OVC FY 2026 Services for Victims of Technology-Facilitated Abuse

The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), within the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs, administers this funding opportunity to support services for victims of technology-facilitated abuse. OVC provides federal leadership and resources to enhance victim services, strengthen public safety, and uphold justice for individuals affected by crime. This particular funding opportunity focuses on emerging forms of abuse enabled by digital technologies, including image-based sexual abuse, non-consensual distribution of intimate images, sextortion, synthetic media such as deepfakes, online stalking, harassment, and related harms. The purpose of this grant is to expand and improve services for victims of technology-facilitated abuse by supporting organizations that can identify victims and deliver specialized assistance. The program emphasizes developing structured response protocols, coordinating with multidisciplinary partners, and delivering direct services tailored to the unique challenges posed by digital abuse. These services may include safety planning, digital privacy management, assistance with evidence preservation, emotional support, and referrals to legal and mental health resources. The program also prioritizes educating victims about their legal rights and available remedies. Funding under this opportunity is provided through cooperative agreements, allowing substantial involvement from the federal agency in project implementation. The total available funding is $6,000,000, with an anticipated six awards of up to $1,000,000 each. The expected period of performance is 36 months beginning October 1, 2026. Allowable costs include personnel salaries, technology and equipment that enhance victim safety, and facility-related expenses. However, funds cannot be used for law enforcement investigations, prosecution activities, cash payments to victims, or general prevention programs not directly serving victims. Eligibility for this funding opportunity is broad and includes government entities at the state, county, city, and tribal levels, as well as educational institutions, public housing authorities, and nonprofit organizations with or without 501(c)(3) status. Only one application may be submitted per applicant, although partnerships are allowed through subrecipients. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement, making the program accessible to a wide range of organizations with varying financial capacities. The application process consists of two required submission steps. Applicants must first complete and submit the SF-424 form through Grants.gov, followed by submission of the full application in JustGrants. Required application components include a proposal narrative, budget, financial documentation, and supporting materials such as resumes and a project timeline. The proposal narrative must address the need for the project, outline goals and objectives, describe implementation strategies, and demonstrate organizational capacity. Evaluation criteria are weighted across these sections, with emphasis on project design, capabilities, and alignment with program goals. Key deadlines for this opportunity include submission of the SF-424 by June 23, 2026, and completion of the full application in JustGrants by June 29, 2026. Applicants are encouraged to begin system registrations early to avoid delays. Award notifications are anticipated by September 30, 2026. Throughout the grant period, recipients are required to submit regular performance reports documenting progress toward objectives and compliance with program requirements. For assistance, applicants may contact the OJP Response Center via phone or email during standard business hours. Additional support is available through Grants.gov, SAM.gov, and JustGrants help desks. This funding opportunity does not explicitly state a recurring cycle, and applicants should treat it as a single competitive round unless future announcements are issued.

Align proposal with stated goals and objectives; clearly demonstrate organizational capacity; ensure budget justification aligns with activities; follow formatting rules strictly for narrative