Rescue Squad Grant Program
Forecasted
Rescue Squad Grant Program supports Tennessee rescue squads by funding lifesaving equipment for incident response and member protection, helping squads serve the communities they protect.
Funder: Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance
Due Dates (Anticipated): February 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $5 million in total program funding for fiscal year 2026–2027
Summary: Funds lifesaving equipment for Tennessee rescue squads’ incident response and member protection.
Key Information: Rescue squads must have local governing-body recognition, valid SFMO recognition, and a charter filed with Tennessee’s Secretary of State.
Description
The Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance (TDCI), through the State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO), administers the Rescue Squad Grant Program to support Tennessee rescue squads and the communities they protect. Originally funded by Governor Bill Lee and the General Assembly in 2022, the program supports purchases of lifesaving equipment used in rescue squad incident response and equipment that protects squad members.
The program continues for fiscal year 2026–2027. Its focus connects the equipment needs of squads responding to incidents with the safety of the people carrying out that work. Award decisions involve rescue squad representatives and state fire prevention leadership through a seven-member selection committee.
