Combating Transnational Criminal Organizations through Data-Driven Analysis and Customized Investigative Mentoring

The funding opportunity titled Combating Transnational Criminal Organizations through Data Driven Analysis and Customized Investigative Mentoring is issued by the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs within the U.S. Department of State. This bureau operates globally to counter crime, illicit drug trafficking, corruption, and instability that impact both international partners and U.S. national security. The program specifically targets Bosnia and Herzegovina through the Office of Europe and Asia, focusing on strengthening the institutional capacity of the State Prosecutor Office. The initiative reflects broader U.S. foreign assistance priorities related to criminal justice system strengthening and international law enforcement cooperation. The primary purpose of this grant is to support the development and operationalization of a newly established analytical center within the Bosnia and Herzegovina State Prosecutor Office. The project emphasizes integrating advanced data analytics into prosecutorial workflows to better identify, investigate, and dismantle transnational criminal organizations. These organizations are increasingly sophisticated, utilizing complex financial networks, cryptocurrency, and cross border systems to evade detection. The program seeks to equip prosecutors and analysts with tools and methodologies to process large datasets, including financial records and open source intelligence, and translate findings into actionable legal cases. Funding for this opportunity totals up to 650000 dollars, with a single anticipated award ranging between 550000 and 650000 dollars. The funding is provided through International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement funds under the Foreign Assistance Act. The project period is expected to last between 30 and 36 months, with an anticipated start date in October 2026. Funds may be used for a wide range of implementation costs including training, mentoring, travel, analytical tools, software systems, and international collaboration activities. Cost sharing is encouraged but not required, allowing applicants flexibility in structuring their financial contributions. Eligible applicants are limited to organizations, including U.S. and foreign based nonprofit organizations and educational institutions. Applicants must demonstrate strong expertise in data driven investigations, open source intelligence, and advanced analytical methodologies. Individuals and public international organizations are not eligible. Organizations must also maintain proper federal registration requirements such as a Unique Entity Identifier and active registration in SAM.gov. Only one application per organization is permitted, although consortium applications are allowed with a designated lead applicant. The application process requires submission through Grants.gov and includes multiple required components such as standard federal forms, a detailed proposal narrative, performance monitoring plans, risk analysis, organizational documentation, and a comprehensive budget with narrative justification. The proposal narrative must address project context, theory of change, implementation plan, evidence base, prior experience, and sustainability strategy. Applications are evaluated using a structured scoring system totaling 100 points, with emphasis on project design, monitoring and risk management, institutional capacity, and cost effectiveness. Key deadlines include a question submission deadline of July 15 2026 and a final application deadline of August 17 2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. The funding opportunity was issued on June 15 2026. Selected applicants are expected to receive notification by November 2026, and funded recipients must comply with quarterly reporting requirements using the INL DevResults system. Points of contact for the opportunity include Marco Horta and Almir Smajli, who can provide additional clarification during the application period. Overall, this funding opportunity represents a targeted effort to enhance prosecutorial effectiveness against complex transnational crime through advanced analytics, international cooperation, and institutional capacity building. It aligns with broader U.S. objectives to combat illicit financial flows and strengthen rule of law in strategically important regions.

Focus on strong evidence based theory of change clear implementation plan and measurable outcomes; ensure budget aligns directly with activities and demonstrate prior experience in similar projects