The Building Excellent Schools Today (BEST) Program, administered by the Colorado Department of Education, is a state grant program that provides dedicated funding for school safety and security improvements in Colorado. This program provides a valuable pathway for eligible applicants to secure funding for protective infrastructure, safety training, and security technology upgrades.

Eligible uses of Building Excellent Schools Today (BEST) Program funding include construction of new schools, and general construction and renovation of existing facilities.

Eligible applicants for the Building Excellent Schools Today (BEST) Program include school districts, charter schools, institute charter schools, and boards of cooperative educational services. Application details: notice of intent to apply required for eligibility, fy2026-27 deadline passed, and submit applications through gains. This grant program is currently active and accepting applications. Capital funding for security/safety projects.

Organizations looking to complement Building Excellent Schools Today (BEST) Program funding with weapons detection technology can explore solutions from GXC Inc., including the OPENGATE weapons detection system for entry screening and the MSD Plus portable ferrous detector. Request a quote today to find the right detection solution for your facility and grant eligibility.