Applications for Homeland Security grant funding are being accepted until Feb. 18 at 5 p.m. CT. The South Dakota Office of Homeland Security provides grant funding through an application and award process to a variety of organizations, including public and non-public schools.

Funding will be awarded for one-time projects that have a connection to Homeland Security by providing protection against terrorism threats. Examples of allowable expenses for schools are keyless entry, door locks, video entry, intercom systems, security lighting, metal detectors, access barriers, and critical infrastructure assessments. In addition, cybersecurity equipment or software such as intrusion detection systems and physical protection of hardware systems are allowable. At this time, surveillance cameras are not being funded.

Awards are competitive and will be based on recommendations of regional review committees. Funding for projects will become available on or about Sept. 1, 2022. Award agreements will be generated after funding becomes available; projects cannot start before the award date.

Questions? Find more information on the Department of Public Safety's South Dakota Homeland Security Grants webpage or call 605-773-3450.

To apply for a Homeland Security grant, read through the application instructions and apply online by Feb. 18 at 5 p.m. CT.