Widseth Blog

2023 Assistance to Firefighters Grants

Written by Gail Leverson, MBA, EDFP - Senior Funding Specialist | Aug 23, 2023 3:57:46 PM

Start preparing to apply for the 2023 Assistance to Firefighters Grant round now. Contracting with Widseth will help ensure your application is accurate, complete, and submitted on time.

 

1. Program & Description

Assistance to Firefighters Grants

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

The primary goal of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) is to meet the firefighting and emergency response needs of fire departments and nonaffiliated Emergency Medical Service organizations. Since 2001, AFG has helped firefighters and other first responders obtain equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training, and other resources to protect the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards. AFG is an annual funding program.

 

2. Eligible Activities

The FY 2023 AFG Program has three activities:

  • Operations and Safety
  • Vehicle Acquisition
  • Regional Projects

 

3. Type of Funding

Funding assistance is provided through federal grants combined with non-federal funds. A 95% grant typically requires a 5% non-federal contribution when serving a jurisdiction of 20,000 residents or fewer. Larger jurisdictions would be required to provide a higher percentage of non-federal funds. Cost-sharing requirements for the 2023 grant round will be announced when the program opens.

 

4. Application Requirements

The following items are needed to apply:

  • A Unique Entity Identifier (UEI).
  • A current System for Award Management (SAM) registration. SAM must be updated every 365 days, so make sure your SAM registration is active.
  • A FEMA GO account set up with usernames and passwords.

Widseth can provide SAM.gov registration or FEMA Go account assistance.

  

5. Funding Success

The Widseth funding team brings over 30 years of AFG writing experience to your department. We meet with your fire department, either in person or virtually, and work in partnership with you to complete the application. 

 

6. How to Get Started

Widseth is committed to cities and fire departments in Minnesota and North Dakota by supporting their safety and fire protection needs. Contact us today to set up your contract for 2023 AFG writing assistance.