CONNECTICUT
Nonprofit Security Grant Program (CT-NSGP)
Connecticut state funding for security infrastructure improvements with no limit on number of sites.
$50K
Per site, unlimited number of sites
State
Funded by CT DEMHS
What Is CT-NSGP?
The Connecticut Nonprofit Security Grant Program (CT-NSGP) is a state-funded competitive grant providing reimbursement for security infrastructure improvements to nonprofit organizations at risk of hate crimes, terrorist attacks, or violent acts.
CT-NSGP is separate from the federal NSGP. Connecticut organizations can apply for both. There is no limit on the number of sites – each site can receive up to $50,000.
Key differences from federal NSGP: does NOT cover security personnel costs – equipment and infrastructure only. CT-NSGP can also be used to retroactively reimburse security work already performed.
Who Is Eligible?
- 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofits located in Connecticut
- Houses of worship, religious schools, faith-based and cultural nonprofits
- Must occupy the facility (owned or leased) at the time of application
- Documented credible risk of terrorist or bias-motivated attack
- Compliance with Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (DEMHS) application requirements
What Can the Funding Be Used For?
Allowable expenses under the Connecticut Nonprofit Security Grant Program (CT-NSGP) 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
Communication Systems
Emergency communications and mass notification tools
Security Training
Active threat training, emergency preparedness exercises, drills
Cybersecurity Improvements
Firewalls, secure networks, data protection, cybersecurity training
Application Process for the CT-NSGP
The CT-NSGP is competitive. Applications are submitted to the Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (DEMHS), which reviews and scores them against state criteria. A strong application requires a documented threat case, a vulnerability assessment, and a detailed project narrative. CT-NSGP can also be used to retroactively reimburse security work already performed. We track deadlines for Connecticut and advise on timing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Practical answers about applying for the Connecticut Nonprofit Security Grant Program (CT-NSGP).
Who can apply for the CT-NSGP?
Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofits located in Connecticut that can document a credible risk of hate crimes, terrorist attacks, or violent acts. This typically includes houses of worship, religious schools, faith-based and cultural organizations whose mission, ideology, or community make them targets. The nonprofit must occupy the facility (owned or leased) at the time of application.
How much funding can a Connecticut nonprofit receive through CT-NSGP?
Award amounts are set per cycle by the Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (DEMHS). Most recent guidance: up to $50,000 per site, with no limit on the number of sites. The program is reimbursement-based, so plan for a 30–90 day cash-flow gap between vendor payment and DEMHS reimbursement. Multi-site organizations may be eligible for higher totals depending on facility count and risk documentation.
Who administers the CT-NSGP and where do I find the official source?
The CT-NSGP is administered by DEMHS — the official source for solicitations, NOFOs, and current-cycle deadlines is https://portal.ct.gov/DEMHS. The agency publishes annual scoring rubrics and supplemental guidance there. Working from the official source (rather than third-party summaries) is the best way to avoid disqualification on technicalities.
When does the Connecticut application window open and close?
Connecticut-specific; check DEMHS for the current cycle. Application windows historically run 30–60 days from solicitation publication. Subscribe to the DEMHS announcement list or set a calendar reminder near the historical cycle dates so you are not caught short on document preparation, which typically takes 4–6 weeks for a competitive submission.
What can CT-NSGP funds be used for?
Allowable expenses include physical security equipment (cameras, locks, barriers, access control, ballistic-resistant materials), surveillance and monitoring systems, security training for staff and volunteers, and planning costs. CT-NSGP does not cover contract security personnel — equipment and infrastructure only. CT-NSGP can also be used to retroactively reimburse security work already performed. Always cross-check the current cycle's NOFO for the precise allowable-expense list — categories can shift between cycles.
Does the CT-NSGP require a match or cost share?
State-funded programs sometimes diverge from the federal NSGP match policy. Confirm the current CT-NSGP match requirement on the DEMHS solicitation. Carefully review the cost-share rules in the current solicitation: nonprofits that assume the federal rule applies to a state-funded program (or vice versa) sometimes submit budgets that get partially disallowed during review.