OVW Fiscal Year 2026 Sexual Assault Services Formula Program

The Sexual Assault Services Formula Program is administered by the Office on Violence Against Women within the U.S. Department of Justice, a federal agency responsible for implementing programs authorized under the Violence Against Women Act. This program is designed to support national efforts to prevent and respond to sexual assault by distributing formula-based funding to states and U.S. territories. The funding is intended to strengthen systems that provide direct services to victims, ensuring access to critical support regardless of age or background. The primary purpose of this program is to assist states and territories in delivering intervention, advocacy, accompaniment, and related support services to victims of sexual assault, as well as their families and others affected by the violence. Funds are directed toward maintaining and expanding rape crisis centers and other nonprofit or Tribal organizations that provide direct assistance. Services may include 24-hour hotlines, crisis intervention, accompaniment through legal and medical systems, and coordination of comprehensive care. The program emphasizes victim-centered approaches and equitable access to services across geographic regions. Funding is distributed according to a statutory formula, with each state and territory receiving a base allocation and additional funds distributed based on population. There are also provisions for supplemental funding under specific legal conditions related to child custody protections for survivors. States may use up to five percent of their allocation for administrative costs, while the remaining funds must be subgranted to eligible service providers. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement associated with this funding opportunity. Eligibility is limited to state governments and designated territorial entities, including the District of Columbia and U.S. territories. Only the agency designated by the governor of each jurisdiction is permitted to apply. These agencies are responsible for administering funds and ensuring compliance with statutory requirements, including equitable distribution of funds and meaningful involvement of community stakeholders, such as sexual assault coalitions and underserved populations. The application process involves a two-step submission. Applicants must first submit a standard federal assistance form through Grants.gov by the stated deadline, followed by a full application package submitted through the JustGrants system. Required components include a proposal narrative, financial documentation, certifications, and various assurances related to program compliance. The proposal narrative must describe stakeholder involvement, equitable funding distribution, and implementation strategies. Applications are not subject to competitive peer review, as this is a formula grant program. Instead, submissions are reviewed for completeness and adherence to statutory and regulatory requirements. Missing or incomplete materials may delay funding. Award notifications are expected by the end of September, and funded projects will have a performance period of approximately 24 months beginning in early August. Key deadlines include submission of the initial application in early July and completion of the full application shortly thereafter. The program operates on an annual cycle, with recurring opportunities expected each fiscal year. Applicants may contact the Office on Violence Against Women via email or phone for technical assistance or clarification regarding requirements.

Ensure meaningful involvement of sexual assault coalitions and underserved communities and clearly demonstrate equitable distribution of funds across regions