The use of mobile devices — including smartphones, tablets and smartwatches — is set to revolutionize the way public safety agencies operate. Mobile devices provide incredible utility for first responders in the field, from access to computer-aided dispatch (CAD) and department resources, to evidence collection and reporting. The advent of reliable mobile broadband and a robust application ecosystem means mobile devices are no longer a luxury reserved for large metropolitan details or specialized teams — they are core equipment for any agency looking to modernize its operations.
Despite the clear benefits of mobile technology for first responders in the field, many agencies still struggle to pay for basic mobility initiatives — let alone fund comprehensive, agency-wide technology programs. Budgets are tight. Staff members are spread thin. When additional funding does become available, it’s often funneled towards paying overtime costs, managing backlogs and replenishing essential supplies.
Fortunately, there is a wide variety of grant programs available to address budget gaps for first responder mobility initiatives. This includes funding opportunities from dozens of state and federal grant-making agencies — each of which has its own criteria, application process and deadline. In order to make the grant-seeking process easier, Samsung has partnered with Grants Office, LLC, a national grants intelligence firm with an 18-year track record of helping public entities secure funding for their technology-driven projects.
The Samsung Grants Support Program
Finding the right grants and making sure they fit with your vision of a technology-rich project can be challenging — especially for agencies who are new to the grant-seeking process. The Samsung Grants Support Program can help you find the best funders for any upcoming technology program, and it’s a free service provided by Samsung.
Through your Samsung representative, you can access Grants Office grants development consultants to obtain a funding opportunity report — a comprehensive inventory of grant opportunities that fit with your project, as well as consultation to help you navigate the landscape of technology-friendly public safety grant funding.
Top Federal Grants Recommended for First Responders
To help get your next mobility project started, the Samsung Grants Support Program created a list of top federal grants currently available for technology purchases. These programs are just a sampling of opportunities that may be listed in your agency’s funding opportunity report.
Whether you’re looking for funding to start, expand or completely reimagine a mobility program in your agency, these grant programs offer a strong starting point.
Additional Resources for Grant Seekers
For additional context and tips to improve your next grant proposal, the Samsung Grant Support Program also hosted two free webinars. Our team of funding and technology experts reviewed the latest trends and best practices in grant funding for mobility solutions. Free recordings of these events are available on the Grants Office webcasts page.
Most grants are due in the fall and spring months each year, so now is a great time to learn about available funding and create a plan with your team for grant-seeking in 2020 and beyond!
Discover how the wearables you could fund with an approved technology grant can enhance response capabilities in this free white paper. Looking to improve your in-vehicle tech? Learn how Samsung’s DeX simplifies operations for the Chicago Police Department.