Public safety agencies often experience funding roadblocks when starting a drone program. Agencies are often strapped for cash when it comes to routine purchases. Therefore, it can be difficult to get funding for a new technology without a proven track record.
Over 60% of public safety agencies are operating on less than $10,000 per year. About 23% are operating a drone program on less than $1,000.
These budget constraints are a big reason why we see aircraft like the ANAFI or the Mavic Air getting a lot of use by public safety agencies. While they weren’t originally designed for enterprise or agency use, they’re reliable and less expensive than larger commercial-grade systems, making them more accessible.
The Importance of Transparency
Obtaining funding for drone programs can seem like a daunting task. However, public sector agencies with experience successfully launching these programs have demonstrated that approaching the community, whether private citizens or local businesses, is beneficial to the sustainability of a drone program. It’s necessary to help the public understand what the program will offer and what it will be used for. This can even lead to funding opportunities.
Initially skeptical, the public may ask:
- Will they be weaponized?
- Can you spy on me?
- Will you violate my rights somehow?
When James Bushey, Chief of Police at the Town of Linn, started his program, he found a few articles detailing success stories. Other departments shared how they had used drones to find missing persons or a fugitive on the run. Bushey and his agency made sure to explain what the purpose of the drone program was. They also showed how this equipment would be used with integrity.
This transparency built awareness for the program. It also showed citizens and local businesses that there was a real, tangible benefit to having such technology at hand, even in a small town and somewhat rural area.
How to fund a drone program
Learn more about how to acquire additional funding (including donations) for your drone program in our white paper, “How Are Public Safety Agencies Funding Their Drone Programs?”. This white paper will walk through how to fund a drone program. You’ll also receive some ideas and strategies for building, launching, and receiving support for a new public sector drone program. Complete the form below to download the white paper:
