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VDEM announces pre-application deadline for the hazard mitigation grant program following Hurricane Helene

Thursday, January 23, 2025/Categories: News Board

The Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) is encouraging eligible applicants to submit pre-applications for the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding following recovery efforts for Hurricane Helene (FEMA-DR-VA-4831). This is a statewide opportunity; however, priority will be given to declared localities following the impacts of Hurricane Helene. 

PRE-APPLICATIONS ARE DUE TO VDEM BY March 30, 2025.

HMGP Overview

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Grant Program provides funding for eligible applicants following a presidential major disaster declaration. The purpose of this program is to rebuild from disasters in a way that reduces, or mitigates, future disaster losses in communities. Example of project types can include, but not limited to:

  • Property Acquisition and Demolition
  • Mitigation Reconstruction
  • Infrastructure Protection
  • Developing or Updating Mitigation Plans
  • Drainage Improvement and Flood Control Projects

Who Can Apply?

  • Local governments (which includes cities, counties, towns, special government districts), state agencies, certain non-profit organizations, and federally recognized tribal governments.
  • Applicants must have a FEMA-approved local or tribal Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) at the time of grant fund obligation in accordance with Title 44 Code of Federal Regulations Part 201.

Pre-Application Submission

The pre-application is the first step in applying and is a simple form that lets us know your intent to apply, the type of the project and an estimated budget. It allows VDEM to do initial eligibility screening, and to provide technical assistance.  A pre-application is not a formal application for funding, which will be required by the application due date, which will likely be in August 2025.  Pre-applications must be submitted through the VDEM EM Grants portal.  If you do not have a VDEM EM Grants account, please register for an account here and indicate the reason as HMGP application, and the program category as Hazard Mitigation Assistance. VDEM staff will review and approve your account request, at which point you can begin the pre-application process.

For more information on the application process and eligibility criteria, contact your locality’s VDEM regional hazard mitigation grant administrator.

VML Contact: Caitlin Barbieri, Caitlin.Barbieri@vdem.virginia.gov