Strategic investment of federal Homeland Security Grant Program funds to local law enforcement, emergency managers, firefighters, and other terrorism prevention and response agencies at the state level have resulted in better preparedness, increased capabilities, and improved response capacity that would not otherwise have been possible.
All Homeland Security funds are spent in accordance with the State Homeland Security Strategy. The State Homeland Security Council, of which DMA/WEM is a member, identifies gaps in the state’s protection and sets statewide priorities in the State Homeland Security Strategy. DMA/WEM investment of Homeland Security funding is directly tied to priorities and needs identified in the state strategy and to capability gaps identified in the Threat and Hazard Identification Report (THIRA) and State Preparedness Report (SPR).
Wisconsin’s grant funding strategy uses a disciplined, focused approach that prioritizes building regional and statewide capabilities to help communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from catastrophic events (including terrorist attacks and major disasters) that would otherwise overwhelm local emergency response. The emphasis on collaboration and focus on building shared resources and capacity has made these initiatives extremely cost-effective.
Deciding where to invest state Homeland Security dollars is a collaborative effort. Local fire and law enforcement agencies, emergency managers, tribal public safety, state agencies, non-profit organizations, and representatives from the private sector all advise DMA/WEM on needs and priorities through the Homeland Security Funding Advisory Work Group.Currently funds are being administered for FY19, FY20, and FY21. As part of the federal grant application process, after the application is submitted we post the final version of the HSGP Investment Budget and the Homeland Security Grant Funding Opportunities.
This process provides transparency to our stakeholders and potential sub-recipients.
See the Available Grants page for current grant opportunities.
Questions or comments may be submitted to: caitlin.snyderworth@widma.gov
