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 less than 50% full-time career firefighters. 

Are vehicles eligible items?

No. Vehicles (motorized equipment that carries passengers) are not eligible. 

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.  

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?

Departments must hold a valid recognition certificate from the SFMO and have a staff that consists of less than 51% full-time career firefighters. There are some dual function agencies for fire and rescue that may be eligible as they would be required to be recognized by the SFMO as a fire department. 

Can my rescue squad apply if we also applied for the VFEAT grant and a Rescue Squad grant?

Yes. Applicants can apply for both grants but can only accept one award. If an applicant is awarded a VFEAT grant they can choose to accept it and void their Rescue Squad grant application. Alternatively, a VFEAT grantee may choose not to accept their award and move forward with a Rescue Squad application. 

Where can I get an application?

Applications are available by following this llnk. 

To apply for a VFEAT grant, do I need an Edison number?

Yes. An Edison Supplier ID is required. Please note your Supplier ID on the application. 

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

This information (and more) can be found on the SFMO’s Grant Opportunities page by following this link.  

Where can I find a video recording of a webinar about applying for a grant?

You can see the grant webinar video here.  

Where should applications be submitted?

Please email all applications to SFMO.grants@tn.gov to ensure receipt by the deadline by 2 p.m. CST on Dec. 4, 2025.

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.