The Michigan Department of Treasury announced on May 1 the opening of the Fire Equipment Grant Program, which aims to help local units of government purchase essential fire equipment and gear for on-call, part-time, and volunteer firefighters.
The initiative is intended to strengthen public safety by supporting fire departments that depend heavily on non-full-time personnel. Grants of up to $50,000 will be available to eligible local governments that submit a completed application and proposed budget detailing how the funds will be used for qualifying purchases.
“This grant program provides support to local fire departments, including those that are staffed primarily by on-call, part-time or volunteer firefighters,” State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks said. “Ensuring that local fire departments have proper equipment directly supports the safety of firefighters and the communities they serve. Additionally, this grant program also assists with local budgets. Fire departments should not wait to apply.”
Applications must be submitted by June 19, with awards expected in August. State Fire Marshal Tom Hughes said: “Firefighting is inherently dangerous, and today’s fire environment continues to evolve with increasing demands on departments across Michigan. Having the right equipment is critical to protecting firefighters and ensuring they can safely and effectively protect the communities they serve.”
Treasury received an $8 million one-time appropriation in the state’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget for these grants. At least half of this funding must go toward agencies predominantly staffed by on-call, part-time or volunteer personnel.
Award amounts may vary depending on available funding and may be less than requested amounts due to competitive demand. Local governments interested in applying must provide a proposed budget showing how grant funds would support their needs.
More information about the Fire Equipment Grant Program can be found at Michigan.gov/RevenueSharing.
