3 common misconceptions about AFG and SAFER grants

From application difficulty to funding competition, many barriers are more perception than reality

May 26, 2026 06:44 PM •

Applying for AFG and SAFER grants can feel intimidating, especially for department leaders who assume there will be many barriers to eligibility or completion. The reality is that many of these concerns are likely based on misconceptions — so let’s dispel some myths today.

Size doesn’t matter: The first thing I want departments to understand is this: You are competing against organizations your own size. Smaller departments are not battling large metro agencies for the same funding pool. There are allocated dollars for departments of different sizes, so whether you’re a volunteer agency, combination department or large career organization, you have an opportunity to compete fairly. Don’t count yourself out before you even apply.
The process is simple: Second, the process is more manageable than many people think. The applications are online and relatively straightforward. Most records management systems can generate the data sheets needed for AFG and SAFER applications, including call volume information and operational statistics. That means a lot of the heavy lifting may already be sitting in your system waiting to be used.
NOFO helps: FEMA and the AFG program are very clear about what they are looking for in competitive applications, so use the NOFO to your advantage. The guidance is there for a reason. Departments that take the time to align their narrative and request with the priorities outlined in the NOFO put themselves in a much stronger position for success.

Grants are never guaranteed, and no department wants to become overly dependent on them. But these programs continue to play a critical role in helping agencies improve staffing, equipment and service delivery for their communities. If you’ve been hesitating, now is the time to move forward and submit your application.

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GrantFinder Staff

Note: If you are in need of additional support and guidance, contact the GrantFinder team for grant writing help today.

Fire Chief FireRescue1 Grants Leadership Legislation and Funding

Fire Chief Jason Caughey, EFO, CFO

Chief Jason Caughey is a member of the FireRescue1 Editorial Advisory Board, serving as a senior fire advisor. He has been in the fire service for more than 20 years, serving in many capacities, including state trainer, volunteer firefighter, fire captain and volunteer fire chief. Caughey currently serves as fire chief of the Laramie County Fire Authority (LCFA) in Cheyenne, Wyoming. LCFA is a combination fire department with 100 members, 9 full-time members, 12 resident firefighters and 100 volunteer members protecting 25,000 citizens in Laramie County. Through eight strategically placed stations, the district covers and protects 1,150 square miles ranging from suburban development to rural ranch land. Caughey is committed to service of both the community and members of LCFA through progressive leadership that focuses on service, ownership and unity. Caughey has an associate degree and bachelor’s degree in fire science from Columbia Southern University and is currently working on his master’s in public administration. He also achieved his Executive Fire Officer designation from the National Fire Academy along with the Chief Fire Officer designation from the Center for Public Safety Excellence. Connect with Caughey on LinkedIn or via email.