Risk Assessment: Conducting Prison Security Audits

The National Institute of Corrections, a federal agency within the U.S. Department of Justice, administers programs designed to improve correctional practices and enhance public safety through training, technical assistance, and research. This funding opportunity focuses on strengthening institutional security practices within correctional facilities by supporting a structured and professionally managed security audit training program. The initiative reflects NIC’s broader mission to assist federal, state, local, and tribal corrections agencies in maintaining safe, secure, and humane facilities through evidence-based approaches. The purpose of this cooperative agreement is to fund an organization capable of coordinating, facilitating, and managing a comprehensive prison security audit training program that includes measurable remediation support. The program is intended to help correctional institutions identify vulnerabilities in their operations, policies, procedures, staff performance, physical infrastructure, and emergency preparedness. Through this initiative, NIC seeks to proactively reduce risks such as escapes, violence, contraband flow, and institutional disturbances by equipping participants with practical auditing skills. The funded program includes a structured 36-hour training model consisting of multiple components. These include an initial briefing with agency and facility leadership, one full day of classroom-based instruction, several days of hands-on audit work conducted within correctional facilities, and a final executive-level close-out session. Participants engage directly in real-world audit scenarios, applying standardized methodologies to assess facility operations. The program culminates in the development of a detailed audit report outlining findings and recommended remediation strategies for participating institutions. Funding under this opportunity is provided through a cooperative agreement, indicating that NIC will maintain substantial involvement throughout the project period. The total program funding is set at 175,000 dollars, with a single award expected. The recipient organization will be responsible for delivering all aspects of the training program, including logistics, facilitation, participant coordination, and follow-up reporting. Although for-profit organizations are eligible, all recipients must agree to waive any profit or fee for services, ensuring that funds are used solely for programmatic purposes. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, for-profit organizations, and institutions of higher education, including those affiliated with tribal entities. Applicants may collaborate with additional entities; however, one primary applicant must assume responsibility for program administration and oversight. Foreign governments and international organizations are not eligible. Applicants must also demonstrate appropriate organizational status, such as proof of 501(c)(3) designation or tribal authorization where applicable. Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov, following federal registration requirements including obtaining a Unique Entity Identifier and maintaining an active System for Award Management registration. Applicants are encouraged to begin registration early and submit applications at least 72 hours prior to the deadline to allow time for validation and corrections. The application deadline is July 20, 2026, and NIC advises applicants to monitor updates through Grants.gov notifications. Technical assistance is available through designated support channels, including a named contact and a customer support hotline.

Submit application at least 72 hours early and ensure all federal registrations are complete to avoid rejection or delays