Undercover Backstopping Project

The U.S. Department of State, through the U.S. Embassy in Mexico and the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), has issued a request for Statements of Interest for the Undercover Backstopping Project. This initiative is part of the federal government’s broader foreign assistance strategy to combat transnational crime, enhance public safety, and strengthen international law enforcement partnerships. INL’s mission centers on reducing the impact of illegal drugs, organized crime, and instability abroad, and this funding opportunity directly supports those goals by focusing on improving Mexico’s capacity to conduct secure undercover operations against criminal organizations that threaten both U.S. and Mexican communities. The primary purpose of this project is to enhance Mexico’s legal, technical, and operational capabilities related to undercover law enforcement activities. The program seeks to address critical gaps in legal protections and identity management systems that currently expose undercover agents to risk and limit operational effectiveness. Through this initiative, applicants are expected to develop policy recommendations, design and pilot a secure identity “backstopping” system, and create a foundational training program for undercover operatives. These efforts are intended to improve the safety, reliability, and scalability of undercover operations, ultimately strengthening bilateral efforts to disrupt criminal networks. Funding for this opportunity is provided through a cooperative agreement, with an estimated total program funding of 1,500,000 U.S. dollars. Individual awards are expected to range from at least 1,000,000 to up to 1,500,000 dollars, with one to two awards anticipated depending on funding allocations. The project performance period is approximately 24 months, with an expected start date in October 2026. While cost sharing is encouraged, it is not required, allowing applicants flexibility in structuring their budgets. However, all proposed costs must align with program objectives and comply with federal funding restrictions, including prohibitions on certain activities such as support for migration caravans or specific restricted entities. Eligible applicants include a range of organizational entities, such as U.S.-based and foreign-based non-profit organizations and educational institutions. Individuals are not eligible to apply. All applicants must obtain a Unique Entity Identifier and maintain an active registration in SAM.gov. The program emphasizes organizational capacity, prior experience managing grants, and the ability to deliver complex technical assistance in an international context. Applicants are expected to demonstrate expertise in legal analysis, identity systems, training development, and interagency coordination. The application process follows a two-step structure. In the first phase, applicants must submit a concise three-page Statement of Interest that outlines the proposed project, including goals, objectives, expected outcomes, beneficiaries, and timeline. This submission must be accompanied by a completed and signed SF-424 form. Only selected applicants from this initial review will be invited to submit a full proposal in the second phase. Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov by June 15, 2026, and all materials must be provided in English and adhere to specified formatting requirements. Applications will be evaluated based on three primary criteria: the quality and feasibility of the program idea, the organizational capacity and past performance of the applicant, and the clarity and effectiveness of program planning. The review process includes a merit-based assessment, and selected applicants may receive conditions or recommendations to address in their full proposals. INL will maintain substantial involvement throughout the project, including approving key milestones and collaborating on stakeholder engagement, while not directly managing day-to-day operations. Key deadlines include the issuance of the funding opportunity on May 15, 2026, a deadline for submission of questions by May 29, 2026, and the final application deadline of June 15, 2026. Questions must be submitted via email to designated INL contacts. Selected applicants will be notified following the initial review phase and invited to proceed to the full application stage. The program is not explicitly described as recurring, and funding is contingent upon availability. This initiative represents a strategic investment in strengthening cross-border law enforcement capabilities and enhancing long-term cooperation between the United States and Mexico.

Ensure the SOI clearly communicates a feasible and well-structured program idea aligned with objectives and demonstrates strong organizational capacity and prior experience managing similar grants