Pays for armorFederal
Open until Oct 30, 2026
U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance
Law enforcementCorrections
Reimburses up to 50 percent of the cost of ballistic or stab-resistant body armor vests for law enforcement officers. Vests must have been tested through the NIJ Compliance Testing Program and comply with the most current NIJ standards (appear on the NIJ Compliant Products List as of the order date), be uniquely fitted to the officer, and be made in the United States. The jurisdiction must have a written mandatory wear policy for uniformed officers in effect at application. BVP does not fund replacement trauma plates for existing vests.
- Match
- Up to 50 percent federal share; the applicant pays the rest. A financial or natural disaster hardship waiver can raise reimbursement up to 100 percent for vests with a unit cost of $1,200 or less, excluding taxes, shipping and handling. JAG funds may not be used as the BVP match.
- Who can apply
- States, units of local government and federally recognized Indian tribes that employ law enforcement officers. By statute, jurisdictions with fewer than 100,000 residents are funded first.
- When
- The FY 2026 BVP application period is open until October 30, 2026 (OJP program page, modified October 1, 2026). Awards are paid as reimbursements through the BVP System.
Pays for armorFederal
Open until Oct 15, 2026
U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services
Law enforcement
Allowable equipment includes uniforms and standard issue supplies, ballistic resistant body armor and body worn cameras. Ballistic resistant body armor vests bought with TRGP funds must be tested and found to comply with the latest applicable NIJ ballistic standards and appear on the NIJ Compliant Products List.
- Who can apply
- Federally recognized tribes and tribal consortia.
- When
- FY 2026 CTAS is open: Grants.gov deadline October 15, 2026; JustGrants deadline October 22, 2026, 8:59 PM ET.
Pays for armorFederal
Open until Oct 30, 2026
U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance
Law enforcement
One approach the NOFO lists is personnel, tactics, training and equipment to reduce violent crime, explicitly including records systems, vehicles, vests and firearms. Federal body armor conditions (NIJ compliance, mandatory wear certification) are expected to apply to vest purchases but were not quoted from this NOFO.
- Match
- No cost sharing (match) required (FY 2026 NOFO).
- Who can apply
- State, county, city or township and special district governments, and federally recognized tribal governments, serving rural areas; also prosecutors' offices through those governments.
- When
- FY 2026 (O-BJA-2026-172761) posted September 21, 2026: Grants.gov deadline October 30, 2026; JustGrants deadline November 6, 2026.
Pays for armorFederal
Open until Oct 20, 2026
U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs (administered through BJA)
Law enforcementCorrections
Technology and Equipment is a permissible activity, including officer safety and tactical equipment. The NOFO states that recipients funded for body armor (also UAS, body-worn cameras or NIBIN machines) must submit equipment-specific certifications as an award condition.
- Match
- No cost sharing (match) required (FY 2026 NOFO).
- Who can apply
- State, county, city or township, special district and tribal governments with direct criminal justice responsibility that have, or commit to, a 287(g) partnership and participate in Homeland Security Task Force operations or other major DOJ enforcement efforts.
- When
- FY 2026 (O-BJA-2026-172778) posted September 24, 2026: Grants.gov deadline October 20, 2026; JustGrants deadline October 27, 2026. About $25 million, up to $500,000 per award, about 50 awards.
Pays for armorFederal
Last window closed Jun 22, 2026
U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency
FireEMS
Ballistic Protective Equipment (BPE) is an eligible Specialized PPE item at medium priority for fire departments, nonaffiliated EMS organizations, joint/regional applicants and state fire training academies. One BPE set is one vest, one helmet, one triage bag and one pair of goggles. NIJ level requirements for BPE were not found in the FY 2025 NOFO text.
- Match
- Non-federal cash only: 5 percent for jurisdictions of 20,000 residents or fewer; 10 percent for more than 20,000 up to 1 million; 15 percent for more than 1 million. In-kind is not allowed.
- Who can apply
- Fire departments, nonaffiliated EMS organizations and State Fire Training Academies.
- When
- FY 2025 application period ran May 19 to June 22, 2026 (5 PM ET); FY 2025 awards announced by September 30, 2026. Next cycle not yet published.
Pays for armorFederal
U.S. Department of Justice, Criminal Division
Law enforcementCorrections
The joint Justice and Treasury guide (effective March 1, 2024) lists body armor among examples of permissible law enforcement equipment. Shared funds must supplement, not supplant, the agency budget.
- Who can apply
- State, local and tribal law enforcement agencies that participated in a federal forfeiture and are in compliance with program requirements; sharing is discretionary.
- When
- Continuous; tied to forfeitures.
Official program pageGuide to Equitable Sharing for State, Local, and Tribal Law Enforcement Agencies (March 2024) · read Oct 3, 2026 Pays for armorFederal
U.S. Department of the Treasury, Executive Office for Asset Forfeiture
Law enforcement
Governed by the same March 2024 joint guide, which lists body armor among permissible equipment; supplement not supplant applies.
- Who can apply
- State, local and tribal law enforcement agencies that participated in a Treasury forfeiture; sharing is discretionary.
- When
- Continuous; tied to forfeitures.
Pays for armorState · TX
Last window closed Feb 12, 2026
Texas Office of the Governor, Public Safety Office
Law enforcement
Funds body armor compliant with NIJ Standard-0101.06 Type III (rifles) or Type IV (armor piercing rifle): bullet-resistant vests, ballistic plates and plate carriers. Only for peace officers (Art. 2.12, Code of Criminal Procedure) employed by the applicant. Under Gov. Code 772.0075 the agency must first adopt a policy on deployment and use, including mandatory training on care, fitting, inspection, storage and maintenance, and that armor is not left in patrol vehicles off duty. Vests must be personally fitted, including for female officers (ASTM E3003 fitting guidance). PSO weighs number of frontline officers and average cost per vest.
