VFA Grants Phase 3
VFA Grants Phase 3 supports Washington fire districts and departments with wildland firefighting equipment purchases to strengthen their response capabilities and protect rural communities from wildfire.
Funder: Washington Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates: October 1, 2026 (Applications accepted from) | November 1, 2026 (Application deadline) | November 30, 2027 (Final reimbursement deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $5,000 per applicant, with dollar-for-dollar match; 55 intended awards
Summary: Supports equipment purchases that strengthen Washington fire districts’ and departments’ wildland firefighting capability and protect rural communities.
Key Information: Applicants must have at least 70% volunteer firefighter membership and wildland fire responsibility or authority.
Description
The Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR) administers Phase 3 of the Volunteer Fire Assistance program using funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service. The program helps Washington fire districts and departments obtain adequate equipment, improve wildland firefighting capability, and protect communities against wildfire. Phase 3 supports wildland fire shelters and practice shelters, approved wildland boots, wildland-specific radio equipment and accessories, and front remote nozzle systems.
This opportunity is part of DNR’s broader fire district assistance efforts to establish, develop, improve, and maintain local and rural districts’ wildland firefighting capabilities. The broader VFA program also offers personal protective equipment, general equipment, and wildfire training opportunities. Phase 3 has its own application and funding terms, separate from Phase 1 and Phase 2.
