Local governments wrapped Q2 facing an increasingly complex funding landscape. Federal dollars are still available, but instability and shifting priorities in Washington have agencies on edge. This uncertainty has driven a noticeable shift: departments are proactively securing funding earlier and diversifying their approach to include state, regional, and alternative sources.
At Navigator, we’ve worked closely with thousands of fire, police, 911, and K-12 departments nationwide. Across the board, we’ve observed local leaders becoming more strategic and collaborative, seeking guidance on how to navigate this new funding reality.
In this NavLetter, we’ll recap the major funding developments from Q2, share insights from Navigator’s own platform data, and highlight key federal grants, FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG), DOJ’s Justice Assistance Grant (JAG), and DHS’s State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) and Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI), that should be on your radar. As always, our goal is to give you a clear view of the funding landscape and practical advice to secure your department’s top projects.
Let’s follow the money…
Q2 2025: Quarter in Review
Federal Funding Environment: Stability Concerns Remain
The federal funding landscape continued to shift in Q2. The administration maintained scrutiny of discretionary grants, reinforcing its focus on public safety, law enforcement, and border security. This shift has created both winners and losers in the grant ecosystem, with climate and equity-focused initiatives experiencing significant reductions.
Major Federal Grants: SAFER & COPS Draw Huge Demand
The COPS Hiring Program and SAFER grants dominated local government attention, with both programs experiencing record-setting application volume. Departments are clearly prioritizing personnel funding, responding to budget pressures by securing funds that directly sustain staffing. While these windows recently closed, we anticipate major funding announcements from both programs late Q3 or early Q4.
DOJ Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Applications Opened
The Department of Justice’s Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) opened in Q2, offering valuable, flexible funding for technology upgrades, equipment, training, and community safety programs. Navigator saw heavy engagement from departments eager to secure these critical funds. Application deadlines vary significantly by state and jurisdiction, so we strongly encourage departments to confirm their specific state and local timelines promptly.
Navigator Insights: Top 3 Data Takeaways from Q2
We closely analyzed activity from over 2,000 departments on our platform during Q2. Here’s what we found:
1. Personnel Funding is the Top Priority.
Concerned about shifting federal priorities, departments rushed to secure long-term staffing dollars through SAFER and COPS programs. Navigator platform activity around personnel grants spiked dramatically (+44% from Q1), highlighting widespread concern about budget stability.
– SAFER searches and application activity increased 44%.
– COPS interest surged nearly 37%.
Our Advice: Even if you missed this cycle, start your preparation now for 2026. Personnel funding remains critical, and competition isn’t going away.
2. Departments are Accelerating Timelines & Streamlining Projects.
Facing uncertainty, agencies are shortening project timelines and prioritizing fast-to-implement, essential projects. About 75% of all projects in Q2 aimed to complete within six months, significantly faster than last year.
– 85% of projects targeted equipment purchases (vehicles, communications gear, PPE).
– Smaller projects (under $100K) accounted for 70% of plans, reflecting tight budgets and urgency.
Our Advice: Clearly define immediate impacts and rapid outcomes in your upcoming grant applications. Grantmakers value quick wins more than ever.
3. Departments are Turning to State and Alternative Funding Sources.
Federal instability pushed many agencies toward state and non-traditional grants. Navigator saw substantial increases in searches for state-run grants, private foundations, and regional partnership funding.
– State funding searches rose approximately 32%.
– Interest in private foundation funding grew about 24%.
– Formation of regional partnerships increased around 15%.
Our Advice: Diversify your funding strategy, don’t rely solely on federal dollars. Regional collaborations can significantly strengthen your proposals.
What to Watch: Actionable Insights for Q3-Q4 2025
Looking ahead, three critical federal grant programs deserve your immediate attention: FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG), DOJ Justice Assistance Grant (JAG), and DHS State Homeland Security Program (SHSP)/Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI).
FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG)
The AFG program remains highly competitive. Last cycle, FEMA received nearly $4 billion in requests for less than $400 million in available funds.
– Timeline: NOFO expected in early fall.
– Key Insight: This year, we believe successful applications will clearly link requested equipment to firefighter safety, community outcomes, and operational efficiency.
Take Action: Don’t wait. We expect to hit our application capacity faster than ever this year. Let us know as soon as possible if you’d like to submit an application. Start your AFG application here → https://fundingnav.org/afg/
DOJ Justice Assistance Grant (JAG)
The Edward Byrne Memorial JAG program is ideal for law enforcement, community corrections, and court systems. Projects typically funded include technology upgrades, officer safety gear, training programs, and community-focused safety initiatives.
– Timeline: Deadlines vary significantly based on state and local jurisdiction. Many are approaching quickly in Q3.
– Key Insight: Clearly articulate measurable outcomes (crime reduction, improved community relationships, or operational efficiency).
Take Action: Navigator’s experienced team can help craft a competitive DOJ JAG application tailored specifically for your jurisdiction’s timeline and requirements. Get your DOJ JAG proposal started → https://fundingnav.org/jag/
DHS State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) & Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI)
These DHS programs support terrorism prevention, cybersecurity, and emergency response initiatives. Regional and multi-jurisdictional projects fare best.
– Timeline: Expected NOFO late summer/early fall.
– Key Insight: Build regional partnerships early. Demonstrating broad collaboration is essential.
Take Action: Navigator can help you align your project with DHS priorities, craft regional partnerships, and submit a winning proposal. Plan your SHSP/UASI application → https://fundingnav.org/shsp/
Final Thoughts from our Team
From our conversations this quarter, one thing is clear: local departments are committed, capable, and ready to move, but securing funding demands smarter, earlier, and more strategic planning. Whether your team is targeting federal grants like FEMA’s AFG, DOJ’s JAG, or DHS’s SHSP/UASI, or pivoting to state and regional sources, the key is readiness.
Our entire team at Navigator is here not just to help you apply, but to ensure you secure real outcomes. Please reach out directly if you need support or simply want to discuss your strategy. Let’s make sure your critical projects get funded.
Thanks for reading, and good luck with your funding efforts.
Bryce Stirton
CEO, Navigator
Email Bryce → [email protected]
