DOJ FY 2026 Invited to Apply - National Integrated Ballistic Information (NIBIN) Modernization Program

The National Integrated Ballistic Information Modernization Program is administered by the U.S. Department of Justice through the Office of Justice Programs Bureau of Justice Assistance in collaboration with the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives. This program is part of a broader federal effort to enhance public safety and strengthen law enforcement capabilities across the United States. It is authorized under federal statute and supports initiatives aligned with national priorities such as combating violent crime improving investigative outcomes and enhancing coordination among law enforcement agencies. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to modernize the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network infrastructure at existing sites that currently rely on outdated equipment. The program focuses on providing state local and tribal law enforcement agencies with the resources needed to acquire updated ballistic imaging technology. These upgrades are intended to improve the ability to analyze ballistic evidence identify crime gun linkages and support investigations involving firearms related offenses. The modernization effort spans a fixed number of existing locations identified in the program materials. Funding under this opportunity is structured to support the acquisition installation and maintenance of NIBIN compatible equipment over a five year performance period. Each award is tied to a specific equipment system and includes coverage for maintenance software updates and technical support. Funds may be used for purchasing equipment leasing systems or entering into subscription arrangements as long as the selected approach ensures continuous operational capability and integration with the national network. Recipients are also required to plan for sustainability beyond the grant period. Eligibility for this program is restricted to specific jurisdictions listed in the official appendix of the funding notice. These entities include a wide range of law enforcement agencies forensic laboratories and investigative units across the country. Because the program is an invitation to apply only those named entities may submit applications. There is no cost sharing or matching requirement associated with this opportunity which reduces financial barriers for participating agencies. The application process requires submission through two federal systems. Applicants must first complete the standard federal assistance form through Grants dot gov followed by submission of the full application package through the JustGrants system. Required materials include a proposal narrative budget documentation a memorandum of understanding with ATF and various administrative forms. The narrative must address project goals implementation strategies and organizational capabilities. Applications are reviewed for alignment with program objectives feasibility and completeness. Key deadlines are structured in a two step process with initial submission through Grants dot gov followed by final submission through JustGrants. Notifications of award decisions are expected within the same fiscal year. Once awarded recipients must comply with reporting requirements and performance tracking to demonstrate progress toward program goals. The program emphasizes measurable improvements in ballistic evidence processing timeliness investigative follow up and overall crime gun intelligence outcomes. In addition to equipment modernization recipients are expected to adopt best practices in crime gun intelligence including timely evidence entry correlation review and information sharing. Coordination with ATF and participation in national training and correlation centers are also required where capacity allows. The program ultimately aims to strengthen nationwide forensic capabilities reduce investigative backlogs and enhance the effectiveness of law enforcement responses to firearm related crimes.

Align proposal with modernization goals ensure detailed implementation plan and demonstrate technical capacity for ballistic analysis