# FEMA Opens $250M Counter-Drone Grants

World Cup security operations highlighted the challenge of coordinating information and decisions across agencies, jurisdictions, and technologies. DHS-supported testing and federal grant funding helped state and local agencies acquire counter-UAS equipment for the tournament, while FEMA has made $250 million available to help states protect critical infrastructure and major public events. State applications are due November 16, 2026 (**7 days remaining**). The experience also points to future needs for sensor integration, shared airspace awareness, operator training, and equipment sustainment ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics; the signals identify no open solicitation or procurement contact.

- States—not contractors—are the applicants for the FEMA funding. Contractors supporting counter-UAS planning, detection, and mitigation may find opportunities through state and local implementation efforts.
- The operational needs span interoperable sensors, shared situational awareness, training, and sustainment, creating potential demand beyond initial equipment purchases.
- Companies can use the November 16 application deadline and the stated 2028 Los Angeles Olympics preparation horizon to engage state and local customers on supported planning and capability needs; no specific procurement schedule is provided.

**Jurisdictions:** federal, international, sled
**Industries:** Public Safety, Information Technology
**Topics:** Digital Infrastructure, Emergency Response
**Published:** November 08, 2026

### Government Entities
- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
- U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

### Vendors
- LMI ()

### Key Quotes
> We've hit some training capacity, but we really need to keep our foot on the gas and continue the investment, albeit at a lower scale.
> — Tim Hanes, Vice President for Homeland Security, LMI

### Sources
- [
        The World Cup tested the ability of security organizations to operate across agencies, jurisdictions and technologies - Federal News Network](https://federalnewsnetwork.com/podcast/federal-drive-with-terry-gerton-podcast/the-world-cup-tested-the-ability-of-security-organizations-to-operate-across-agencies-jurisdictions-and-technologies) - Federal News Network
- [
        The World Cup tested the ability of security organizations to operate across agencies, jurisdictions and technologies - Federal News Network](https://federalnewsnetwork.com/defense-main/2026/11/the-world-cup-tested-the-ability-of-security-organizations-to-operate-across-agencies-jurisdictions-and-technologies) - Federal News Network
- [Counter-drone technology will secure U.S. skies | Opinion](https://www.northjersey.com/story/opinion/2026/11/08/counter-drone-technology-250-million-funding/92612045007) - Bergen Record