By Bill DeMars, Executive Director, NPPGov

Each year, fire departments across the country rely on federal grant programs to secure funding for critical equipment, apparatus, training, and personnel. With municipal budgets stretched thin, these grants provide a vital lifeline. However, the grant process and ensuring funds are used efficiently can be complex. Cooperative purchasing organizations, like NPPGov, offer solutions to help departments maximize their grant dollars while streamlining procurement.

Federal grant funding for fire and emergency services remains a key priority. Programs such as the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG), Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER), and the Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) Grant collectively distribute over $700 million annually to fire departments nationwide. In FY 2023, the AFG alone awarded approximately $324 million to departments in need of new equipment, vehicles, and training programs.

According to FEMA, over 2,000 fire departments receive AFG funding each year, yet demand still far exceeds availability. In recent years, nearly 8,000 departments have applied annually, leading to a competitive selection process. With an increased focus on interoperability, firefighter health and safety, and rapid response readiness—securing these funds has never been more critical.

Applying for federal grants requires strategic planning and expertise. Successful applications typically include:

• A well-defined needs assessment
• Justification of equipment or staffing requirements
• Demonstrated financial need
• A clear link to enhanced public safety outcomes

Departments should engage with grant-writing professionals or utilize internal resources to craft compelling applications. FEMA also offers resources, including webinars and technical assistance, to help departments strengthen their grant proposals.

Once awarded, departments must allocate grant funds efficiently to ensure compliance with federal purchasing guidelines while maximizing the value of every dollar. This is where cooperative purchasing organizations prove invaluable.

• Pre-vetted contracts: Grant-funded purchases often require a competitive bidding process. Cooperative contracts are already competitively solicited, ensuring compliance with federal and state procurement regulations.
• Cost savings: Leveraging group purchasing power enables departments to secure better pricing on essential equipment and services.
• Faster procurement: Time-sensitive purchases—especially for PPE, communications equipment, and vehicles—can be expedited through cooperative contracts.
• Reduced administrative burden: Fire departments save time and resources by utilizing pre-negotiated contracts rather than conducting lengthy bid processes.

NPPGov has a long-standing partnership with the IAFC, working collaboratively to support fire departments through our extensive portfolio of cooperative contracts. This relationship ensures IAFC members have access to pre-vetted, cost-effective procurement solutions that align with their operational needs. Additionally, NPPGov provides financial support to the IAFC, reinforcing our shared commitment to advancing the fire service. Through this partnership, IAFC members benefit from streamlined purchasing, compliance with grant regulations, and the ability to stretch their funding further, ultimately enhancing their ability to serve and protect their communities.

Federal agencies require grant recipients to adhere to specific procurement regulations, such as the Uniform Guidance (2 CFR Part 200). Cooperative purchasing agreements are structured to comply with these requirements, making them a valuable tool for grant-funded acquisitions.

Fire departments that integrate cooperative purchasing into their grant strategy can stretch their dollars further, acquire mission-critical resources faster, frequently securing more favorable terms and ensure compliance with funding guidelines. With billions in federal grant funding available annually, utilizing all available tools—including cooperative contracts—ensures departments are equipped to protect their communities effectively.

Navigating the federal grant landscape can be daunting, but with the right approach and procurement strategies, fire departments can maximize every dollar awarded. Cooperative purchasing organizations like NPPGov provide a streamlined, compliant, and cost-effective way to procure grant-funded equipment and services, ensuring that departments make the most of their hard-earned grant funding.

For more information on how cooperative purchasing can support your grant-funded projects, browse our website or contact our team for personalized assistance.