- Match
- None.
- Who can apply
- Texas DPS and units of local government and educational institutions that operate law enforcement agencies (municipalities, counties, ISDs, universities, tribes, community colleges, hospital districts); local agencies apply through their governing body with a resolution and the immigration compliance certification.
- When
- FY2027 cycle: released December 15, 2025; applications due February 12, 2026; projects start on or after September 1, 2026, 12 months max. $3M expected for FY2027 ($10M was expected for FY2026).
Official program pageTexas eGrants FY2027 funding announcement (printed copy in a county agenda packet) · read Oct 3, 2026 Pays for armorState · OH
Ohio Attorney General, funded by the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation
Law enforcementCorrections
Grant money for body armor vests for law enforcement officers of local government (full time, part time and auxiliary, paid or volunteer, including those who supervise sentenced offenders). Applicants attach itemized quotes; priority goes to agencies replacing defective ShotStop vests and to agencies with 50 or fewer sworn officers. NIJ compliance is referenced in program materials.
- Match
- 25 percent local match.
- Who can apply
- Ohio police departments, sheriffs' offices and agencies in good standing with BWC and covered by a BWC state insurance fund policy. State agencies and self-insured departments are not eligible.
- When
- From FY 27, up to $8,000 per agency per year. Applications considered monthly from October 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027 or until funds run out.
Pays for armorState · KY
Kentucky Office of the Attorney General, Department of Criminal Investigations
Law enforcement
Purchases protective equipment for Kentucky Law Enforcement Council certified peace officers: body armor first (soft armor takes precedence), also duty weapons, ammunition, electronic-control devices and body-worn cameras. Armor applications require the agency mandatory wear policy; each armor unit is assigned to the named officer for its 5 year life cycle. Agencies have used it for rifle plates as well.
- Who can apply
- Kentucky law enforcement agencies employing KLEC-certified peace officers.
- When
- Created by HB 6 (2024 session) with $15 million over two years ($5M then $10M), launched July 2024. Current funding status beyond the biennium not confirmed.
Pays for armorState · KY
Kentucky Office of Homeland Security
Law enforcement
Funds body armor, duty weapons, ammunition, electronic-control devices and body-worn cameras for sworn peace officers and service animals. First priority is providing and replacing body armor, second is firearms and ammunition. Body armor must meet or exceed NIJ standards. Reimbursement grant: do not buy before a signed contract is in place; previously purchased equipment is not eligible.
- Who can apply
- City, county, charter county, unified, urban-county and consolidated local government police departments, public university safety and security departments, sheriff's departments, and special law enforcement officers attached to school districts.
- When
- The page shows a yearly timeline (open January 17, close March 31, awards mid May) and states applications are accepted January 15 to March 31; it also carries older text about year-round quarterly review.
Pays for armorState · NJ
New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety, Office of the Attorney General
Law enforcementCorrections
Grants for body armor for eligible officers, designed around a five year replacement cycle. Funded by a $1 fee on motor vehicle and traffic fines and bail forfeitures (N.J.S.A. 52:17B-4.4; N.J.A.C. 13:80A). Every timely applicant gets a $500 base award plus a pro rata share by number of eligible officers. Applicants must have a written mandatory body armor wear policy for uniformed officers in patrol or field operations.
- Match
- No matching funds required.
- Who can apply
- Local (municipal and county) law enforcement and correctional agencies with full-time sworn officers who have arrest powers; also NJ State Police, Division of Criminal Justice, Administrative Office of the Courts, Department of Corrections, State Parole Board and Juvenile Justice Commission.
- When
- Annual online application through njoag.gov; SFY24 window was July 8 to August 30, 2024 (about $2.45M). An SFY26 notice was issued June 2026 (about $3.476M per search summary of the notice).
Official program pageNJ OAG SFY24 Notice of Availability of Funds; SFY26 notice (search summary) · read Oct 3, 2026 Pays for armorState · MD
Maryland Governor's Office of Crime Prevention and Policy
Law enforcement
State-funded reimbursement of 50 percent of the cost of bullet-resistant body armor vests for sworn law enforcement officers (Protective Body Armor Fund, 1995). Program history also covers stab-resistant vests and replacement when testing or age requires it. Awards weigh violent crime, number of sworn officers, officers without armor, and the number and age of vests in use.
- Match
- 50 percent reimbursement; the agency covers the rest.
- Who can apply
- Local law enforcement agencies of any county, incorporated city or town, including Baltimore City. State agencies are not eligible.
- When
- SFY 2027 application deadline was April 17, 2026, 11:59 PM.
Pays for armorState · MN
Minnesota Department of Public Safety
Law enforcementFireEMS
Reimburses up to one half of the purchase price of vests. Eligible items: ballistic panels meeting the current NIJ standard (0101.06) or on the NIJ Compliant Products List at purchase, soft or hard trauma plates and up to two department-authorized carriers. Not eligible: tactical ballistic items, unauthorized carriers, alterations, shipping and sales tax. Officer must have had no compliant panels or panels at least five years old. Maximum reimbursement adjusts each October 1 by CPI ($1,050.64 for purchases on or after October 1, 2025).
- Match
- Up to 50 percent reimbursement.
- Who can apply
- Public safety officers under Minn. Stat. 299A.38: peace officers, firefighters (volunteer, paid on-call, part-time or career) and qualified EMS providers at licensed ambulance services; individuals or agencies may apply.
- When
- Application period July 1 to June 30 for vests bought within the previous 365 days; funds limited, with a waiting list.
