Asset Forfeiture for Racial Justice Grant Program

The Asset Forfeiture for Racial Justice Grant Program, also referred to as the Bend the Arc grant, is administered by the Santa Clara County District Attorney Office. The program is part of a broader reform initiative led by District Attorney Jeff Rosen aimed at addressing racial disparities, discrimination, and inequities within the criminal justice system. The funding source is derived from asset forfeiture proceeds, which are funds seized from criminal enterprises such as gangs and drug trafficking organizations. These funds are redirected to support community-based efforts that aim to prevent crime and strengthen marginalized communities within Santa Clara County. The primary purpose of the grant program is to support initiatives that actively work to reduce racial inequities and improve outcomes for underserved populations. Funding is intended to support programs, events, and causes that demonstrate a clear connection to addressing systemic disparities. The program emphasizes community impact, particularly in neighborhoods and populations disproportionately affected by crime and enforcement practices. By reinvesting forfeited funds into these communities, the District Attorney Office seeks to create a restorative cycle that mitigates harm and promotes long-term equity. Grant funding is relatively small in scale, with awards capped at five thousand dollars per recipient. Funds may be used for programmatic support, events, or specific causes, but they must be used prospectively and cannot be applied retroactively to activities that have already occurred. This restriction ensures that funds are used intentionally for planned initiatives with measurable outcomes. Additionally, recipients are required to enter into a formal grant agreement and must report on both outcomes and expenditures, reinforcing accountability and transparency in the use of public funds. Eligibility for the program is broad and inclusive, allowing organizations, individuals, and informal groups to apply. Applicants are not required to be nonprofit entities; however, they must have access to a Taxpayer Identification Number. If an applicant does not possess a TIN, they are required to partner with an organization that does, which will act as a fiscal agent to receive and manage the funds. Certain restrictions apply, including the prohibition of applications from District Attorney employees and their immediate family members. All funded activities must directly benefit marginalized communities located within Santa Clara County. The application process is intentionally streamlined to encourage participation. Applicants are required to submit a one-page letter of interest that outlines key details, including the nature of the request, funding amount, intended use of funds, and expected outcomes. The letter must also include organizational or individual contact information and a description of how the project will benefit marginalized communities. Only one application per applicant is permitted, and submissions must be sent via email to the designated contact by the stated deadline. Applications are reviewed by the District Attorney Office, and all applicants receive confirmation upon submission. Decisions are communicated via email after the review process is completed. Successful applicants must complete administrative requirements, including vendor registration within the County financial system and submission of required tax forms. They must also provide a final report detailing project outcomes and a record of expenditures by a deadline specified in the grant agreement. The grant operates on an annual cycle, with a clearly defined submission deadline of August 14, 2026 for the current round. While exact award notification timing is not specified, applicants can expect communication following the review period. The program reflects an ongoing commitment by the County to reinvest in community-driven solutions and is expected to continue in future cycles as part of the broader Bend the Arc initiative.

Clearly demonstrate measurable impact on marginalized communities and align proposal with racial equity objectives outlined by the program