WASHINGTON, D.C. — Communities across the country will have access to $1.1 billion in federal funding to reduce flood risks and prevent costly disaster damage, under new grant opportunities announced by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
What This Means for You
- Federal funding is available to reduce flood damage in local communities
- Projects could lower future insurance costs and disaster recovery spending
- Local governments will lead decisions on how funds are used
The funding will be distributed through two programs designed to help states, territories, and Tribal Nations invest in flood mitigation — projects that reduce or eliminate long-term flood damage risks.
Flood mitigation includes measures such as elevating homes, improving drainage systems, or relocating structures out of high-risk flood zones to prevent repeated damage.
How the Funding Works
The largest portion of the funding comes through FEMA’s Flood Mitigation Assistance program, which supports community-led efforts to protect buildings insured under the National Flood Insurance Program, a federal insurance system that helps property owners recover financially after flood events.
A second component, known as Swift Current, provides faster access to funding after a presidentially declared flood disaster, allowing communities to quickly implement protective measures before future storms.
Federal funding will cover between 75% and 100% of project costs, with state and local governments reimbursed after completing approved work.
Policy and Program Changes
The funding opportunities were originally published in 2025 and have been revised to align with updated federal guidance and policy priorities.
FEMA officials said the updated approach is intended to improve efficiency, reduce long-term costs to taxpayers, and give communities more control over how funds are used.
“Secretary Mullin is keeping his promise to reform emergency management and return critical decisions to a more localized level,” said Karen S. Evans, the agency’s senior official performing the duties of administrator.
Why Flooding Is a Priority
Flooding remains the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States, driving billions of dollars in damage each year.
By investing in mitigation projects upfront, officials aim to reduce future claims through the National Flood Insurance Program and limit the financial impact of disasters on both governments and homeowners.
Next Steps
Eligible governments can apply for funding through the federal grants portal at https://www.grants.gov, where application requirements, deadlines, and eligibility criteria are posted.
Projects will be evaluated based on their ability to reduce long-term flood risks, protect infrastructure, and lower future disaster recovery costs.
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