Pays for armorState · SC
South Carolina Department of Public Safety, Office of Highway Safety and Justice Programs
Law enforcement
State-appropriated, non-recurring funds pay up to 100 percent of allowable vests, taxes and shipping for vests used in the ordinary course of police duty. Applications may cover vests expiring in the period and anticipated needs such as new hires.
- Match
- None required (up to 100 percent).
- Who can apply
- Local units of government (city, county, town, township or other political subdivision).
- When
- Annual solicitation; the current page covers vest purchases January 1 to December 2025 (2025 solicitation released February 7, 2025, due March 14, 2025).
Pays for armorState · MO
Last window closed Jul 31, 2026
Missouri Department of Public Safety
Law enforcement
Equipment, training and technology, including body armor at any threat level, make or model that complies with the latest NIJ ballistic or stab standards, is uniquely fitted and made in the United States. Agencies buying armor need a written mandatory wear policy for uniformed officers on duty and must send it with the claim. Reimbursement grant.
- Who can apply
- Local law enforcement agencies in communities with a Missouri Blue Shield Program designation. State agencies are not eligible.
- When
- SFY 2027: applications July 1 to July 31, 2026; each eligible applicant receives $28,985.50; performance September 1, 2026 to May 15, 2027.
Pays for armorState · LA
Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement and Administration of Criminal Justice
Law enforcement
Created by Act 739 of 2026 (SB 143, R.S. 40:2405.2). Money may be used solely for financial assistance to eligible agencies to buy bulletproof vests for commissioned peace officers, with priority to agencies that show a lack of adequate vests. The commission must adopt rules on vest standards.
- Who can apply
- Local, municipal or parish law enforcement agencies with 15 or fewer full-time commissioned peace officers.
- When
- New in 2026; funded only by legislative appropriation, donations or grants deposited to the fund. No application cycle published yet.
Pays for armorState · AR
Arkansas Department of Public Safety
Law enforcementCorrections
Created by Act 786 of 2021 for equipment that improves trust between agencies and communities, including bulletproof vests, body and in-car cameras, conducted electrical devices and virtual reality training.
- Who can apply
- Arkansas law enforcement agencies, detention centers and corrections agencies.
- When
- Not funded for Fiscal Year 2026 per the program page; over $15.5 million awarded 2021 to 2025.
Pays for armorNonprofit
K9 Ballistic Vest Donation Program
Law enforcementK9
Reports more than 6,677 K9 vests donated since 2009. Partners with Survival Armor.
- Who can apply
- K9 actively employed in the US by law enforcement or related agencies (no military, search and rescue or private security K9s); certified with current handler; at least 20 months old; no current issued ballistic vest; not retiring within 12 months. Priority: new K9s, then replacement K9s, then replacement of vests over 5 years old. Single purpose narcotics and explosive K9s go on a waiting list.
- When
- Rolling.
- Awards
- In-kind custom fitted K9 vest (5 year manufacturer warranty). Also NARCAN kits and first aid kits (up to 4 per agency).
- How to apply
- The agency (not an individual) completes the online Inquiry Form on the Qualify for a Vest page. Staff review it and contact the applicant within 48 hours to start the formal application.
- EIN
- 27-0872182
Pays for armorNonprofit
Rifle Rated Armor program
Law enforcementFireEMS
Faith-based. Equips first responders with all-day rifle-rated armor (Angel Armor, RISE system), plates and helmets. Not a cash grant: community-funded donations. Site reports over 400 agencies in 32 states. Federal Tax ID shown on site.
- Who can apply
- Typically underfunded police, sheriff, fire and EMS agencies. The department must be ready and able to take an active part in raising the funds for its own armor.
- When
- Rolling.
- How to apply
- Agencies start through the Agencies / New Agency Info pages and work with SHIELD616 staff, including a call with the founder. The agency must name a person to raise local funds from churches, businesses and grant sources, with SHIELD616 providing marketing materials.
- EIN
- 47-4347589
Pays for armorNonprofit · TX
Life-Protecting Equipment
Law enforcement
Has provided ballistic carriers, ballistic shields, trauma kits, rescue boats and armored vehicles. Also supports families of fallen officers and firefighters.
- Who can apply
- Law enforcement agencies in Austin, Brazoria, Brazos, Burleson, Chambers, Colorado, Fayette, Fort Bend, Galveston, Grimes, Harris, Liberty, Madison, Montgomery, San Jacinto, Walker, Waller and Washington counties, Texas.
- Awards
- Over $14.35 million of life-protecting equipment donated over 70 years.
- How to apply
- Contact The 100 Club directly (form on site or (713) 952-0100) to learn the requirements and begin the request process.
- EIN
- 74-1509204
Pays for armorNonprofit · AZ
Safety Enhancement Stipend (SES)
Law enforcementFirePublic safety
Created 2004. Also runs survivor, injury and wellness programs.
- Who can apply
- All city, county, state, federal and tribal public safety agencies in Arizona. Equipment must be agency property and used solely to protect officers or firefighters. Recipients wait one quarter before reapplying.
- When
- Awarded quarterly.
- Awards
- Value and number set by the board. The program provided $428,530.33 in safety equipment in 2022.
- How to apply
- Online application portal, submitted by the department head or designee, with at least two written vendor quotes on letterhead and a current W9.
- EIN
- 23-7172077
Pays for armorNonprofit · RI
Grant Program
Law enforcementFirePublic safety
The application example given is "Providence Police Department, Ballistic Vests".
- Who can apply
- All city, county, state, federal and tribal public safety agencies in Rhode Island. Equipment stays agency property and is used solely to protect officers or firefighters. Recipients wait one quarter before reapplying.
- When
- Awarded quarterly.
- Awards
- Value and number set by the board.
- How to apply
- Online application only (no fax or email), from the department head or designee, with two written vendor quotes on letterhead and a current W9. Requests are due by 5 p.m. on the posted dates.
