Over the past few months, several federal sources have either suspended or halted their grant programs. These actions are currently under review as part of broader Executive Branch policy decisions, including potential staffing reductions and program eliminations. While the final outcomes remain uncertain, we will continue to support schools interested in pursuing grant opportunities.
We recognize the difficulties everyone faces in making accurate forecasts during such unpredictable times. However, we are committed to keeping grant assistance available as a strategic option. By continuing to plan and prepare, we ensure that if funding streams reopen, schools are ready to act. We will keep all stakeholders informed as federal policy reviews and organizational changes unfold. I remain hopeful that we will see progress in the available grant areas in the coming months.
Federal Grant Highlights: April 2025
FEMA Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP)
Purpose: Supports safety and security initiatives for nonprofit schools
Funding: Up to $200,000 per building (limit of 3 buildings)
Deadline: Varies by state—applications due April 2025, except for Texas (pending update)
Status: The 2025 NSGP, along with remaining 2024 awards, is currently suspended. FEMA is undergoing reorganization and timelines for reinstatement are unclear.
This grant has historically funded equipment, training and services related to school safety, making it a valuable opportunity when available.
Developments from DOJ, BJA, OJP and COPS
Most major grants from these agencies have been delayed or postponed. The only exception currently is the COPS School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP), which has not been cancelled or officially delayed. Updates are expected within the next few weeks. No definitive announcements have been made, so we remain cautiously optimistic.
State-Level School Safety Funding
A comprehensive review of state-level school safety grants is underway. Many states are delaying their funding forecasts, largely due to instability at the federal level. Much of this funding originates from federal allocations—many of which are still under review or temporarily suspended.
Forecasting for 2026 is also being evaluated, with an emphasis on identifying which state programs are likely to remain viable despite ongoing shifts in federal policy.
Department of Education (DOE) Reorganization
The DOE has suspended several of its grant initiatives and is working to define a new organizational structure. This has raised concerns about how Title I and other key education grants will be managed moving forward. Districts and state agencies are currently trying to estimate budgets for July, but no definitive funding guidance has been issued.
Many Boxlight solutions align with the goals of active and historical grant programs, including:
- DOJ School Violence Prevention
- NSF and DOD education grants
- FEMA Nonprofit School Safety Programs
Products such as warning screens, audio systems and emergency alert solutions are often eligible under these categories, making them strong candidates for grant funding when opportunities reopen.
The Grant Assistance Program (GAP) is designed to support schools throughout the grant lifecycle. That includes:
- Identifying goals and needs
- Researching matching funding sources
- Developing project estimates aligned to grant criteria
- Assisting with applications, including abstracts and documentation
- Supporting onboarding and compliance post-award
By planning proactively—even during a temporary pause—schools can be ready to respond quickly and confidently once grant cycles resume.
Despite the uncertainty, the importance of grant funding has not diminished. For many schools, grants are the key to implementing critical safety and instructional upgrades when traditional funding isn’t available.
We encourage education leaders to stay engaged, keep asking questions and continue planning. The groundwork laid now can ensure faster, smoother access to funding when programs return. We will continue to provide updates and guidance as the grant environment evolves.
