Illinois Fire Marshal Opens $6 Million Grant Program for Local Departments (Springfield, IL) – Fire departments and ambulance services across Illinois can now apply for a share of $6 million in state funding to purchase essential small equipment, the Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) announced this week.
Applications for the Small Equipment Grant Program must be submitted online by November 14, 2025. The program provides grants of up to $26,000 to eligible fire and EMS agencies, helping offset the cost of gear and tools that many smaller or rural departments struggle to afford.
Governor JB Pritzker said the funding will help ensure emergency responders have the tools they need to protect both themselves and the public.
“As first responders, it’s vital that firefighters and EMS providers in every corner of Illinois have the necessary funding and equipment they need to serve their communities,” Pritzker said. “I encourage all eligible departments to take advantage of this successful state program.”
Illinois State Fire Marshal Michele Pankow echoed that message, calling the grant a lifeline for local agencies.
“This program is essential for fire departments and EMS providers, allocating critical funding for equipment that not only protects our firefighters but also strengthens the safety of the communities they serve,” Pankow said.
Earlier this year, OSFM awarded $4 million in grants to 178 fire departments and EMS providers across Illinois. This latest round increases available funding by $2 million.
The program is open to most Illinois fire departments, fire protection districts, township fire departments, and stand-alone not-for-profit ambulance service providers. Applicants must meet several requirements, including compliance with the National Fire Incident Reporting System for the past two years and pre-qualification with both SAM.gov and the Illinois Grantee Portal.
Additional information and application materials are available at the OSFM website: sfm.illinois.gov/iam/firedepartment/grants-and-loans.html
Illinois Fire Marshal Opens $6 Million Grant Program for Local Departments