- EIN
- 23-7179478
Pays for armorNonprofit
K9 Krijger Ballistic Vest Program; K9 Piper Kit Program
Law enforcementK9
Veteran founded. Also funds K9 medical care and free K9 training (Spikes School).
- Who can apply
- Working dog teams in the US, including law enforcement and military working dogs.
- When
- Rolling.
- Awards
- In-kind custom fitted K9 Storm ballistic vests; kits with heat alarms, ear and eye protection and trauma kits.
- How to apply
- Handlers complete the Apply for Assistance application on the Handler Guide page (apply for a vest, a kit, or medical aid).
- EIN
- 47-2144242
Pays for armorNonprofit
K9 Protective Equipment (Request Equipment)
Law enforcementFireK9
All-volunteer. EIN shown on site.
- Who can apply
- Underfunded law enforcement, fire and arson, search and rescue and military K9 units in the US.
- When
- Rolling; site reports more than 400 agencies on the waiting list.
- Awards
- In-kind at no cost: bullet and stab K9 vests (about $1,400 each), first aid kits, NARCAN kits, heat alarms, oxygen mask kits.
- How to apply
- Read the application packet and submit the PPAK9 Equipment Application via the Request Equipment page.
- EIN
- 46-0874586
Pays for armorNonprofit · FL
Law enforcementK9
Site reports 161 vests for 43 agencies in 8 states. EIN shown on site. No formal application published.
- Who can apply
- Law enforcement K9s, mainly in South Florida.
- How to apply
- Contact the organization through its website.
- EIN
- 87-3455134
Pays for armorNonprofit
Request a Vest
Law enforcementK9
Founded 2018 in Ohio; now lists a Bradenton, FL address. Federal Tax ID on site.
- Who can apply
- Police and military working dogs in the US.
- When
- Rolling; vests often funded by per-dog campaigns.
- Awards
- In-kind LOF Defense Systems K9 StreetFighter vest (about $1,200 per campaign goal shown).
- How to apply
- Use the Request a Vest form on the website.
- EIN
- 83-3277164
Pays for armorNonprofit
Request a Vest
FirePublic safety
Serves non-sworn enforcement roles that agencies often do not equip. Individual application.
- Who can apply
- Currently employed code enforcement officers, building inspectors or officials, fire prevention staff, and housing or health inspectors. Priority by threat and financial hardship. New York employees must have armor shipped to a law enforcement agency.
- When
- Rolling; subject to funds.
- Awards
- New Level IIIA+ concealed or external body armor.
- How to apply
- Complete the Request a Vest form with as much detail as possible, after getting agency approval. Report any safety incidents through the online incident report.
- EIN
- 84-4175099
Pays for armorNonprofit
Vest-A-Cop; Bless the Vest; Pennies for Police
Law enforcementFireEMS
Founded by Michael Letts; press says it started in Lexington County, SC. EIN not shown on site; a "Heroes Vest Fund" (Lexington, SC, EIN 27-3473014) may be the legal entity but this is unconfirmed.
- Who can apply
- First responders (police, EMTs, firefighters) nominated through a community sponsor.
- When
- Rolling.
- Awards
- Body armor at no cost to the officer or agency.
- How to apply
- Vest-A-Cop sign-up form: a school, business or group adopts a local first responder and runs a crowdfunding campaign for an active shooter vest. General donations fund vest requests nationwide; contact [email protected].
Conditions applyFederal
Open until Oct 9, 2026
U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance
Law enforcementCorrectionsPublic safety
Ballistic and stab-resistant body armor is an allowable purchase if it complies with the latest applicable NIJ standards, is uniquely fitted and is made in the United States, and the recipient certifies a written mandatory wear policy for uniformed officers. JAG cannot be used as the BVP match, and a local government of 100,000 or more residents that buys armor with JAG may affect its BVP eligibility in the same fiscal year. State Administering Agencies also pass JAG funds to local agencies as equipment subgrants (for example ADECA in Alabama).
- Match
- No match required in the formula program as published by BJA (not restated in the FY 2026 page read).
- Who can apply
- State Administering Agencies (State JAG) and the units of local government and tribes named in each year's Local JAG allocation list.
- When
- FY 2026 Local Formula solicitation (O-BJA-2026-172705) posted August 25, 2026: Grants.gov deadline October 9, 2026; JustGrants deadline October 16, 2026.
Conditions applyFederal
Last window closed Oct 1, 2026
U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services
Law enforcement
Funds law enforcement equipment, technologies and interoperable communications, but only for the projects named in the Congressional Joint Explanatory Statement. Body armor is not named in the FY 2026 resource guide; items not listed are reviewed case by case and must link directly to the project title in the JES. Equipment and products must be made in the United States to the greatest extent practicable.
- Match
- No local match requirement (FY 2026 TEP page).
- Who can apply
- Only state, territorial, local, tribal and other entities designated in the FY 2026 CJS Joint Explanatory Statement; the legal name in SAM must match the JES.
- When
- FY 2026 is noncompetitive and invitational. Grants.gov SF-424 due October 1, 2026; full JustGrants application due October 7, 2026. Up to $401,406,387 available; 24 month awards.
Official program pageCOPS Office TEP page; FY 2026 TEP solicitation and Application Resource Guide · read Oct 3, 2026 Conditions applyFederal
Last window closed Jul 14, 2026
U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance (with ICE)
Corrections
Payments for correctional officer salary costs of incarcerating eligible undocumented criminal aliens. By statute, funds may be used only for correctional purposes; body armor is not named, so corrections protective equipment would have to fit that purpose.
- Who can apply
- States and localities that incurred correctional officer salary costs for eligible inmates.
