Alliance for System Safety of Unmanned Aircraft Systems through Research Excellence (ASSURE)
This grant supports developing and delivering training for emergency managers and first responders to effectively use unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in disaster response and recovery operations.
Funder: Department of Homeland Security - FEMA
Due Dates: July 31, 2026
Funding Amounts: $1,900,000 total; one award; project period: 3 years (Sept 1, 2026 – Aug 31, 2029)
Summary: Supports Mississippi State University's ASSURE Center to develop and deliver FEMA-certified unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) training for emergency management and first responders nationwide.
Key Information: Only Mississippi State University (ASSURE) is eligible to apply; subawards to partners are permitted.
Description
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and FEMA offer funding through the Alliance for System Safety of Unmanned Aircraft Systems through Research Excellence (ASSURE) to advance the development and delivery of high-quality, evidence-based, FEMA-certified UAS training. The program aims to strengthen national preparedness by closing capability gaps in the use of unmanned aircraft systems for disaster response and recovery. The initiative targets training for state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) emergency management and first responder communities, ensuring these professionals can effectively and safely employ UAS technology before, during, and after disasters.
