Volunteer Fire Capacity (VFC) Grant
The CAL FIRE Volunteer Fire Capacity Grant funds rural California fire departments to improve firefighter safety, training, and equipment, focusing on PPE, communications, and compliance with wildland firefighting standards.
Funder: California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection
Due Dates (Anticipated): January 2027 (Grant Agreement package) | May 2027 (Full application) | November 2027 (Final invoice)
Funding Amounts: $500–$20,000 per award (50/50 match required); total annual funding typically ~$1.5 million; reimbursement basis only.
Summary: Supports rural and volunteer fire departments in California to organize, train, and equip for fire protection—especially for PPE, communications, and minor equipment.
Key Information: Projected dates; applicants must serve communities ≤10,000 population and provide a dollar-for-dollar match.
Description
The Volunteer Fire Capacity (VFC) Grant, administered by CAL FIRE and federally funded through the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978, provides financial assistance to local, rural, and volunteer fire departments across California. The program’s goal is to strengthen the operational readiness of departments serving small or rural communities (generally with populations of 10,000 or less) by helping them organize, train, and purchase essential safety gear, communications equipment, and minor firefighting tools. The grant is not intended for major capital expenses (e.g., fire engines, vehicles, or facility repairs) but focuses on day-to-day firefighter and community safety.
