Disrupting Transnational Criminal Organizations Through Advanced Forensic Capabilities in Morocco

The U.S. Department of State, through its Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, has issued a funding opportunity titled Disrupting Transnational Criminal Organizations Through Advanced Forensic Capabilities in Morocco. This initiative is part of the bureau’s broader mission to counter international crime, narcotics trafficking, and instability abroad in order to protect U.S. interests and support global security. The program specifically focuses on Morocco due to its strategic role as a transit point for illicit goods and its importance in regional law enforcement cooperation across Africa and the Middle East. The primary purpose of this grant is to strengthen Morocco’s capacity to combat transnational criminal organizations by enhancing forensic science capabilities. The project centers on two major components. First, it seeks to provide advanced training in forensic and digital evidence collection, analysis, and utilization. Second, it includes the deployment of a mobile forensic laboratory to underserved regions such as Laayoune and Dakhla, where current delays in evidence transport significantly hinder timely investigations. By addressing these gaps, the program aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of criminal investigations and prosecutions. Funding for this opportunity totals 2100000 USD, with individual awards ranging from 1500000 USD to 2100000 USD. Only one award is anticipated. The project performance period is expected to last 24 months, with an estimated start date in late 2026. Allowable uses of funds include personnel, training delivery, procurement of forensic equipment, development of curricula, travel, and operationalization of the mobile forensic facility. Applicants must ensure that all costs are reasonable, allocable, and compliant with federal cost principles. While cost sharing is encouraged, it is not required for this program. Eligible applicants include U.S. and foreign nonprofit organizations and educational institutions, provided they demonstrate appropriate registration and operational capacity in Morocco. Applicants must also maintain compliance with federal requirements such as SAM registration and Unique Entity Identifier acquisition. Public international organizations are explicitly excluded. The program encourages collaboration with Moroccan government entities, particularly the General Directorate of National Security, and emphasizes partnerships that enhance sustainability and regional capacity building. The application process requires submission through Grants.gov and includes standard federal forms such as SF 424 and SF 424A, along with a comprehensive proposal narrative, performance monitoring plan, risk analysis, timeline, organizational documentation, and detailed budget materials. The proposal narrative must outline the project context, theory of change, implementation plan, and sustainability strategy. Evaluation criteria emphasize project design, feasibility, institutional capacity, monitoring and risk management, and cost effectiveness. The application timeline includes a question submission deadline in mid August 2026 and a final application deadline in early September 2026. Awards are expected to be announced by October 2026. Successful applicants will be required to submit quarterly performance reports and comply with detailed monitoring and reporting requirements through the INL DevResults system. The program also includes strict vetting requirements, including compliance with human rights standards and anti trafficking regulations. Overall, this funding opportunity represents a significant investment in strengthening forensic science infrastructure and expertise in Morocco. By combining training, equipment deployment, and institutional capacity building, the program aims to create sustainable improvements in law enforcement capabilities and contribute to broader regional security objectives.

Align proposal with Morocco forensic infrastructure and demonstrate coordination with DGSN; ensure strong monitoring plan and risk mitigation; clearly justify budget and procurement strategy