The Stand Down Grants program, administered by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS), provides funding to assist veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness. The program supports local Stand Down (SD) events that offer critical employment, social, and health services. These events mirror the military concept of "stand down," providing veterans with temporary relief and access to essential resources. SD events involve partnerships between federal, state, tribal, and local entities, as well as businesses and community organizations, to create opportunities for veterans to reintegrate into the workforce.

The grant provides financial assistance up to $7,000 for one-day SD events and up to $10,000 for multi-day events. In cases of federal disaster declarations, funding may be increased to a maximum of $50,000. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, for-profit organizations, Native American tribal governments, public housing authorities, state and local governments, workforce development boards, and institutions of higher education. However, organizations classified as 501(c)(4) entities are ineligible for this grant.

Applicants must submit a detailed application that outlines the planned SD event and ensures compliance with VETS guidelines. Required components include a program narrative, a budget narrative, Standard Form 424 (SF-424) for federal assistance, and Standard Form 424A (SF-424A) for budget information. The event must provide at least five core services: health screenings, housing referrals, mental health services, employment and job training assistance, and veterans' benefits counseling. Additional services such as legal aid, personal care, clothing, food, and community services are encouraged.

Application submissions must be made at least 90 days before the planned event and sent to the appropriate State Director for Veterans' Employment and Training (DVET). Draft applications are encouraged for preliminary feedback. Awarded grantees must comply with reporting requirements, including submitting a Stand Down After-Action Report (SDAAR) and a financial expenditure report using the Federal Financial Report SF-425 within 120 days after the event.

For inquiries, applicants should contact their state’s DVET. The program guidance is effective immediately and will remain in effect until at least September 30, 2025, unless rescinded or superseded. Additional resources, such as the National Veterans' Technical Assistance Center (NVTAC) and National Veterans' Training Institute (NVTI), are available to assist with the application and reporting processes.