Operation Ceasefire Grant for Forensic and Analytical Technology

The Operation Ceasefire Grant for Forensic and Analytical Technology is administered by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services, a state agency responsible for supporting public safety initiatives, law enforcement capacity, and criminal justice system improvements across the Commonwealth of Virginia. This grant program is part of a broader initiative to reduce violent crime by equipping local law enforcement agencies with advanced technological tools. The funding opportunity specifically targets the implementation of forensic and analytical technologies that can disrupt cycles of violence and improve investigative capabilities. The program reflects a statewide strategy to strengthen data driven policing and enhance the effectiveness of crime prevention efforts. The primary purpose of this grant is to support local law enforcement agencies in acquiring and implementing technology that improves their ability to detect, analyze, and respond to violent crime. Eligible uses of funds include a range of forensic and analytical tools such as ballistic imaging systems, forensic light systems, automated firearm identification technologies, artificial intelligence solutions, rapid DNA testing equipment, and other crime scene investigation tools. However, the program imposes clear restrictions on allowable expenses, prohibiting the use of funds for surveillance cameras, license plate recognition systems, unmanned aircraft, personnel costs, construction, travel, and other non technology related expenditures. All funded purchases must directly support forensic and analytical functions and contribute to measurable violence reduction outcomes. Funding for this program is competitive, with a total anticipated allocation of six million dollars and a maximum award of three hundred thousand dollars per applicant. The grant period spans two full calendar years, from January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2027. Funds are disbursed on a reimbursement basis, requiring grantees to incur and document expenses before receiving payment. Recipients must submit quarterly financial and programmatic reports through the state online grant management system. There is no matching requirement, which lowers the barrier to entry for eligible agencies. However, applicants must demonstrate sustainability by outlining how the funded equipment will be maintained and utilized beyond the grant period. Eligibility for this opportunity is limited to local law enforcement agencies within the state of Virginia. Applicants must also obtain a Unique Entity Identifier through the federal System for Award Management prior to applying. The application process requires submission through the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services Online Grant Management System. Applicants must complete multiple components including a project narrative, budget forms, justification for requested equipment, and documentation of organizational capacity. The project narrative must clearly describe the need for the proposed technology, provide supporting crime data, and explain how the project will reduce violence in the community. Applications are evaluated through a structured review process that scores submissions on criteria such as needs justification, project design, budget clarity, and alignment with program goals. Reviewers also consider factors such as past performance, geographic distribution, and overall cost effectiveness. Final funding decisions are made by the Criminal Justice Services Board following recommendations from a grants committee. Awards are expected to be finalized in early December 2025, with no appeal process available once decisions are made. The application deadline for this funding opportunity is October 10, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time, and late submissions are not accepted. Prospective applicants are encouraged to participate in technical assistance webinars offered prior to the deadline. These sessions provide guidance on application requirements and system navigation. For additional support, applicants may contact designated program coordinators at the Department of Criminal Justice Services via email or phone. Overall, this grant represents a targeted investment in technology driven approaches to reducing violent crime and strengthening public safety infrastructure across Virginia.

Provide strong needs justification with crime data; clearly link each requested item to violence reduction outcomes; ensure budget justification is detailed and reasonable; demonstrate sustainability beyond grant period