School Security Grants

At Spigot Tech Systems, we’re here to guide you through researching and securing grants for your most ambitious security and technology projects—from high-speed fiber and advanced access control to paging/intercom systems and video surveillance.

Why Partner with Us?

• Guidance Every Step of the Way
  Navigating grants can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. We’ll help you get started with the process—from researching opportunities and gathering documentation to assisting with application preparation—so you can move forward with confidence and keep your focus on your school’s safety.

• Looking Ahead, Always Prepared
  Most grants for the current 2025–2026 cycle are already allocated. But there’s great news—it’s never too early to plan ahead! Start the conversation now for the 2026–2027 grant season and get a head start on securing funding.

Ready to enhance safety, boost communications, and upgrade infrastructure with confidence? Contact Spigot Tech Systems today to begin your journey toward a funded, secure future.

E-Rate Program (FCC/USAC)

Covers: Internal broadband infrastructure, including network cabling and fiber.

• Category One: Telecommunications services, Internet access
• Category Two: Internal connections (e.g., cabling, switches, routers), managed internal broadband services (MIBS), and basic maintenance (BMIC)

Plan Ahead for E-Rate Funding

Getting approved takes preparation — start now for the 2026–2027 cycle.

You’ll need:

• Technology or network upgrade plan
• Vendor proposals & bid evaluation records
• List of eligible security services (fiber, switches, cabling, firewalls) with costs
• And many more documents, plans, and records!

We’ll help you research opportunities and prepare documentation so you’re ready when the funding window opens.

Learn more on the E-Rate website

COPS – School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP)

Covers: Physical security enhancements like video surveillance and access control.

Access Control, Paging/Intercom, and Video Surveillance Eligibility under COPS SVPP

• Access Control Systems:
  Often qualify as physical security enhancements (locks, card readers, controlled entry points) that help prevent unauthorized access and improve overall school safety.
• Paging/Intercom Systems:
  Typically considered part of emergency notification technology or communication systems designed to expedite alerts and coordination during emergencies.
• Video Surveillance:
  Falls under physical security enhancements used for monitoring, deterrence, and evidence collection.

Access control, paging/intercom, and video surveillance systems are generally eligible for COPS SVPP funding as vital physical security and emergency communication enhancements. However, eligibility depends on alignment with the program’s goals to improve school safety and reduce violence. Review the latest funding guidelines carefully to ensure your project qualifies.

Start today!
Start preparing your application now by clearly demonstrating how these technologies will enhance safety and emergency response at your school. Contact us today to get started as early as possible. Successful grant applications require thorough research, detailed planning, and careful documentation—and the sooner you begin, the better prepared you’ll be to secure funding. Let us guide you every step of the way!

Learn more on the COPS SVPP website

ISBE School Maintenance Grant

Covers: Renovations and upgrades — including safety and security systems — with dollar-for-dollar state matching grants up to $50,000.

Eligible projects typically include:

• Access Control Systems: Installation of locks, card readers, and controlled entry points to enhance building security.
• Paging/Intercom Systems: Installation of communication systems for emergency notifications and coordination.
• Video Surveillance Systems: Installation of cameras and monitoring systems for building surveillance.

To ensure your application is complete and submitted on time, it’s important to start preparing well ahead of the deadlines. You’ll need key documentation such as a clear project description outlining the scope and safety or security goals, detailed cost estimates and budget, competitive bids or quotes, a project timeline, and supporting photos or plans. Don’t wait—contact us today to get started. The earlier you begin, the better your chances for a successful grant submission!

Learn more on the Illinois State Board of Education website

IL State Programs: Security Grants

Covers:

• Security camera systems
• Entrance access controls (e.g., electronic locks, badge readers)
• Security programs designed to reduce threats and improve safety

The Illinois Security Grant Program, administered through the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget (GOMB), helps schools strengthen safety through funding for measures like cameras, access control, and security personnel. Schools applying for these grants must follow the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) rules, which set audit requirements based on how much funding is received—$750k, $500k, or $300k thresholds determine the type of audit needed. High schools in Illinois considering these grants should be aware that compliance and reporting are just as important as selecting the right security improvements.

Get started today—every step counts! The sooner you begin, the stronger your grant application will be.

Learn more on the GATA IL website