FY 2024 AFG Program: The Application Process

Securing funding under FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program involves a structured and competitive application process. Applicants must demonstrate a clear need for funding and articulate how the grant will enhance their ability to protect lives and property. Below is a step-by-step guide to the process, including essential forms, templates, and guidelines.

1. Confirming Eligibility

Before beginning the application, ensure your organization qualifies under the program’s eligibility criteria. Eligible applicants include:

• Fire departments (career, volunteer, or combination).
• Non-affiliated emergency medical service (EMS) organizations.
• State fire training academies.

Review FEMA’s Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for specific details on eligibility requirements. View the FY 2024 NOFO here.

2. Gathering Required Information

Successful applications require detailed data and documentation, including:

• Organizational demographics and population served.
• Financial information, including budgets and cost-share contributions.
• Detailed descriptions of the project or program for which funding is requested.
• Supporting documentation, such as risk assessments or incident reports.

3. Using FEMA’s Application Checklist

To ensure you’ve covered all necessary steps, refer to the FEMA AFG Application Checklist. This checklist outlines all required documentation and the sequence of steps for submission.

4. Completing the Application in FEMA GO

All applications are submitted through FEMA’s Grants Outcomes (FEMA GO) online system. Follow these steps:

1. Create an Account:
   Visit the FEMA GO Portal and register an account if you don’t already have one.
2. Log In and Select the AFG Application:
   Once logged in, navigate to the AFG application portal for FY 2024.
3. Complete the Application Sections:
   • Applicant Information: Input organizational details and points of contact.
   • Budget Information: Specify the total project cost and cost-share amount.
   • Project Narrative: Provide a comprehensive narrative detailing the project’s purpose, need, and expected outcomes. Use FEMA’s Narrative Development Toolkit for guidance.
   • Supporting Documents: Upload any required documentation, such as self-evaluation sheets or budget breakdowns.
4. Validate and Submit:
   Use the system’s validation tools to check for missing fields or errors. Submit the application once complete.

5. Key Templates and Tools

• Cost Share Calculator:
  Determine the financial contribution your organization must make. Access the Cost Share Calculator.
• Self-Evaluation Sheets:
  Evaluate your organization’s readiness and needs using FEMA’s:
  • Operations and Safety Self-Evaluation Sheet.
  • Vehicle Acquisition Self-Evaluation Sheet.

6. Meeting Deadlines

Applications for the FY 2024 AFG program are due by December 20, 2024. FEMA strongly advises applicants to submit early to avoid technical issues and to allow time for corrections if needed.

7. Post-Submission Steps

After submission, FEMA evaluates applications based on criteria such as:

• Community need.
• Alignment with program priorities.
• Feasibility and cost-effectiveness of the proposed project.

Award notifications are typically issued several months after the deadline.