Undercover Backstopping Project

The Undercover Backstopping Project is a federal funding opportunity offered by the U.S. Department of State through the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), in coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Mexico. This initiative is designed to strengthen U.S. national security and public safety by enhancing Mexico’s capacity to conduct effective undercover law enforcement operations against transnational criminal organizations and drug cartels. INL’s broader mission focuses on combating international crime, illegal drug trafficking, and instability abroad through foreign assistance, diplomatic coordination, and institutional capacity building. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to address critical gaps in Mexico’s legal frameworks and operational systems that currently limit the effectiveness and safety of undercover operations. The project aims to develop comprehensive legal and policy recommendations to strengthen protections for undercover agents, while also designing and piloting a secure identity management or “backstopping” system. This system will enable the creation and maintenance of credible undercover identities supported by genuine government-issued documentation, thereby enhancing operational security and investigative success in joint U.S.–Mexico law enforcement efforts. Funding will support a range of activities including legal assessments, policy development, system design, training program creation, and pilot implementation. The selected recipient will design and execute a limited-scope but fully functional pilot program in collaboration with Mexican agencies. This includes developing standard operating procedures, drafting legislative proposals, facilitating interagency coordination, and delivering a basic undercover training course tailored to the Mexican legal environment. The project must remain within defined funding limits and demonstrate scalability for broader national adoption. Certain restrictions apply, including prohibitions on funding activities related to migration caravans or unauthorized drone systems. Eligibility is limited to organizations, including U.S.-based and foreign-based nonprofit organizations and educational institutions that meet applicable tax or legal status requirements. Applicants must maintain an ակտիվ registration in SAM.gov and possess a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). Individuals are not eligible to apply. While cost sharing is permitted, it is not required for this opportunity. Applicants should demonstrate organizational capacity, relevant experience, and the ability to manage U.S. government funds effectively. The application process follows a two-step structure beginning with the submission of a concise Statement of Interest (SOI), limited to three pages. This initial submission must outline the proposed project’s objectives, timeline, organizational capacity, and a high-level budget summary. Selected applicants will then be invited to submit a full proposal for further evaluation. Required application components include the SF-424 form and the SOI document, both submitted through Grants.gov. All submissions must comply with formatting and content requirements specified in the solicitation. Applications will be evaluated based on the quality and feasibility of the proposed program idea, organizational capacity and past performance, and the applicant’s ability to achieve stated objectives. The deadline for submission is June 15, 2026, with questions due by May 29, 2026. The anticipated project period is up to 24 months, with an estimated start date of October 2026. INL will maintain substantial involvement throughout the project, including oversight of milestones and collaboration with stakeholders. Contact points for the opportunity include Najar Starr and Daniela Pedroza via official Department of State email addresses.

Focus on clearly articulating a feasible program idea aligned with stated objectives; demonstrate strong organizational capacity and prior experience; ensure timeline and activities are realistic and responsive to program goals