The New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness has opened applications today for the New Jersey Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which offers state security grants aimed at helping nonprofit organizations strengthen protections against potential terrorist threats.

Eligible nonprofit organizations may apply for funding from from one of two programs starting today, now through 11:59 p.m. on September 11.

The competitive program offers two types of grants. The Security Personnel program provides up to $20,000 to help organizations hire additional active law enforcement officers or registered security officers, while the Target Hardening Equipment program offers up to $100,000 for approved security improvements such as cameras, access controls, fencing and other physical security enhancements.

Shlomo Schorr, director of legislative affairs for Agudath Israel of America’s New Jersey Office, welcomed the opening of the application period, saying the grants have become an important resource for faith-based and other nonprofit organizations facing heightened security concerns.

“We are grateful that the NSGP application process is now open and that this vital program was prioritized by Governor Mikie Sherrill in her Fiscal Year 2027 budget,” Shlomo Schorr, Legislative Director of Agudath Israel of America’s New Jersey office, stated to TLS.

“At a time when nonprofit institutions are confronting heightened threats, these grants play an essential role in safeguarding our shuls, schools, and other community organizations. Security at our institutions is not optional — it is a necessity.”

The state program is separate from the federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Organizations may be eligible to apply for both programs, although each has its own funding priorities, eligibility requirements and application process.

To qualify, organizations must submit a completed application, a current vulnerability risk assessment identifying security weaknesses at their facilities, and documentation of their tax-exempt status, where applicable. The vulnerability assessment must include current photographs of the property and the locations where security improvements are proposed.

Since the program began, the state has awarded more than $38 million to more than 700 nonprofit organizations statewide. More than 500 organizations have applied during each of the past several grant cycles, reflecting growing demand for security funding.

Eligible organizations may apply for both grant categories each year, but may receive funding from only one state program per fiscal year. Preference will be given to applicants that have not received a federal or state target hardening grant during the previous two grant cycles.

Applications will be reviewed by a panel of security experts, which will evaluate each proposal based on the applicant’s demonstrated threat level, identified vulnerabilities and the potential consequences of a terrorist attack.