Conditions applyFederal
Last window closed Jul 24, 2026
U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency
Law enforcementFireEMSPublic safety
Personal body armor is on the FEMA Authorized Equipment List as 01LE-01-ARMR, for use only by specialized teams such as tactical entry or SWAT, to supplement normal stores for the surge capacity needed for CBRNE terrorism response; not for routine use or riot suppression. Routine patrol vests fall outside that scope. At least 35 percent of SHSP/UASI must go to Law Enforcement Terrorism Prevention Activities (LETPA).
- Match
- No cost share stated in the FY 2026 HSGP material read.
- Who can apply
- Only the State Administrative Agency (SAA) applies; it passes funds through to local and tribal governments under the mandatory pass-through rules.
- When
- FY 2026 HSGP: application window June 24 to July 24, 2026; awards no later than September 30, 2026; period of performance September 1, 2026 to August 31, 2029. SHSP total $394,250,000.
Conditions applyFederal
Last window closed Jul 24, 2026
U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency
Law enforcementFireEMSPublic safety
Personal body armor is on the FEMA Authorized Equipment List as 01LE-01-ARMR, for use only by specialized teams such as tactical entry or SWAT, to supplement normal stores for the surge capacity needed for CBRNE terrorism response; not for routine use or riot suppression. Routine patrol vests fall outside that scope. LETPA minimum of 35 percent applies across SHSP and UASI.
- Match
- No cost share stated in the FY 2026 HSGP material read.
- Who can apply
- High-risk urban areas designated by FEMA, through the SAA, which applies on their behalf and makes subawards.
- When
- FY 2026 HSGP: application window June 24 to July 24, 2026. UASI total $584,250,000.
Conditions applyFederal
Last window closed Jul 24, 2026
U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency
Law enforcement
Personal body armor is on the FEMA Authorized Equipment List as 01LE-01-ARMR, for use only by specialized teams such as tactical entry or SWAT, to supplement normal stores for the surge capacity needed for CBRNE terrorism response; not for routine use or riot suppression. Routine patrol vests fall outside that scope. OPSG recipients must also submit a detailed justification to their FEMA program analyst and get approval before buying body armor; requests are reviewed case by case.
- Who can apply
- The SAA applies; subrecipients are local units of government at the county level and federally recognized tribes on or near U.S. land and water borders, working with CBP/U.S. Border Patrol ("friendly forces").
- When
- FY 2026 HSGP: application window June 24 to July 24, 2026. OPSG total $85,500,000.
Conditions applyFederal
Last window closed Jul 24, 2026
U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency
Law enforcementFireEMSPublic safety
Equipment purchases follow the FEMA Authorized Equipment List, where body armor (01LE-01-ARMR) is limited to specialized tactical teams for terrorism response surge capacity. The THSGP fact sheet itself does not discuss armor.
- Who can apply
- Federally recognized tribes that meet the criteria in Section 2001 of the Homeland Security Act (6 U.S.C. 601(4)), or consortia of such tribes.
- When
- FY 2026: $14.25 million, about 20 awards. Applications ran June 24 to July 24, 2026 and are closed.
Conditions applyFederal
Last window closed Jun 22, 2026
U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency
FireEMS
Hiring grants pay salary and benefits only. Recruitment and Retention grants list Personal Protective Equipment for new members as an eligible line item; whether ballistic equipment qualifies as PPE there was not confirmed.
- Match
- Hiring: cost share required (the FY 2025 example is 25 percent in years 1 and 2 and 65 percent in year 3 of the usual position cost). Recruitment and Retention: no cost share.
- Who can apply
- Fire departments and national, state, local or tribal volunteer firefighter interest organizations (R&R).
- When
- FY 2025 application period ran May 19 to June 22, 2026; awards from about September 14, 2026.
Conditions applyFederal
U.S. Army (executive agent) with GSA, DLA and DOJ; run in each state by a governor-appointed State Point of Contact
Law enforcementFireEMSPublic safety
Not a grant: lets state and local governments buy equipment through federal contracts (GSA, DLA) at federal prices, if the equipment is used for counter-drug, homeland security or emergency response activities. Whether a given armor item is in the 1122 catalog depends on the federal schedule.
- Match
- Agency pays the purchase price; the benefit is federal pricing (Colorado cites savings of 6 to 54 percent).
- Who can apply
- State and local government agencies in states with a certified State Point of Contact.
- When
- Continuous.
Official program pageColorado 1122 program page (state point of contact); GSA 1122 page · read Oct 3, 2026 Conditions applyFederal
U.S. General Services Administration
Law enforcementFireEMSPublic safety
Not a grant: state and local governments may buy law enforcement, security and firefighting products (the former Schedule 84 categories) from GSA contracts. Armor availability depends on vendors on the schedule.
- Match
- Agency pays the purchase price.
- Who can apply
- Eligible state and local government entities; no certification required, cite the GSA contract on the order.
- When
- Continuous.
Conditions applyFederal
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Law enforcementFirePublic safety
Under 24 CFR 570.207(b)(1), buying equipment is generally ineligible. Fire protection equipment is treated as part of a public facility and is eligible under 570.201(c). Police body armor is personal property and is generally ineligible, except as part of an eligible public service activity (crime prevention and public safety), which is capped at 15 percent of the grant.
- Who can apply
- Entitlement cities and counties, and states for nonentitlement communities; activities must meet a national objective.
- When
- Annual action plan cycle of each grantee.
Conditions applyState · FL
Florida Department of Law Enforcement
Law enforcement
Under s. 790.065(1)(a)2., F.S., if firearm background check fees exceed expenditures by more than $2.5 million, the excess may be used to buy soft body armor for law enforcement officers. Runs only in years the Legislature appropriates it.
