Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Volunteer Firefighter Equipment and Training Grant (VFEAT)

How can my volunteer fire department become eligible for a VFEAT grant?

Eligible fire departments must hold a valid recognition from the Tennessee State Fire Marshal's Office and have a staff comprised of at least 51% volunteer firefighters. 

Are vehicles eligible items?

Yes. Beginning in 2026, $1 million will be available for the local match portion of a federally awarded grant for fire apparatus. These funds are available through a newly established grant by the legislature, but you will still apply for these funds via the regular VFEAT application.

If my fire department wants to request items that are not listed in the budget, how should we request these items?

Any items not listed in the budget can be added under “Other” in your Budget Details. Please complete the required fields for each item added. Please identify the priority of these items (for your department) in the Application Narrative under the Scope of Service section of your application. For each additional item you add under “Other”, please attach price quotes in the Additional Documents section under Supporting Documentation. *If you have already submitted your application and would like to update your budget, please email sfmo.grants@tn.gov and your application will be moved to draft status where you can make adjustments and re-submit

Can VFEAT grant funds be used with matching federal funds?

Yes. Grant funds can be applied to cover the local match portion of a federal grant.  The grant award documents must be included with your submitted VFEAT application.

How are grants awarded?

Applications received during the submission period will be scored internally and submitted to a seven-member committee who will oversee the award selection. The committee is composed of three representatives from the Tennessee Fire Chiefs Association, three representatives from the Tennessee Firemen’s Association, and TDCI’s Assistant Commissioner of Fire Prevention. 

Are rescue squads eligible for VFEAT grants?

Rescue Squads wishing to apply for the VFEAT grant must be recognized by the SFMO as a fire department and have a staff made up of at least 51% volunteer firefighters.

If my organization is recognized by the SFMO as a fire department and a rescue squad, can we apply for both the VFEAT grant and the Rescue Squad grant?

Yes. Organizations holding current recognition by the SFMO as a fire department and a rescue squad may apply for, and potentially receive, awards for both grants. Eligibility for the VFEAT grant, however, requires a staff made up of at least 51% volunteer firefighters.

Where can I get an application?

A link to the application, as well as other information about grants, can be found by visiting the SFMO’s Grant Opportunities page:  SFMO Grant Opportunities

Where can I find a step-by-step registration guide, blank W-9 form, and obtain an Edison Supplier ID?

This information (and more) can be found on the SFMO’s Grant Opportunities page: SFMO Grant Opportunities

Is there a webinar providing instructions for completing the grant application?

An instructional webinar will be provided on November 3, 2026, at 6 pm central. A link to the webinar will be sent out prior. The webinar will be recorded and available for viewing on demand once edited. A link to the recording will be posted on the SFMO’s Grant Opportunities page: SFMO Grant Opportunities

If I have questions, who should I contact?

Contact Director of Grants Loren Haynes by email at sfmo.grants@tn.gov or calling (615) 806-3725.