MAINE
Maine Nonprofit Security Grant Program (ME-NSGP)
Maine state funding for physical security at nonprofit facilities at risk of targeted violence.
$25K
Maximum per site (up to 3 sites, $75K per organization)
State
Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA)
What Is ME-NSGP?
The Maine Nonprofit Security Grant Program (ME-NSGP) is a new state-funded program established in 2026 under LD 2107 to help nonprofit organizations enhance physical security and preparedness against threats or attacks. Administered by the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA).
ME-NSGP is separate from the federal NSGP that MEMA also administers. The first round made $190,000 available statewide, with awards of up to $25,000 per site and up to three sites per organization.
Key differences from federal NSGP: smaller awards, a simpler application, a 10-point scoring bonus for organizations that have never received federal NSGP funding, and contract security that may supplement but not replace existing security spending.
Who Is Eligible?
- 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofits located in Maine, or organizations the State otherwise recognizes as nonprofits serving the public interest
- Houses of worship, educational nonprofits, community centers and other facilities at high risk of a terrorist attack, extremist attack, hate crime or targeted violence
- A separate application and site-specific vulnerability and risk assessment is required for each site (up to three per organization)
- Organizations that have never received federal NSGP funding receive 10 bonus points in scoring
What Can the Funding Be Used For?
Allowable expenses under the Maine Nonprofit Security Grant Program (ME-NSGP) typically include:
Physical Security Equipment
Target-hardening projects, hardened doors and windows, and protective barriers
Access Control
Entry control systems, locks and visitor management
Surveillance and Monitoring
Video surveillance and alarm systems
Exterior Lighting
Security lighting for entrances, parking areas and perimeters
Contract Security
Contracted security services that supplement, but do not supplant, current security expenses
Security Planning
Planning activities tied to the facility’s security and preparedness
Application Process for the ME-NSGP
The ME-NSGP is competitive. Applications are scored on a 65-point scale covering background, risk, facility hardening, milestones and impact, plus a 10-point bonus for organizations that have never received federal NSGP funding. Each application must include a site-specific vulnerability and risk assessment, proof of nonprofit status, and a mission statement and organizational overview. Weapons, general operating expenses, routine maintenance, unrelated construction and ongoing salaries are not allowable.
The first round closed August 23, 2026, with a period of performance beginning October 1, 2026. No match is required and awards are paid on a reimbursement basis. Future rounds depend on state appropriations. We track Maine announcements and advise on timing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Practical answers about applying for the Maine Nonprofit Security Grant Program (ME-NSGP).
Who can apply for the ME-NSGP?
501(c)(3) nonprofits in Maine, or organizations the State otherwise recognizes as nonprofits serving the public interest, that can show a high risk of terrorist attack, extremist attack, hate crime or targeted violence. The program explicitly includes houses of worship, educational nonprofits and community centers. Each site needs its own application and site-specific vulnerability and risk assessment.
How much funding can a Maine organization receive through ME-NSGP?
Up to $25,000 per site, for up to three sites, or a maximum of $75,000 per organization. The first round made $190,000 available statewide. No cost share or match is required, and awards are reimbursement-based.
What can ME-NSGP funds be used for?
Planning, equipment and physical security enhancements such as access control, video surveillance and exterior lighting, plus contract security that supplements rather than replaces existing security spending. Weapons and ammunition, general operating expenses, routine non-security maintenance, unrelated construction, ongoing personnel salaries, entertainment and lobbying are not allowable.
How is ME-NSGP different from the federal NSGP?
ME-NSGP is funded by the State of Maine under LD 2107 and uses a shorter application scored on 65 points. Awards are much smaller than federal NSGP awards, and organizations that have never received federal NSGP funding get a 10-point scoring bonus, so it is designed to reach facilities the federal program has not. Maine organizations can pursue both as long as the same costs are not claimed twice.
Who administers the ME-NSGP and where do I apply?
The Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) administers the program. The NOFO, FAQ and vulnerability self-assessment tool are posted on MEMA's ME-NSGP page at maine.gov/mema, and the program team can be reached at HSGrants.Maine@Maine.Gov. MEMA also offers one-on-one technical assistance meetings during the application window.
When does the Maine application window open and close?
The first round was released July 1, 2026 and closed August 23, 2026 after an extension, with a period of performance starting October 1, 2026. Future rounds depend on state funding. We monitor MEMA and the Legislature and notify clients when a new round is announced.