- Who can apply
- Florida law enforcement agencies (per appropriation).
- When
- FDLE posts details on its Open Funding Opportunities page in years with an appropriation; an FY23-24 round existed.
Conditions applyState · TN
Last window closed Oct 24, 2025
Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration, Office of Criminal Justice Programs
Law enforcement
Funds evidence-based programs, specialized units, and new technology and equipment to reduce violent crime. Earlier rounds paid for ballistic vests among other equipment; armor is not named on the program page.
- Who can apply
- FY26 Zip Code Grant: municipal and county law enforcement agencies, including drug task forces, whose jurisdiction contains one of the 50 listed zip codes; agencies must also have a 287(g) agreement and meet solicitation criteria.
- When
- $75 million appropriated in the 2025-26 budget.
Conditions applyState · OK
Oklahoma Office of the Attorney General
Law enforcement
Funds strategies to reduce violent crime such as targeted staffing, technology, analytical capability, community partnerships or victim services (74 O.S. 20k). Body armor is not named.
- Who can apply
- All Oklahoma local law enforcement agencies and sheriff's offices.
- When
- FY 2027 application opened June 1, 2026 and closed July 31, 2026; one year grants through the Oklahoma Grant Exchange.
Conditions applyNonprofit
Safety Grant Program (includes California K9 Safety Grants and New England Safety Grant Initiative)
Law enforcementK9
15 safety categories. California K9 grants have funded K9 ballistic vests, heat alarms and protective eyewear and ear protection. No reporting requirement beyond a photo.
- Who can apply
- Municipal, county and state law enforcement agencies. Fire service agencies are not eligible, except arson investigators recognized as sworn peace officers with arrest authority. Agency must be authorized by its governing authority to receive grants. The California K9 initiative is open to all California law enforcement agencies.
- When
- Annual cycle. 2026 recipients notified by October 1, 2026. Applications received now are considered for the 2027 cycle, with awards announced beginning July 1, 2027. Only selected applicants are contacted.
- Awards
- Mostly in-kind: Spirit of Blue procures and delivers the equipment or training. Most grants are 100% funded with no match. Cash awards are rare.
- How to apply
- Submit the online Grant Application form at spiritofblue.org. Requests stay in an active database and roll over to later cycles. Spirit of Blue also posts open solicitations for donated product, which have a higher approval rate. Questions: [email protected].
- EIN
- 45-2685219
Conditions applyNonprofit
Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation Grant
Law enforcementFireEMSPublic safety
Home page confirms quarterly grants and equipment examples. Portal and FAQ pages are JavaScript only; the $40,000 cap and dates come from Fire Apparatus Magazine. Ballistic vests for police have been funded in the past (e.g., county records), but confirm on the current FAQ.
- Who can apply
- US law enforcement agencies, fire departments, EMS, nonprofit public safety organizations and schools supporting emergency preparedness. After an approved grant, wait at least three years before reapplying.
- When
- Quarterly windows with a cap of 600 US applications per quarter. FY2026 portal openings were Oct 9 2025, Jan 8 2026, Apr 2 2026 and Jul 9 2026 (trade press).
- Awards
- Maximum request $40,000 per quarter (trade press, 2026 cycle). Funds lifesaving equipment such as turnout gear, SCBA, thermal imaging cameras, AEDs, radios and extrication tools.
- How to apply
- Apply through the online grant portal linked from the Apply for a Grant page during a quarterly window. Review the grant FAQs, sample application and checklist first. Canadian applicants use the separate Canadian foundation.
- EIN
- 20-3588745
Conditions applyNonprofit · TX
ArkLaTex 100 Club Grant
Law enforcementFire
Primary mission is support for dependents of fallen first responders; remaining funds go to grants.
- Who can apply
- Law enforcement and fire agencies in Bowie County, TX and Miller County, AR.
- When
- Applications accepted June 15 to July 31 each year.
- Awards
- Bowie and Miller sheriffs and Texarkana AR and TX police may request up to $7,000; other agencies up to $3,000. About $45,000 available per year.
- How to apply
- Apply through the Grants page. Attach a description of the items, proof of competitive pricing, and tie the request to life-saving equipment or training.
- EIN
- 47-5049413
Conditions applyNonprofit · MI
Safety-Equipment Grant Request
Law enforcementFire
News reports show grants for bunker gear and helmets; secondary sources mention bulletproof vests and radios.
- Who can apply
- Police and fire agencies in Genesee, Shiawassee and Lapeer counties, Michigan.
- When
- Annual. The 2026 cycle is closed.
- How to apply
- Equipment Grant Request page on the club website during an open cycle. Contact [email protected].
- EIN
- 38-2091735
Conditions applyNonprofit · TX
First Responder Grant Program
Law enforcementFirePublic safety
Corporate program.
- Who can apply
- Fire departments, police departments and emergency management organizations in communities hosting Motiva facilities (Gulf Coast Texas and terminal communities in other states).
- When
- Annual.
- Awards
- Up to $10,000 for safety equipment, training or safety education. More than $600,000 since 2021.
- How to apply
- By invitation: Motiva invites organizations in host communities to apply.
Conditions applyNonprofit · NJ
First Responders Grant Program
Law enforcementFireEMS
Sister program at Elizabethtown Gas (also SJI) has listed body armor as an eligible purchase in past years.
- Who can apply
- Paid or volunteer fire, EMS and police departments serving at least one municipality in the South Jersey Gas service area (Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland, Salem and parts of Gloucester, Burlington and Camden counties).
- When
- Annual; the 2026 program opened January 22, 2026.
- How to apply
- Review the official rules and municipality list and apply on the South Jersey Gas website when the annual program opens.
