The pressure on school leadership and school districts to create a safe learning environment for students is only made more difficult by funding challenges and budget shortfalls to implement comprehensive safety programs. Omdia, a global analyst and advisory company, estimates “the market for physical security equipment in K-12 and higher education at $716 million in 2020, with K-12 schools accounting for around 56% of this total.” Fortunately, resources are available for these initiatives. You just have to know where to look for them and how to write a compelling grant or application.
To help schools navigate the grant application process for safety technology, we recently sat down with Andrew Henshaw, CEO of Learn Design Apply, Inc. “Our team analyzes each school district’s specific needs and identifies eligible technologies, services, and personnel support,” Henshaw explained. “We also handle administrative hurdles, like expired SAM registrations, to ensure applications are considered.” Schools implementing solutions like Vivi’s emergency alerts can utilize Learn Design Apply’s expertise to explore and apply for grant funding.
School safety funding opportunities
To support your school safety initiatives, a range of grant programs are available—including some less obvious options—that can help close funding gaps for campus or district-wide security enhancements. Here, we’ll provide an in-depth look at several key programs.
1. COPS School Violence Prevention Program
The U.S. Department of Justice operates COPS, Community Oriented Policing Services. With the goal of prevention or mitigation, and understanding that any technology or program is only as effective as the people behind it, COPS SVPP grant focuses on threat assessment, training for school personnel, and coordination with law enforcement.
Who is eligible?
School districts and educational institutions are eligible for this grant, along with local governments and law enforcement agencies working in partnership with schools or districts.
What are some examples of projects that can be funded?
This grant is awarded for projects focused on preventing or mitigating school violence. Previously funded initiatives included threat assessment programs, training for school personnel on emergency response, recognizing behavioral threats, crisis management, communication systems that integrate with local law enforcement, as well as other technology and equipment like cameras, panic alert systems, and more.
What levels of funding are awarded/required, and what are the deadlines?
Each grant provides funding for up to three years (36 months) with a maximum federal contribution of $500,000. Recipients must also contribute a local cash match covering at least 25% of the total project cost. COPS grants are generally announced in the spring or early summer, and then close upon the deadline. Check the SVPP page to access the latest information.
How to apply for COPS SVPP funding
- Register with the System of Award Management (SAM) database
- Establish an Authorized Organization Representative (AOR) and a Grants.gov username and password
2. USDA Distance Learning and Telemedicine Program
This USDA grant helps fund technology solutions, like Vivi, that enhance communication to improve safety and outcomes during any kind of emergency response for schools in rural areas.
Who is eligible?
Rural schools and educational institutions in areas with a population of 20,000 or fewer are eligible for this grant. This grant also supports local government agencies, non-profits, and healthcare facilities in rural areas.
What are some examples of projects that can be funded?
USDA DLT program aims to fund projects that use technology to improve communication and response, especially in an emergency. Projects that get funded include establishing emergency communication systems with integrated alert systems or video communication, for use in a medical or safety emergency. Grants can cover broadband systems, computer hardware, network components, software, and audio, video, and interactive video equipment.
How to apply for the USDA DLT Program
Find a wealth of application resources for this program on the USDA RD website. Prepare a detailed project proposal outlining the proposed technology solution, budget, and expected impact. Applicants apply through Grants.gov before the annual deadline, and in addition to the project proposal, should provide supporting documents, letters of commitment, and matching fund details.
Tips for a compelling grant application
1. Conduct a thorough needs assessment: “Start with a holistic assessment, involving your fire department, law enforcement, and other relevant agencies. This establishes a foundation for prioritizing needs and developing a comprehensive safety plan.”
2. Demonstrate alignment with school safety goals: “Align your budget requests with identified needs, clearly outlining the problem and the proposed solution. Grant evaluators are looking for concise and compelling justifications for each expenditure.”
3. Write a persuasive proposal: “When writing your grant applications, emphasize the connection between the requested funding and the proposed solutions. Use compelling data to highlight the need for your initiative. Focus on quality over quantity; include only the most relevant and impactful data.”
4. Collaborate with key stakeholders: “Include letters of support from community partners, demonstrating widespread buy-in and commitment to your safety initiatives.”
Get more grant writing tips in this webinar from Learn Design Apply, Inc.
