Less Lethal Alternatives for Law Enforcement Grant Program

The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA), a state agency responsible for improving the administration of criminal justice through grants, research, and policy development, is offering funding through the Less Lethal Alternatives for Law Enforcement program. This initiative is supported by the State of Illinois General Revenue Fund and is designed to enhance public safety outcomes by promoting the use of less lethal tools and strategies among law enforcement agencies. ICJIA plays a central role in coordinating justice system improvements statewide, and this funding opportunity reflects its commitment to reducing harm and supporting modern policing practices. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to support the acquisition and implementation of less lethal devices, training, and alternative approaches that reduce reliance on deadly force. The program requires the selection of a single lead entity that will administer and distribute subgrants to local law enforcement agencies throughout Illinois. This lead entity will be responsible for managing funds, ensuring compliance, and providing technical assistance and oversight to subgrantees. The program emphasizes structured monitoring, accountability, and adherence to state and federal regulations, including the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act. Funding can be used for a range of allowable activities, including the purchase of less lethal devices such as tasers, pepper spray, batons, and kinetic impact projectiles, as well as training on their proper use. Additionally, funds may support broader less lethal alternatives such as de-escalation techniques, crisis intervention, cultural competency training, and mental health response strategies. Other allowable costs include policy development, data collection, audits, and administrative expenses necessary to manage the program. However, certain costs are explicitly prohibited, including firearms, explosives, construction, vehicles, and other high-risk or unrelated expenditures. Eligibility is limited to government entities that demonstrate substantial expertise in less lethal law enforcement practices and training. Applicants must have a proven track record of distributing equipment, maintaining a statewide network of law enforcement agencies, and managing grant programs. For-profit entities, manufacturers, and organizations that sell training services are not eligible. Applicants must also meet all prequalification requirements through the Illinois GATA portal, including maintaining good standing and completing required risk assessments and internal control documentation. Applications must be submitted electronically through the Euna grant management system. The process requires prior registration in the GATA portal, obtaining a Unique Entity Identifier through SAM.gov, and designating a primary contact responsible for submission. Applications must include program narratives, goals and objectives, performance measures, and detailed budgets. Proposals are evaluated based on completeness, organizational capacity, program design, and cost-effectiveness. A competitive review process assigns scores across multiple criteria, with a total of 100 possible points. The application period opens on April 2, 2026, and closes at 5:00 p.m. Central Time on May 5, 2026. Questions must be submitted by April 27, 2026. Award decisions are expected following review and approval by the ICJIA Budget Committee in June 2026. The initial performance period runs from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, with the possibility of extensions up to a total of 36 months based on performance and funding availability. Recipients are required to submit regular financial and performance reports throughout the grant period. Contact for this funding opportunity is Michael Lynch at ICJIA, who can be reached via email at CJA.LessLethal@illinois.gov or by phone at (312) 793-8550. Additional guidance is available through a recorded technical assistance webinar. This opportunity represents a significant statewide investment in safer policing practices and the advancement of less lethal approaches to law enforcement operations.

Emphasize demonstrated statewide capacity, prior experience with law enforcement grants, and detailed monitoring plans; ensure budget aligns with allowable costs and scoring criteria