Conditions applyNonprofit · WI
Rewarding Responders Grant
Law enforcementFireEMS
Past awards included ballistic shields (company news).
- Who can apply
- County, local and volunteer fire, law enforcement and rescue agencies providing emergency response in the Minnesota Energy Resources service area. 2026 recipients ineligible for 2027. One-time safety projects; equipment must stay with the agency at least five years.
- When
- Apply May 1 to June 15; winners notified by July 31.
- Awards
- Up to $2,000 per project, used within two years.
- How to apply
- Online application with a budget, EIN, organization description and project description.
- EIN
- 39-6075016
Conditions applyNonprofit
Spark Good Local Grants
Law enforcementFirePublic safety
Small local grants; agencies use them for equipment. Max 25 pending or approved applications per organization.
- Who can apply
- 501(c)(3) public charities, schools, faith groups for community projects, and government entities (cities, counties, municipal agencies) requesting funds for public purposes. Must serve the facility service area. Volunteer fire departments organized as non-501(c)(3) charities may be ineligible.
- When
- FY27 cycles: Feb 1 to Apr 15, May 1 to Jul 15, Aug 1 to Nov 30.
- Awards
- $250 to $5,000.
- How to apply
- Create a Spark Good account on Walmart.com/nonprofits, get verified by Deed, then apply to the local store, Sams Club or distribution center serving your area.
Conditions applyNonprofit · GA
APD Officer Support; Technology for Safer Communities
Law enforcement
Funds officer equipment and incentives, LPR and camera technology (Operation Shield) and the public safety training center. No open application for other agencies.
- Who can apply
- Atlanta Police Department.
- EIN
- 11-3655936
Does not pay for armorFederal
Last window closed Jul 23, 2026
U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services
Law enforcement
Pays entry-level salaries and fringe benefits of sworn officers. Equipment, uniforms, weapons and vehicles are unallowable.
- Match
- At least 25 percent local cash match, unless waived (Assistance Listing 16.068).
- Who can apply
- State, local and tribal law enforcement agencies.
- When
- FY 2026 closed: JustGrants deadline July 29, 2026.
Does not pay for armorFederal
Last window closed Jul 30, 2026
U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services
Law enforcement
Funds officer mental health and wellness programs. Body armor is not among the program purposes described by the COPS Office.
- When
- FY 2026 closed: JustGrants deadline August 5, 2026.
Does not pay for armorFederal
Last window closed Aug 17, 2026
U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services
Law enforcement
Funds demonstration or pilot projects in community policing subcategories (for example preventing and investigating domestic terrorism). Buying body armor is not a stated purpose; whether incidental equipment is allowable within a project was not confirmed.
- Who can apply
- Local, state, tribal and territorial law enforcement agencies.
- When
- FY 2026 closed: JustGrants deadline August 24, 2026.
Does not pay for armorFederal
Last window closed Aug 4, 2026
U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services
Law enforcementPublic safety
Funds school security measures (target hardening, coordination with law enforcement, technology for notification of emergencies). Officer body armor is not a program purpose.
- Match
- At least 25 percent local cash match unless a waiver is approved; the match is waived for selected microgrant applicants (up to $100,000).
- Who can apply
- States, units of local government, Indian tribes and their public agencies, including school districts.
- When
- FY 2026 closed: JustGrants deadline August 11, 2026; notifications on or after October 1, 2026.
Does not pay for armorFederal
Last window closed Sep 25, 2026
U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance
Law enforcementCorrections
Funds purchase or lease of body-worn cameras and related deployment, storage and policy work. Not a body armor program; listed as closely related officer technology.
- Match
- 50 percent match based on the federal award (one recipient dollar per federal dollar), cash or in-kind; federal funding cannot exceed $2,000 per camera.
- Who can apply
- Law enforcement agencies, including tribal agencies; publicly funded correctional agencies that perform law enforcement functions. BJA also offers microgrants to small, rural and tribal agencies.
- When
- FY 2026 (O-BJA-2026-172677): Grants.gov deadline September 25, 2026; JustGrants deadline October 2, 2026 (now closed).
Does not pay for armorFederal
Open until Oct 30, 2026
U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance
Law enforcementPublic safety
Funds training, threat assessment teams and anonymous reporting technology. The NOFO lists target hardening equipment and armed security personnel as unallowable and points to COPS SVPP and CHP instead.
- Match
- No cost sharing (match) required (FY 2026 NOFO).
- When
- FY 2026 (O-BJA-2026-172709): Grants.gov deadline October 30, 2026; JustGrants deadline November 6, 2026.
Does not pay for armorFederal
U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance
Law enforcement
Supports data-driven, evidence-based crime reduction strategies with research partners. Not an equipment program.
- Who can apply
- State and local law enforcement agencies with research partners.
- When
- No FY 2026 solicitation appeared on the BJA current funding list read on 2026-10-03.
Does not pay for armorFederal
Last window closed Jul 8, 2026
U.S. Department of Justice, Office for Victims of Crime
Public safety
Funds victim services and victim compensation from the Crime Victims Fund. Not available for law enforcement equipment or body armor.
- Who can apply
- State VOCA administrators, which subgrant to victim service providers.
Does not pay for armorFederal
U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, National Institute of Justice
Law enforcementCorrections
Funds research (including body armor standards and testing research), not equipment purchases by agencies. NIJ also runs the Compliance Testing Program and Compliant Products List that other programs rely on.
- Who can apply
- Researchers, universities, nonprofits and government research partners.
Does not pay for armorFederal
Last window closed Jul 24, 2026
U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency
Public safety
Not for public agencies. Funds physical security for nonprofit facilities at risk of terrorist or extremist attack. Equipment is limited to a select list of AEL items (alerting, communications, blast resistant and physical security items); body armor (01LE) is not on the FY 2026 NSGP list.
