Grant guides
Funding programs for volunteer fire departments
One guide per program. We publish a figure only after it's verified against the primary source — you'll see the badge and the date on every one.
Firehouse Subs grant: portal opens July 9 (be ready)
One of the best equipment grants for a volunteer department opens its next application window on July 9, 2026 — and it's first-come, capped at 600 applications. If you want it, your project and quotes need to be ready before it opens.
VerifiedAFG — the big federal grant for fire departments
The Assistance to Firefighters Grant is the largest federal source for gear, apparatus, and training — and rural volunteer departments pay just a 5% cash match. The FY25 window is closed; here's how it works and when it's back.
VerifiedUSDA money for fire trucks & stations
When FEMA's window is closed, this one's always open. USDA's Community Facilities program funds fire trucks, stations, and equipment for rural departments year-round — with a grant share up to 75% for the smallest towns.
VerifiedState wildfire grants & federal surplus equipment
Two channels most departments miss: your state forester hands out federal wildland-gear money, and the Forest Service moves surplus military trucks and tools to VFDs. Both go through your state, not Washington.
VerifiedPrivate grants for volunteer fire departments
Beyond the government, a handful of foundations fund fire-department equipment and training — several with a stated preference for volunteer and underfunded departments. Verified to each funder.
VerifiedGetting your department grant-ready (and the NERIS switch)
The registrations, reporting, and legal basics every fire grant assumes you already have. Get these done in the off-season and you can apply the day a window opens. General information — not legal advice.
VerifiedNext step
Get matched when we launch
Stalwell is launching soon. Join the waitlist and we'll match your volunteer fire departments to funding the day it opens — no spam, one email.