State Aid for Police Protection: Communication Encryption Grant Program (SAPC)
The SAPC grant from the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy funds Maryland law enforcement to obtain and implement AES-256 encrypted radios, boosting secure, interoperable public safety communications.
Funder: Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy
Due Dates: August 19, 2026 (GMS User ID request) | August 28, 2026 (Full application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $6,000,000 total; typical awards range from $20,000 to $1,000,000 for a 9-month project period; up to 20 awards expected.
Summary: Supports Maryland law enforcement agencies in procuring, upgrading, and implementing AES-256 encrypted communications equipment to enhance secure, interoperable public safety communications.
Key Information: Only current recipients of SFY27 State Aid for Police Protection (SAPP) funds are eligible to apply.
Description
This funding opportunity, administered by the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy (GOCPP), is designed to help Maryland law enforcement agencies transition to or complete their adoption of Advanced Encryption Standard (AES-256) compliant radios and related equipment. The program aims to close existing encryption gaps, improve officer safety, and ensure interoperability with local, state, regional, and federal partners. Funding may be used for the procurement, upgrade, and implementation of secure communications infrastructure in line with national public safety standards.
