Grants for First Responders

Grants for First Responders provide funding for organizations and programs in this focus area. Sources include federal agencies, state programs, and private foundations. Use the listings below to find current opportunities, eligibility requirements, and deadlines — and apply directly to the funder when you find a fit.

323 grants
State/ Foundation
Updated daily
PARAMEDIC RESOURCES INC · Rolling / Open · Annual Foundation

Nicholas Rosecrans Award Organization: California Paramedic Foundation (in partnership with EMS World, RedFlash Group, and Air Methods Corporation) Overview: National award recognizing individuals…

Norfolk Southern Foundation · Rolling / Open Foundation

Norfolk Southern In-Kind Donation Grant Status: ACTIVE Funder: Norfolk Southern Foundation Last Updated: February 19, 2026 Summary The Norfolk Southern In-Kind Donation Grant supports organizations…

THE RHODE ISLAND COMMUNITY FOUNDATION · Rolling / Open Foundation

North Smithfield Ambulance & Rescue Association Fund Grants Status: ACTIVE Funder: The Rhode Island Community Foundation Amount: US $800 - US $2,500 Last Updated: February 12, 2026 Summary The North…

THE DALLAS FOUNDATION · Rolling / Open · One-time Foundation

North Texas Cares - Phase One (COVID-19 Response) Overview: A joint initiative of 15+ North Texas organizations including The Dallas Foundation created to provide emergency funding for nonprofits…

THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION FOR NORTHERN · Rolling / Open Foundation

Northern Virginia First Responders Scholarship Fund Grant Status: ACTIVE Funder: The Community Foundation for Northern Virginia Amount: Up to US $5,000 Last Updated: February 07, 2026 Summary The…

$500 per award (multiple awards: one per Troop plus five statewide)
NEW YORK STATE POLICE INVESTIGATORS · July 16, 2027 · Annual Foundation

NYSPIA Fallen Heroes Memorial Scholarship Overview: The New York State Police Investigators Association Fallen Heroes Memorial Scholarship is named in memory of NYSPIA members who have died in the…

Covers 80% of tuition
Foundations in Education Inc · Rolling / Open · Annual Foundation

O'Malley Scholarship Overview: Scholarship established through a $500,000 five-year commitment to Trinity Catholic High School for children of first responders and healthcare workers. Geographic…

Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board · Rolling / Open State

Office of Emergency Medical Services (OEMS) - Grants The Minnesota Office of Emergency Medical Services administers legislatively named, formula, and a competitive grant program to support the…

Varies (multiple awards per year, ranging from $1,500 to $15,000+)
CLAY ELECTRIC FOUNDATION INC · Rolling / Open · Rolling (Quarterly) Foundation

Operation Round Up Grant Program Funder: Clay Electric Foundation Inc Program Description: The Clay Electric Foundation approves grants throughout the year from the Operation Round Up program. This…

THE RHODE ISLAND COMMUNITY FOUNDATION · Rolling / Open Foundation

Overview Opioid Settlement Impact and Recovery Grants In January 2022, Rhode Island joined the national opioid settlement with three major opioid distributors, leading to over $90 million in funding…

Program support varies; examples: $250 for training gear, $500 for mannequins, $1,000 for EMT training classes
SAN DIEGO REGIONAL FIRE & EMERGENCY · Rolling / Open · Annual Foundation

Paramedic/Fire Academy Cadet Training Program Funder: San Diego Regional Fire Foundation Geographic Scope: San Diego County, California - Focus on Health Sciences High and Middle College (City…

Up to $200,000 (recent grant)
SAN DIEGO REGIONAL FIRE & EMERGENCY · Rolling / Open · Annual Foundation

Paramedic/Fire Academy Scholarship Program Funder: San Diego Regional Fire Foundation Geographic Scope: San Diego County, California Focus Areas: - Financial assistance for individuals pursuing…

EAST TEXAS COMMUNITIES FOUNDATION · Rolling / Open Foundation

Peace Officers and Firefighters Scholarship Grant Status: ACTIVE Funder: East Texas Communities Foundation Last Updated: October 07, 2025 Summary The Peace Officers and Firefighters Scholarship,…

PITTSBURGH EMERGENCY MEDICINE FOUNDATION · Rolling / Open · One-time Foundation

PEMF Pandemic Grant Program Funder: Pittsburgh Emergency Medicine Foundation (PEMF) Launch Date: April 6, 2020 Geographic Scope: Western Pennsylvania (10 counties, 59 different EMS services funded to…

$1,000 ($500 per semester)
PHOENIX LAW ENFORCEMENT ASSOCIATION · May 1, 2026 · Annual Foundation

Phoenix Police Cadet Scholarship Funder: 906 Foundation (PLEA & 906 Foundation) Program Purpose: Merit-based scholarship for Phoenix Police Cadets pursuing careers in law enforcement or first…

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of grants for first responders are available?
Grants for First Responders come from a mix of sources. Federal grants typically have the largest awards but more competition. State programs often pass through federal funding with state-specific priorities. Foundation grants tend to be smaller but more flexible, with funders looking for organizations whose mission aligns with their giving priorities.
Who is eligible for grants for first responders?
Eligibility varies by funder. Most grants require 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, though some are open to schools, government agencies, businesses, or individuals. Each listing on this page links to the source application where you can find specific eligibility criteria, required documents, and how to apply.
How do I apply for grants for first responders?
Start by reviewing the listings below for grants that match your organization's mission and stage. Click through to each grant's source page for full application details. Most funders require an organizational profile, project narrative, budget, and supporting documents. Apply early — competitive grants often close before their deadline.

Ready to apply for these grants?

  • Assess your eligibility for this grant
  • Draft a tailored application narrative
  • Track the deadline and get reminders
  • Find similar grants from other funders