The Federal Emergency Management Agency has announced two major grant programs that together provide more than $1 billion to enhance security ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The first program allocates $625 million to the 11 U.S. host cities. These funds are intended to support a range of security measures, including training and exercises, background checks for staff, cybersecurity defenses and expanded police and emergency medical services at stadiums, hotels and transit hubs. The 11 cities are Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, the New York–New Jersey metropolitan area, Philadelphia, the San Francisco Bay Area and Seattle.
The second initiative — the Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems Grant Program — will distribute $500 million across fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to improve drone detection and response capabilities. In fiscal year 2026, $250 million will go to nine states and the National Capital Region linked to the World Cup and other major national events. The remaining $250 million will be available in fiscal year 2027 and will cover all 56 states and U.S. territories.
Both programs were established under legislation enacted in July 2025. Applications for both grant opportunities opened Oct. 28 and will close Dec. 5.
Photo by Darrel Und from Pexels
