Fiscal Year 2026 National Urban Search and Rescue Response System

Background
The National Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) Response System, funded by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), aims to maintain a national urban search and rescue capability. This Cooperative Agreement supports the continued development and readiness of 28 national task forces that provide federal assistance during natural and man-made disasters. The funding ensures these task forces can maintain operational readiness independent of Sponsoring Agency funding, enabling them to conduct mass search and rescue operations and assist in stabilizing community lifelines post-incident.

Grant Details
The Cooperative Agreement provides funding for various tasks including:

- Administration and management of task force activities.
- Training personnel to perform US&R duties.
- Procurement and maintenance of equipment according to the US&R Equipment Cache List.
- Leasing space for offices, training facilities, or storage.
- Supporting readiness activities such as catastrophic planning and mobilization exercises.
- Facilitating strategic discussions among Sponsoring Agency leaders.

Task forces must ensure compliance with NIMS, maintain detailed records of expenditures, submit regular performance reports, and conduct self-evaluations to assess operational readiness.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include state and local agencies that sponsor US&R task forces. Each task force must maintain a roster of personnel meeting necessary qualifications for deployment, ensure compliance with NIMS requirements, and demonstrate a commitment to training and preparedness activities.

Period of Performance
The period of performance for this Cooperative Agreement is 36 months, during which all tasks must be completed. Extensions may be requested under specific conditions.

Grant Value
The minimum base total for each task force under this Cooperative Agreement is $1,898,333. Additional funds may be allocated based on specific needs as outlined in appendices related to the grant.

Place of Performance
The grant will be performed across various locations where the 28 national task forces are based, primarily in 19 states.