Firearm Violence Intervention and Prevention Grant Program

The Firearm Violence Intervention and Prevention Grant Program is administered by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services, a state agency responsible for supporting public safety initiatives, criminal justice research, and funding programs that enhance community safety across the Commonwealth. This funding opportunity is supported through a state special fund established by the Virginia General Assembly to address firearm-related violence through evidence-informed strategies. The program reflects a statewide policy priority to reduce violent crime and improve outcomes in communities disproportionately impacted by firearm-related incidents. The primary purpose of this grant program is to support effective and sustainable violence intervention and prevention initiatives that interrupt cycles of interpersonal violence. The program emphasizes collaboration among community stakeholders to identify and serve individuals at the highest risk of becoming victims or perpetrators of violence. Funded programs are expected to incorporate prevention strategies that deter youth and young adults from entering cycles of violence, as well as intervention strategies that provide support to individuals already impacted by violence and their families. Funding under this program may be used for a wide range of allowable activities, including mentoring programs, job training and employment services, group and gang intervention efforts, community outreach, domestic and sexual violence prevention, and trauma-informed programming. Additional supported efforts include bystander intervention initiatives, firearm safety and storage strategies, and programs aligned with substantial risk orders. However, funds may not be used for capital construction, vehicle purchases, firearms or ammunition, lobbying, bonuses, indirect costs, or other restricted expenses. All funds are distributed on a reimbursement basis for actual expenses incurred, and advance payments are not permitted. Eligibility is limited to specific applicant types. Registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that have not previously received funding under this program are eligible to apply, provided they meet readiness requirements through a formal checklist. Local units of government are also eligible regardless of prior participation. Applicants must not be debarred from doing business with the Commonwealth and must be in good standing with all current grant reporting requirements. Nonprofits must demonstrate readiness and include required documentation, including financial records and organizational governance materials. The application process is conducted through the Online Grants Management System. Applicants must complete multiple components including a project narrative, budget forms, goals and objectives, and required attachments such as letters of support and organizational documentation. The project narrative must address the need for the program, describe implementation strategies, identify the target population, and provide a sustainability plan. Applications are competitively reviewed and scored based on criteria such as project design, budget justification, demonstrated need, and organizational capacity. The application deadline for this funding opportunity is July 31, 2026, at 5:00 p.m., and late submissions are not accepted. An optional informational webinar is offered to assist applicants. Award decisions are expected following review by the Criminal Justice Services Board, with final determinations anticipated in October 2026. The performance period for awarded grants runs from January 1, 2027, through December 31, 2028. While the program may be offered in future cycles, continuation funding is not guaranteed and depends on performance, compliance, and availability of funds.

Strong emphasis on clear demonstration of need, detailed implementation plan, collaboration with community stakeholders, and sustainability planning