FEMA is announcing the availability of $40 million through the Next Generation Warning System Grant Program (NGWSGP) to support states and Tribal Nations. This funding aims to identify gaps and implement solutions for delivering timely public emergency alerts and protecting critical infrastructure. Recipients will collaborate with FEMA to explore flexible, innovative technologies compatible with the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) to improve emergency communication.
As technology evolves and public preferences shift, the grant encourages the use of current and emerging audio-visual technologies across multiple platforms. These include streaming services, sirens, giant-voice systems, satellites, and internet-connected devices, all designed to enable interactive and actionable emergency alerts. The focus is on adopting a range of distribution pathways to reach the public effectively during emergencies.
The program also emphasizes enhancing the resilience of IPAWS-compatible alert systems by promoting collaborative training, testing, exercises, and evaluations. Grantees will work on developing governance, policies, plans, and procedures to improve cross-jurisdictional coordination before, during, and after emergencies, ensuring a whole-community approach to public warning.
This funding announcement follows a thorough evaluation of FEMA’s grant programs to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse, underscoring a commitment to accountability for taxpayers. Eligible applicants are encouraged to review the Notices of Funding Opportunity on Grants.gov to understand the requirements, evaluation criteria, and application timelines.
Overall, FEMA aims to empower states and Tribal Nations to lead their disaster preparedness and response efforts, thereby strengthening national security and resilience through improved emergency alert and warning systems.
