BRIC is Back. Here’s What It Means for Your Community—and What to Do Next

After more than a year of uncertainty, the federal government has officially reopened one of the most critical funding streams for community resilience.

On March 25, 2026, FEMA announced the return of the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program—making $1 billion in funding available for infrastructure and hazard mitigation projects across the country.

For many communities, especially those navigating increasing disaster risk and limited local capacity, this isn’t just a funding announcement—it’s a renewed opportunity to move critical resilience projects forward.

What We Know Right Now

The return of BRIC comes with clearer direction—and higher expectations. Here’s what we know now. 

1. Funding is moving again—but not all at once

When BRIC paused in 2025, billions in selected projects from previous grant years stalled. As of April 2026, $1.6B of $6.5B has been obligated, meaning some communities may still have projects working their way through the system. FEMA is expected to resume program support for previous BRIC awards when the DHS shutdown ends. 

• Takeaway: Determine the status of previous BRIC applications with your State Hazard Mitigation Officer.

2. This round prioritizes projects that are ready to go

FEMA is emphasizing infrastructure projects that can move quickly—along with stronger building codes and resilience standards.

• Takeaway: Shovel-ready projects with completed planning, permits, environmental reviews, and designs in place will be more competitive.

3. Previous applications won’t carry forward

Communities that applied under earlier rounds will need to update and resubmit.

• Takeaway: Work with your State Hazard Mitigation Officer to understand how previous applications will be handled.

4. States have a bigger role than before

Decision-making is shifting more heavily to the state level, including timelines and priorities.

• Takeaway: Focus on infrastructure projects, and work with your State Hazard Mitigation Officer to answer questions about planning requirements or technical assistance needs.

5. The timeline is tight

Applications are due July 23, 2026, with earlier deadlines set by states that are responsible for soliciting subapplications from eligible subapplicants and assisting in the preparation, review and submission of eligible and complete subapplications to FEMA.  

• Takeaway: Communities that act early will have more time to answer any outstanding requests for information and ensure deadlines are met.

Where SBP Comes In

The return of BRIC represents a new opportunity to invest in your community’s resilience. Communities that act early, align with new priorities, and bring the right expertise to the table will be best positioned to succeed.

At SBP, we’ve seen firsthand that funding is only as effective as a community’s ability to access and implement it.

That’s why our work is focused on closing the gap between opportunity and execution. SBP-supported communities have successfully secured millions in federal funding since 2022 by combining local knowledge with technical expertise.

Through our Disaster Resilience Fellowship and Advisory Services, SBP helps communities:

• Identify, scope, and prioritize high-impact projects
• Navigate complex federal and state requirements
• Strengthen applications to be competitive
• Build the internal capacity needed to deliver projects successfully

Email us at [email protected] to learn more about the FY24/25 BRIC NOFO.