FAST Launches Campus Security Grants

First Alert System Text (FAST) has launched a new grant program for colleges and universities, offering no-cost implementation and service for its text message-based emergency notification system. Through the Secure Campus Grant program, 100 higher ed campuses in the United States will be awarded the notification system.

The FAST system uses the Short Message Peer to Peer protocol for delivering text messages via cell phones. The company said its notifications are "unaffected by spam blocks or heavy phone usage (as may occur in an emergency) and can reliably send more messages in less time than any other method available today." Through the service, recipients opt in or out of the notification system and are responsible for paying for the alerts they receive through a subscription that costs $0.99 per month.

Those who are accepted for the grant program will receive all software and technical support to implement the FAST system and will have set-up and licensing fees waived. The package is valued at $2,500. FAST will also supply collateral to help build awareness for the program among students, faculty, and staff once it's implemented.

The grant application process is open now, and applications are due Dec. 14. Information can be found at the link below or by e-mailing [email protected].

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About the Author

David Nagel is the former editorial director of 1105 Media's Education Group and editor-in-chief of THE Journal, STEAM Universe, and Spaces4Learning. A 30-year publishing veteran, Nagel has led or contributed to dozens of technology, art, marketing, media, and business publications.

He can be reached at [email protected]. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidrnagel/ .


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