Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) Grant Programs

How it works

Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) conducts annual sub-grant programs, pending available funds, under the federal Hazard Mitigation Assistance umbrella. The page describes the grant family as including the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, Flood Mitigation Assistance, Pre-Disaster Mitigation, and Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC). Homeowners and business owners may not apply directly to FEMA; eligible local governments apply on their behalf.

What the money covers

The program is meant for long-term, cost-effective improvements that reduce, minimize, or eliminate risk from natural hazards. MEMA notes that wildfire mitigation is an eligible category in the HMA program family. The page also emphasizes that these programs are not intended to pay for repair, replacement, or deferred maintenance.

Amounts and matching

The overview states that sub-applicants must commit to the non-federal share of the proposed application cost, which is generally 25% of total estimated project cost.

How to apply

Eligible local governments must have a FEMA-approved Local Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan in place before applying. Community participation in the National Flood Insurance Program may also be required for some projects.

Timing and deadlines

The page says MEMA conducts annual sub-grant programs pending the availability of funds, but the exact open and close dates vary by grant cycle and are not stated on the overview page.