FY 2026 Assistance for Local Emergency Response Training (ALERT) Grant

The FY 2026 Assistance for Local Emergency Response Training (ALERT) Grant, solicited under number 693JK326NF0010 by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration within the U.S. Department of Transportation, aims to enhance the preparedness of volunteer and remote emergency responders in handling hazardous materials incidents, particularly those involving the rail transportation of crude oil, ethanol, and other flammable liquids in alignment with NFPA standards. This competitive grant program is open to non-profit organizations capable of delivering established training curricula and is designed to address critical gaps in HAZMAT response capacity across the nation. Applications must include a comprehensive project narrative detailing training plans, a detailed needs assessment using national data to target underserved areas, a budget narrative, an indirect cost agreement, and letters of support, all submitted electronically via grants.gov by the June 19, 2026 deadline. The total program funding is estimated at $1,000,000, with individual awards expected to range between $100,000 and $500,000, and performance periods lasting between 12 and 24 months, with awards no later than September 30, 2026. Evaluation prioritizes technical merit and programmatic effectiveness over cost, with selection based on the applicant’s ability to develop and deliver compliant training, reach target populations, and produce accessible electronic training materials. Grantees must demonstrate expertise in HAZMAT transport response, ensure all training adheres to NFPA guidelines, and maintain full compliance with federal civil rights mandates including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and 49 CFR Part 21, prohibiting discrimination in program delivery. Additionally, all recipients must be registered in SAM.gov with a valid Unique Entity Identifier and comply with federal reporting obligations for sub-awards and executive compensation. Special requirements include adherence to the Build America, Buy America Act, prohibition on using funds for lobbying or litigation, a mandatory flow-down of nondiscrimination clauses to subrecipients, a government license to all federally developed intellectual property, and strict compliance with anti-trafficking and whistleblower protections. Payments are processed via EFT based on SAM.gov information, and final reports are due 120 days after the conclusion of the performance period.