- Who can apply
- 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations as subapplicants through their SAA; SAAs are the only applicants to FEMA.
- When
- FY 2026: application window June 24 to July 24, 2026.
Does not pay for armorFederal
Last window closed Jun 22, 2026
U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency
Fire
Funds community fire prevention programs and research on firefighter safety, health and wellness. Not an equipment purchase program for responder PPE or armor.
- Match
- At least 5 percent non-federal cost share (15 U.S.C. 2229(k)(2)).
- Who can apply
- FP&S Activity: fire departments and recognized fire prevention organizations. R&D Activity: academic, research, public safety and public health institutions (fire departments are not eligible for R&D).
- When
- FY 2025: $32.4 million, about 100 awards; application period aligned with AFG in May and June 2026.
Does not pay for armorNonprofit
Jeremiah Lucey Grant Program
Fire
Funds training, equipment and technology. Contact [email protected].
- Who can apply
- Paid and volunteer fire departments in the US. No grants to individuals.
- When
- Annual. LOI portal opened May 1, 2026; LOIs due August 15, 2026.
- Awards
- Typically $5,000 to $25,000; occasionally larger.
- How to apply
- Complete the Letter of Inquiry form and upload a brief LOI in the grants portal. Include department details, type and estimated value of the request, how it will be used, and steps already taken. Invited departments then submit a full application.
- EIN
- 13-4125074
Does not pay for armorNonprofit
MSA's Globe Gear Giveaway
Fire
Sponsored by MSA Safety and DuPont Nomex and Kevlar.
- Who can apply
- Over 50% volunteer departments serving 25,000 people or fewer in the US or Canada, legally organized under state or province law (tribal entities eligible), with at least one active NVFC member. Must show need. Winners from the past two years are ineligible.
- When
- Annual. The 2026 application period is closed; winners announced July to December.
- Awards
- 2026: 13 departments each receive four sets of Globe turnout gear and four MSA Cairns helmets.
- How to apply
- Apply online through the NVFC program page during the annual window. One application per department. NVFC also lists other giveaways on its Special Opportunities page (for example Ricochet wildland gear, deadline Sept 30, 2026).
- EIN
- 39-1274172
Does not pay for armorNonprofit
Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program
Fire
Funded by State Farm, run by NVFC. EIN null because the funder is a corporation; NVFC EIN is 39-1274172.
- Who can apply
- US departments over 50% volunteer (paid on-call counts), serving 25,000 or fewer, legally organized under state law, with last fiscal year revenue of $250,000 or less. Must use funds for eligible equipment and report back within four months. Previous recipients are ineligible.
- When
- Annual. The 2026 window was May 4 to May 7, 2026 and is closed.
- Awards
- $10,000 grants; 150 departments in 2026 ($1.5 million).
- How to apply
- Online application on the NVFC program page during a short annual window. One application per department.
Does not pay for armorNonprofit
Annual Grant Cycle (First Responder Programming)
Law enforcementFireEMSPublic safety
Not an equipment funder for agencies. Useful for nonprofits running wellness or training for first responders.
- Who can apply
- Programs, not equipment: first responder mental wellness and stress management training, scholarships for families of fallen first responders, school safety preparedness and leadership development. Secondary sources say applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations or NCES schools.
- When
- 2026 cycle closed (awards announced in August). 2027 cycle opens late November 2026.
- Awards
- $10 million to more than 170 grant partners in 2025.
- How to apply
- Online application during the annual cycle. Review the Grant Priorities and Grant FAQs documents and join the mailing list.
- EIN
- 36-6109323
Does not pay for armorNonprofit · SD
Funds for Firefighters
Fire
Official page confirms program and 2026 totals; cap and deadline from local news.
- Who can apply
- Volunteer fire departments serving Black Hills Energy communities. Firefighting equipment and safety gear only; no operating expenses (per local press).
- When
- Annual spring window; 2026 deadline was April 10, 2026 (local press).
- Awards
- Up to $2,500 per grant (local press). 2026: $165,000 in 72 grants across seven states.
- How to apply
- Online application with the department W-9 via blackhillsenergy.com/firefighters during the spring window.
- EIN
- 75-2986866
Does not pay for armorNonprofit
K9 purchase, training and medical grants
Law enforcementK9
Funds K9 purchase, initial training and active and retired K9 medical care. Not a vest program.
- Who can apply
- Law enforcement agencies.
- How to apply
- Contact the foundation through its contact page; no online application is published.
- EIN
- 77-0496014
Does not pay for armorNonprofit · NY
Law enforcementK9
Funds NYPD programs and technology. No open application for other agencies.
- Who can apply
- NYPD.
- EIN
- 13-2711338
Does not pay for armorNonprofit
Law enforcement
No equipment grants. Counseling, peer support, scholarships, camps and training.
- Who can apply
- Families and co-workers of officers killed in the line of duty; agencies for line-of-duty response training.
- EIN
- 52-1354370
Does not pay for armorNonprofit
Fire
No equipment grants. Survivor support, behavioral health and line-of-duty death prevention.
- Who can apply
- Families of fallen firefighters and fire departments (programs and training).
- EIN
- 52-1832634
Does not pay for armorNonprofit
Fallen First Responder Home Program
Law enforcementFireEMS
No equipment grants.
- Who can apply
- Families of first responders killed in the line of duty (mortgage payoff); also catastrophically injured responders (Smart Homes).
- EIN
- 02-0554654
Does not pay for armorNonprofit
Law enforcement
Formerly the National Police Foundation. Research, training and technical assistance; no equipment grants.
- EIN
- 52-0906599
This is a reference compiled from public program documents, not legal or grant advice. The program’s own solicitation and guidance are the record.
