Byrne-Justice Assistance Grant Program

The Byrne Justice Assistance Grant and State Crisis Intervention Innovation solicitation is administered by the Iowa Office of Drug Control Policy, a state agency responsible for coordinating criminal justice and drug control funding initiatives. This funding opportunity combines two federal funding streams, the Byrne Justice Assistance Grant and the Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program, into a single competitive solicitation designed to support innovative approaches to public safety and behavioral health challenges. The program is rooted in federal priorities emphasizing crime prevention, system efficiency, and data-driven justice strategies, while being implemented at the state level to address Iowa-specific needs. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to support projects that prevent and control crime, improve the effectiveness of the criminal justice system, and address substance abuse and violent crime through innovative strategies. Priority areas include improving justice system efficiency, using data to enhance decision-making, strengthening behavioral threat assessments, enhancing specialty courts, and deploying investigative technologies. Additional focus areas include improving correctional facility security and reducing recidivism and victimization. The program encourages applicants to propose forward-looking, evidence-informed initiatives that are both cost-effective and sustainable beyond the grant period. Funding for this solicitation is derived from two sources, with approximately 500000 dollars allocated through the Justice Assistance Grant component and 700000 dollars through the State Crisis Intervention Program. Federal guidelines require that a significant portion of funds be passed through to local jurisdictions. The solicitation is structured as a special, one-time funding opportunity intended primarily for innovative projects and one-time expenses. While ongoing costs may be included, applicants must provide a clear sustainability plan demonstrating how the project will continue after grant funding ends. No cash or in-kind match is required for participation. Eligible applicants include state and local units of government, tribal entities, nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions such as school districts, community colleges, and public universities. However, nonprofit and faith-based organizations must apply through a governmental entity acting as the legal applicant. The program emphasizes collaboration across jurisdictions and sectors, particularly for projects involving technology or system-wide improvements. All applicants must ensure compliance with federal and state guidelines, including restrictions on unallowable expenses such as construction, weapons, routine equipment replacement, and certain law enforcement tools. The application process consists of two required components. Applicants must first submit a written application through the Iowa grants management system, which includes a project abstract and detailed budget. Applications deemed eligible and viable will be invited to participate in a virtual presentation conducted via Microsoft Teams. This presentation serves as a critical evaluation stage where applicants must articulate the problem addressed, project design, expected outcomes, and overall impact. Review criteria include need, feasibility, cost effectiveness, innovation, and alignment with program priorities. The application deadline for the written component is June 29, 2026, at 4:30 PM, with presentations scheduled between July 14 and July 23, 2026. Award notifications are expected around August 1, 2026. The grant performance period runs from September 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, with a possible extension through September 30, 2027 if justified. The program is not recurring and is described as a special solicitation, meaning future funding rounds are uncertain. For application assistance, applicants may contact the program officer via phone or email provided in the solicitation materials. Overall, this funding opportunity seeks to drive innovation within Iowa’s criminal justice and behavioral health systems by supporting projects that are data-informed, collaborative, and sustainable. Emphasis is placed on measurable outcomes, efficient use of resources, and the ability to demonstrate meaningful impact on crime reduction and system improvement.

Focus on data driven proposals demonstrate cost effectiveness and sustainability align clearly with priority areas and prepare a strong presentation for the review panel