FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) supports eligible, long-term solutions that reduce the effects of future disasters. For public owners, that can mean planning and infrastructure work intended to reduce risk before another disaster occurs. HMA is a group of grant programs, and eligibility depends on the program and the disaster affecting the community. Review the official FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance page for current program details and application guidance.
What it funds
HMA funding supports eligible mitigation projects and planning. Civil engineering work may include assessing hazards, developing mitigation plans, and designing improvements that reduce future disaster impacts. The specific work FEMA will fund depends on the relevant grant program, the project, and its eligibility. Owners should confirm that a proposed project fits the applicable program before investing in a full application.
Mitigation planning can help a community identify risks and develop a path to reduce them. Project development may also require technical studies and a benefit-cost analysis. These steps help applicants explain the hazard, the proposed solution, and its expected benefits.
Who applies
States can apply for HMA funding as primary applicants. Local communities often apply as subapplicants through the state process. Federally recognized tribes may apply through the state where they are located or directly through FEMA's HMA program. Eligible applicants and the route to apply depend on the program and the circumstances affecting the community.
Engineering firms such as Firm owners do not receive an HMA grant simply by proposing a project. The public agency or tribal applicant develops and submits the grant application. Consultants may support that work when selected under applicable procurement requirements.
Award size and funding available
These details can vary by grant program and funding opportunity. Check the official program page and the current funding notice for available funds, award limits, cost-share requirements, and eligible expenses before planning a budget.
Cycle and current status
HMA opportunities and application processes depend on the program and disaster context. Check the official FEMA page and the relevant state or tribal applicant for current notices, submission windows, and instructions.
Communities should also confirm how their state manages subapplications. State processes can affect when a local project is considered and what materials are needed.
How consultants win the design work
Agencies apply for HMA grants. Consultants are selected by the agency through qualifications-based selection (QBS) for professional services such as planning, benefit-cost analysis, grant writing support where allowed, design, and construction phase services. Procurement rules apply, so firms should follow the agency's solicitation and selection process and confirm which services may be charged to the grant.
Firm owners can prepare by keeping relevant project experience, staff qualifications, and technical capabilities ready for agency requests. The grant application and the consultant procurement are separate processes. A role supporting an application does not guarantee a later design or construction phase contract.
What owners should do now
- Identify the hazard and the public infrastructure or community asset that may need mitigation.
- Contact the state HMA office or the appropriate tribal program contact to understand the application route and current process.
- Confirm the project's eligibility, required planning documents, benefit-cost analysis needs, and applicable funding conditions using official guidance.
- Prepare a clear project scope and procurement plan, then select consultants under the rules that apply to the agency and funding source.
Official program page: https://www.fema.gov/grants/mitigation. Check it for current notices of funding opportunity before advising a client.
