Deadline: 22-Oct-2025
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Office of Justice Programs (OJP), Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) is accepting applications for funding in response to this notice of funding opportunity (NOFO).
This funding opportunity is designed for eligible jurisdictions seeking to make substantial improvements in their forensic capacity, particularly by increasing the ability of publicly funded laboratories to analyze crime scene samples for entry into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) and by implementing Rapid DNA systems in booking stations.
The program aims to help jurisdictions facing challenges such as backlogs or limited testing capacity, allowing them to process more DNA samples efficiently and quickly. By boosting laboratory throughput, the program will support law enforcement agencies in reducing violent crime, help prosecutors advance their cases, and enhance public safety. Applications should present strong project designs supported by budget details and must align with the program’s core purpose of building long-term capacity.
BJA has identified specific priorities for this funding, offering preference to projects that directly support law enforcement operations, combat violent crime, protect American children, support American victims of trafficking and sexual assault, and enhance services to U.S. citizens. Applicants are encouraged to clearly describe in their proposals how their projects will advance one or more of these goals.
The program has two main goals: to increase the number of CODIS-eligible crime scene samples processed through the adoption of advanced DNA technology, and to implement Rapid DNA systems at booking stations to expedite suspect identification. Both initiatives aim to reduce delays in case resolution, prevent repeat victimization, and accelerate justice.
BJA expects to award a total of $3 million under this funding opportunity. Up to two awards of as much as $1 million each will be made under Category 1 for increasing the capacity and efficiency of forensic laboratories, and one award of up to $1 million will be made under Category 2 for implementing Rapid DNA in booking stations. All awards will have a performance period of 24 months starting on October 1, 2025.
Eligible applicants include state, county, city, township, and special district governments, as well as public and state-controlled institutions of higher education and other units of local government across the United States and its territories. Through this program, BJA seeks to help laboratories enter more samples into CODIS, enabling faster case resolutions and contributing to safer communities nationwide.
For more information, visit Grants.gov.