CALIFORNIA
State Nonprofit Security Grant Program (CSNSGP)
$500K
Up to $250K per site, max 2 sites
State
Funded by Cal OES
What Is CSNSGP?
The California State Nonprofit Security Grant Program (CSNSGP) was established in 2019 following the Poway synagogue shooting. It provides state funding for physical security enhancements to religious, political, and mission-based nonprofit institutions at risk of hate crimes or terrorist attacks.
CSNSGP is a separate program from the federal NSGP, though both are administered through Cal OES. California organizations can hold awards under both programs. The federal NSGP allows organizations to apply for up to $200,000 per site, for up to three sites per funding stream. CSNSGP allows up to $250,000 per site, capped at two sites and $500,000 total.
Who Is Eligible?
- 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofits located in California
- Houses of worship, religious schools, faith-based and cultural nonprofits
- Must occupy the facility (owned or leased) at the time of application
- Must be considered high risk for violent attacks or hate crimes due to ideology, beliefs, or mission
- Compliance with California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) application requirements
What Can the Funding Be Used For?
Allowable expenses under the California State Nonprofit Security Grant Program (CSNSGP) typically include:
Physical Security Equipment
Barriers, fencing, lighting, reinforced doors and windows, bollards
Surveillance and Monitoring
CCTV cameras, intrusion detection systems
Access Control
Card readers, electronic locks, key fob systems
Planning
Security plans, emergency contingency plans, evacuation and shelter-in-place plans.
Security Training
Active threat training, emergency preparedness exercises, drills
Contract Security Personnel
Professional security services (with restrictions)
Application Process for the CSNSGP
The CSNSGP is competitive. Applications are submitted to the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), which reviews and scores them against its own evaluation criteria. A strong application requires a well-substantiated discussion of threat, vulnerability, and consequences, a completed Vulnerability Assessment Worksheet, and a fully completed CSNSGP Application Form.
Frequently Asked Questions
Practical answers about applying for the California State Nonprofit Security Grant Program (CSNSGP).
Who can apply for the CSNSGP?
Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofits located in California that are at high risk for violent attacks or hate crimes due to their ideology, beliefs, or mission. This typically includes houses of worship, religious schools, and faith-based or cultural organizations. The nonprofit must occupy the facility (owned or leased) at the time of application. California nonprofits can hold awards under both the federal NSGP and CSNSGP in the same cycle — they are separate funding streams.
How much funding can a California nonprofit receive through CSNSGP?
Up to $250,000 per site, capped at two sites and $500,000 total per organization. CSNSGP is a state-funded program, administered separately from the federal NSGP.
Who administers the CSNSGP and where do I find the official source?
The CSNSGP is administered by California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) — the official source for solicitations, NOFOs, and current-cycle deadlines is https://www.caloes.ca.gov/.
When does the California application window open and close?
Timing varies by cycle. The FY 2025-26 window ran from October 31, 2025 to December 12, 2025.
What can CSNSGP funds be used for?
Allowable expenses generally include physical security equipment, surveillance and access control systems, security training for staff and volunteers, and planning costs. Always cross-check the current cycle's RFP for the precise allowable-expense list — categories can shift between cycles.
Does the CSNSGP require a match or cost share?
No.