MASSACHUSETTS
Commonwealth Nonprofit Security Grant Program (CNSGP)
Massachusetts state funding for nonprofit security, with separate programs for equipment and personnel.
$75K
Equipment and infrastructure (CNSGP)
$40K
Security personnel (CNSPGP, 1:1 match)
What Is CNSGP?
Massachusetts offers two separate state-funded security grant programs: the Commonwealth Nonprofit Security Grant Program (CNSGP) for equipment and infrastructure ($75K max, no match), and the Commonwealth Nonprofit Security Personnel Grant Program (CNSPGP) for hiring security personnel ($40K max, 1:1 match required).
Both programs are separate from the federal NSGP. Massachusetts organizations can apply for all three.
Key differences from federal NSGP: two separate state programs means two separate applications. Priority is given to organizations who have NOT previously received CNSGP funding.
Who Is Eligible?
- 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofits located in Massachusetts
- 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 Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) application requirements
What Can the Funding Be Used For?
Allowable expenses under the Massachusetts Commonwealth Nonprofit Security Grant Program (CNSGP) 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
Contract Security Personnel
Professional security services (with restrictions)
Cybersecurity Improvements
Firewalls, secure networks, data protection, cybersecurity training
Application Process for the CNSGP
The CNSGP is competitive. Applications are submitted to Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS), which reviews and scores them against state and federal criteria. A strong application requires a documented threat case, a vulnerability assessment, and a written Investment Justification.
The period of performance for awarded grants typically runs one to three years. We track deadlines for Massachusetts and advise on timing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Practical answers about applying for the Massachusetts Commonwealth Nonprofit Security Grant Program (CNSGP).
Who can apply for the CNSGP?
Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofits located in Massachusetts that can document a credible risk of terrorist or bias-motivated attack. 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 Massachusetts nonprofit receive through CNSGP?
Award amounts are set per cycle by Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS). Most recent guidance: Federal NSGP pass-through.. The program is reimbursement-based, so plan for a 30-90 day cash-flow gap between vendor payment and Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) reimbursement. Multi-site organizations may be eligible for higher totals depending on facility count and risk documentation.
Who administers the CNSGP and where do I find the official source?
The CNSGP is administered by Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) — the official source for solicitations, NOFOs, and current-cycle deadlines is https://www.mass.gov/orgs/executive-office-of-public-safety-and-security. 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 Massachusetts application window open and close?
Aligned with federal NSGP cycle. Application windows historically run 30-60 days from solicitation publication. Subscribe to the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) 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 CNSGP funds be used for?
Allowable expenses generally 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. Always cross-check the current cycle's NOFO for the precise allowable-expense list — categories can shift between cycles.
Does the CNSGP require a match or cost share?
The federal NSGP does not require a cash or in-kind match in current cycles. However, all NSGP funding is reimbursement-based, meaning the nonprofit pays vendors upfront and submits documentation to be reimbursed. 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.