Federal grant programs, particularly those administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), can provide critical funding to outfit, renovate or build a new public safety building, but navigating the competitive process of grant funding can be daunting. During this presentation, participants will learn the key questions to ask before receiving a grant and gain a foundational understanding of federal grant programs to understand the answers. With over a decade of grant management experience, Dr. Wilmoth will also share practical strategies to enhance project eligibility and competitiveness from successful past projects, including a $2 million grant awarded for renovation of the City of Anaheim Emergency Operations Center in California. The session will conclude with a discussion about engaging local, state, and federal elected officials to garner support for proposed projects.