Campus Student Safety Grant Program FY2027
Funds evidence-based safety and security projects at Ohio colleges and universities, supporting technology, training, and collaborative programs to prevent and respond to campus threats.
Funder: Ohio Department of Higher Education
Due Dates: July 10, 2026 (questions cutoff) | July 29, 2026 (full proposal)
Funding Amounts: Up to $950,000 total; max $50,000 per institution, $75,000 for joint proposals (project period: July 1, 2026–June 30, 2027)
Summary: Supports student safety and security initiatives at Ohio higher education institutions through evidence-based practices and technology.
Key Information: Proposals must be received by 12:00 p.m. on July 29, 2026; questions deadline is July 10, 2026.
Description
This program funds projects that enhance the safety and security of students on college and university campuses in Ohio. The Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE) seeks proposals to implement or expand evidence-based safety practices, physical security upgrades, technology solutions, and programs that prevent or respond to threats such as violent crime, terror attacks, hate crimes, or harassment. Priority is given to institutions demonstrating increased threats or risks to students or student organizations.
Eligible expenses include, but are not limited to:
- Security technology (e.g., surveillance cameras, access control, alarms)
- Training for campus law enforcement/security (e.g., de-escalation, mediation)
- Reporting/communication software (e.g., threat detection, tip lines)
- Collaborative safety programs with law enforcement, institutional offices, and student organizations
- Hiring licensed security for events (limited to 20% of proposed budget)
- Physical security improvements (requires a recent Security Vulnerability Assessment)
Funds may not be used to supplant existing safety activities or to purchase weapons (including firearms, ammunition, pepper spray, batons, or similar items).
