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The side compartment of a fire truck displays neatly organized firefighting equipment, including coiled hoses, nozzles, a fire extinguisher, chainsaw, generator, and other essential tools. Metallic shelves and brackets secure the gear, emphasizing the department’s preparedness and operational efficiency.

Mini-Grant

Offering Financial Assistance to Support Fire Departments

Learn More About Grant Apply for Grant

Mini-Grant

The Mini-Grant provides financial assistance to support fire departments by alleviating financial strain, ensuring they can continue their vital work without economic hindrance.

Two firefighters in gear handle a yellow hose connected to a red Louisa Volunteer fire engine near a body of water, surrounded by trees and grass. Louisa Volunteer Department

The Virginia Fire Services Board awards individual mini-grants based on need, with a maximum of $30,000 per jurisdiction annually. 

Key Features: 

  • The Mini Grant is derived from an annual assessment against all licensed insurance companies doing business in the Commonwealth writing a Code-defined type of insurance.   
  • Effective August 11, 2000, the Virginia Fire Services Board adopted a policy of providing grants, termed “Mini-Grants,” from the interest earned by the Fire Programs Fund.   
  • The Administration, Policy, and Finance Committee within VDFP is responsible for governing this program in cooperation with the Department of Fire Programs.   

These grants are restricted to activities, projects and programs that positively impact and/or further the fire service within the Commonwealth.

How to Apply

Eligible localities can apply for the Mini Grant by downloading and completing the form below. Before applying, it is recommended you review the Mini Grant Policy first. 

Review Mini-Grant Policy 

Download Mini-Grant Application

*An Assessment Form is also required as part of the application submission. Please be sure to complete and submit with your application. 

Download Assessment Form

Grant applications should be sent directly to: 

Grants Unit 
Virginia Department of Fire Programs Administration 
1005 Technology Park Drive Glen Allen, VA  23059-4500

FAQ for Mini-Grants

  • Open to Virginia localities

  • The review of Mini-Grant funding requests is based on the following criteria:

    • Number jurisdictions involved
    • Availability of matching funds (optional)
    • Previous grants
    • Proper application
    • Timeliness of application
    • Impact if grant not awarded
    • Number of programs affected
    • Demonstrated need

    Individual Mini-Grant award amounts are decided by the Virginia Fire Services Board based upon the evaluation and recommendations of the Virginia Department of Fire Programs in accordance with the criteria above.

    VDFP will evaluate applications based upon the substance of the application and supporting documentation relative to the objectives of the grant program. 

    The Virginia Department of Fire Programs reserves the right to verify any or all information recorded on the application. The Administration, Policy and Finance Committee will be supplied with individual applications with the VDFP recommendations to review for acceptance. 

  • Mini-Grant projects and program start-ups must be completed within twelve months of receiving the award.  

    • Localities that receive a grant are required to submit a written report to VDFP within thirty days after the twelve-month period ends.  
    • This report should detail how the funds were used, the benefits to fire service agencies and/or the community and provide feedback on the Virginia Fire Services Board Mini-Grant program. 

  • Available each fiscal year, based on funding availability, the application period is from July 1 – August 31.

Contact Us

For any questions about Mini-Grant, please submit a Contact Us Inquiry or send an email to grants@vdfp.virginia.gov.