Technology and Security Grants for Nonprofits: Where to Look and How to Get Started

Quick Overview: Nonprofits may be able to use grants and other funding opportunities to help cover technology and security improvements. This article covers the types of projects that may qualify, examples of available funding, and where nonprofits can look for opportunities through federal and state programs, foundations, and corporate giving programs.

Can nonprofits get grants for technology upgrades?

Yes. Nonprofits may qualify for grants and other funding opportunities to support technology upgrades. Eligibility depends on the project and the requirements of the specific funding program.

Technology funding does not always appear under a program labeled a “nonprofit technology grant.”

Depending on the organization and funding source, technology may fall within broader initiatives involving capacity building, community services, modernization, cybersecurity, infrastructure, resiliency, or operational improvements.

That is one reason nonprofits shouldn't limit their research to grants that have the word technology in their name.

What kinds of technology projects may receive grant funding?

Depending on the specific funding opportunity, nonprofits may want to investigate whether funding can support projects involving:

• Computers and employee devices
• Network infrastructure and Wi-Fi
• Cloud technology
• Cybersecurity improvements
• Cybersecurity assessments
• Data backup and disaster recovery
• Document and records management
• Digital workflows
• Communications technology
• Technology modernization
• Technology assessments or consulting

Not every grant will cover the same technology projects or expenses. Before looking for funding, it helps to understand what your organization actually needs to improve.

For example, you may know that staff rely too heavily on paper records, or outdated systems without knowing what should replace them. An assessment of your environment with a qualified Managed Service Provider can help identify those gaps and define the technology improvements your organization needs.

With a clearer project in mind, you can look for funding opportunities that align with that specific need.

Can nonprofits get grants for security equipment?

Yes. Certain grant programs can provide eligible nonprofits with funding for physical security improvements. Depending on the program, funding may support security equipment, facility improvements, assessments, or related protective measures.

Potential opportunities can relate to:

• Security cameras
• Video surveillance
• Access control
• Entry security
• Alarm and notification systems
• Facility-hardening improvements
• Cybersecurity
• Security training
• Other protective measures

One example is New Hampshire’s SAFE Grant, a state-funded program that provides up to $150,000 for K–12 school safety and security improvements.

Where can nonprofits look for technology and security grants?

Nonprofits can look for technology and security funding through federal and state grant programs, community and private foundations, and corporate giving programs. Funding may not always be labeled specifically for “technology” or “security,” so broader opportunities related to infrastructure, capacity building, cybersecurity, preparedness, or your nonprofit’s mission may also be relevant.

Here are some of the places where nonprofits may encounter relevant opportunities.

Federal grant programs

Federal funding is one potential source for nonprofit projects, although eligibility varies by program.

Grants.gov is the federal government's central resource for finding grant opportunities. Nonprofits are among the organization types that may be eligible, but each funding opportunity has its own requirements.

The site's filters can help narrow opportunities by eligibility, category, agency, and other criteria, making it easier to focus on grants that may be relevant to your organization.

When searching, don't limit yourself to grants with “technology” or “security” in the title. Depending on your project, relevant funding may fall under cybersecurity, infrastructure, preparedness, resilience, community services, or programs related to your nonprofit's mission.

State and local funding opportunities

State grant programs can be another source of funding for nonprofit technology and security projects, but opportunities vary by state.

A simple search for “[your state] grants” can help you find your state’s official grant website or funding portal. You can also look at state agencies focused on public safety, homeland security, emergency management, technology, economic development, or community development.

State agencies can also play a role in federal funding. For example, nonprofits applying for the FEMA Nonprofit Security Grant Program submit through their State Administrative Agency rather than directly to FEMA. State-specific requirements may also apply.

Community and private foundations

Nonprofits may also find funding through community and private foundations. These are organizations that provide grants to nonprofits for specific causes, communities, or organizational needs.

A good place to look is within your own community. Search for “[your city or county] community foundation” or look for foundations that support your nonprofit’s particular mission. You can also review organizations you already receive funding from to see whether they offer grants for capacity building, technology, safety, or operational improvements.

Foundation grants can also give nonprofits an opportunity to propose their own project. If a foundation accepts proposals within an area that aligns with your needs, you may be able to explain the problem, propose a technology or security project, outline the cost, and request funding for it.

Corporate and nonprofit technology programs

Corporate giving programs can provide nonprofits with funding, donated products, or discounted services that may help reduce the cost of technology and other organizational needs.

For technology projects, in-kind donations can be especially relevant. Instead of providing cash, a company may donate products or services, such as computers, software, technology services, or professional expertise.

Other programs, such as matching gifts and volunteer grants, provide additional ways for companies to financially support nonprofits based on their employees' donations or volunteer involvement.

When looking for these opportunities, consider companies your organization already has a connection with, as well as technology providers and businesses in your community.

Should nonprofits wait for a grant before planning technology or security improvements?

No. Grant availability can change, but understanding your organization's technology and security priorities is valuable regardless of how the project is eventually funded.

A project also should not be built around a grant simply because funding happens to be available.

Instead, nonprofits can have a general understanding of the technology and security improvements that would benefit their organizations. When an appropriate opportunity appears, they can then determine whether their needs align with the program's purpose and eligibility requirements.

This distinction matters because federal funding opportunities can have very specific requirements. Grants.gov advises applicants to review each opportunity's eligibility requirements before investing time and resources into an application

Not Sure What Your Nonprofit Needs?

Usherwood works with organizations to evaluate their technology, cybersecurity, communications, print, and physical security environments, identify potential gaps, and determine where improvements may be worth considering.

Whether a future project is supported through grant funding or another source, understanding what you need and why you need it gives your organization a better place to start.