Grant Program (hereinafter referred to as "the Grant”) was established to provide defined grants to Virginia localities seeking to construct, renovate (including additions), or repair permanent Live Fire Training Structure in accordance with the most current edition of NFPA 1402. The term Live Fire Training Structure refers to a structure specifically designed for conducting live fire training evolutions on a repetitive basis in accordance with the most current edition of NFPA 1001 and 1403. The Grant is a matching/cost sharing program. The percentage of match/cost share is relative to the size of the capital project the locality intends to construct; however, the purpose of the Grant for permanent Live Fire Training Structure is to provide funding to localities for the construction, renovation, or repair of the Live Fire Training Structure only. As approved by the Virginia Fire Services Board, the Grant may also provide exclusive funding to the Virginia Department of Fire Programs for the acquisition, renovation, repair, service, and management of the Mobile Live Fire Training Structure Props Program to provide training opportunities to multiple jurisdictions in support of Fire Fighter I and Fire Fighter II Training throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia per the most current edition of NFPA 1001 & 1403 training standards. As approved by the Virginia Fire Services Board, the Grant may also provide funding to the Virginia Department of Fire Programs for the execution and delivery of an exclusive contract for engineering consulting services to the VFSB. The engineering firm is on contract to VDFP exclusively, and to prevent conflict of interest may not contract with local jurisdictions on the Grant projects for which funding is sought through the Grant. The engineering firm is on contract to and is tasked by VDFP. The principal point of contact to the engineering consulting firm shall be the Executive Director of VDFP, or his VDFP staff

The Albemarle Agribusiness Resiliency Grant, offered by Albemarle County, is designed to support direct-market agribusinesses within the county that are experiencing long-term financial impacts from the pandemic, including those caused by inflation and rising interest rates. The program aims to offset these increased costs of capital, which can hinder growth and reinvestment opportunities for local businesses. While a specific "foundation mission alignment" or "foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change" is not explicitly stated as this is a county grant rather than a foundation, the county's implicit mission aligns with supporting local economic resilience and sustainable development within its agribusiness sector. The primary target beneficiaries are direct-market agribusinesses located in Albemarle County, Virginia. This includes businesses that sell products to restaurants, caterers, and local stores, as well as orchards, wineries, cideries, and those operating at farmers markets. The impact goals are centered on enhancing the financial stability and operational capacity of these agribusinesses, enabling them to navigate economic challenges and continue their contributions to the local economy. The grant prioritizes several key areas for funding. These include new capital investments such as machinery, tools, and other business equipment, which directly support operational improvements and expansion. Additionally, the grant focuses on expenses incurred since July 1, 2022, to advance sustainable agricultural practices, enhance public health, safety, and welfare for employees or visitors, and comply with state or local regulations. Up to 20% of awarded funds can also be allocated for advertising and marketing, recognizing the importance of market visibility for direct-market businesses. The expected outcomes include strengthened agribusinesses within Albemarle County, leading to sustained operations, improved competitiveness, and continued economic activity. Measurable results would involve the number of grants distributed (anticipated to be 3-8 grants in this round), the total budget utilized ($60,000 for this round), and the types of investments made by awardees. Although not explicitly detailed as a "theory of change," the county's approach suggests that by providing direct financial assistance for critical investments and operational needs, agribusinesses will be better positioned to adapt to economic pressures, fostering a more resilient and thriving local agricultural economy.

The City of Newport News is offering a Gun Violence Intervention Grant to fund or enhance evidence-based strategies and projects that reduce gun violence within the city. This grant program aligns with the city's commitment to partner with community-based organizations (CBOs) to interrupt cycles of violence and support those at the highest risk. The program represents the third and final year of the GVIP cohort that began in FY 2023, with an allocation of $1,000,000 in the City Manager’s recommended operating budget for FY 2025. Organizations may be eligible for future funding through the annual City of Newport News Community Support Agency Grant program, which opens in October 2024. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are children, youth, young adults, and families residing in Newport News. The impact goal is to significantly reduce gun violence by implementing or enhancing effective, evidence-based strategies. Proposals are expected to demonstrate the utilization of such strategies and have a clear sustainability plan that includes sources of funding beyond the City of Newport News. Applicants for continuation funding must show progress and success from their FY 2024 projects. The grant prioritizes efforts around seven critical areas: Effective Conflict Resolution, Healthy Family Functioning, Economic Prosperity, Gun Control & Safety, A Caring Community, Mental Wellness & Healing, and Effective Deterrence & Adjudication. Projects eligible for continuation funding must address one or more of these critical areas, or focus on concentrated poverty, access to guns, desensitized communities, the judicial system, mental health/unaddressed trauma, family dysfunction, or poor conflict resolution. Additionally, projects relating to youth violence prevention or early intervention should align with CDC guidelines on individual, family, community, peer, and social risk factors. Collaboration among organizations is strongly encouraged. Expected outcomes include a reduction in gun violence within Newport News through community-based and evidence-based prevention and intervention projects. Measurable results will stem from addressing the identified critical areas and risk factors. The city's strategic priorities are to support CBOs in their violence reduction efforts using best practices. The theory of change is that by funding and partnering with these organizations to implement targeted, evidence-based interventions in critical areas, cycles of violence can be interrupted, and the well-being of those most at risk can be improved, leading to a safer community. The grant period is from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025.

This funding opportunity is designed to assist Virginia local governments in enhancing security and preparedness for nonprofit organizations and institutions at risk of hate crimes.

This program provides financial support to organizations and event planners to develop and promote multi-day athletic events in Virginia Beach, boosting tourism and the local economy.

The Virginia Emergency Shelter Upgrade Assistance Fund was established by Senate Bill 350, introduced by Senator Lucas, effective from July 1, 2020. This fund is dedicated to providing matching funds to local governments for installing, maintaining, or repairing emergency shelter infrastructure to enhance resilience against natural disasters. This includes infrastructure for backup energy generation, such as solar energy generators, and wind retrofitting to improve structural integrity. The fund prioritizes projects that protect vulnerable populations, offer long-term risk solutions, and support primary shelter enhancements as verified by Local Capabilities Assessment Reports (LCAR). Eligible applicants are local governments with a current and locally-adopted emergency operations plan compliant with Virginia’s Emergency Services and Disaster Laws. Local governments are restricted to one application per year and must have completed any prior funded projects before applying.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations and schools in the Charlottesville area to create innovative projects that combine environmental education with the visual and performing arts for children who have limited access to these experiences.