FY 2026 Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement- Competitive Grants Program
🏛 Bureau of Justice Assistance (USDOJ-OJP-BJA)
✓ Free, no account · Source: Grants.gov · Last verified Oct 7, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for state and local government entities that operate forensic science laboratories or medical examiner/coroner services. Public agencies including state agencies, county governments, and municipal governments can apply. The program funds improvements to forensic laboratory operations, equipment, training, and medical examiner/coroner infrastructure to enhance the quality and efficiency of forensic science services. Private nonprofits may also be eligible as sub-awardees or in partnership with government entities.
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Program description
This is a notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) for the BJA FY26 Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement—Competitive Grants Program. This opportunity funds improvements to forensic science and medical examiner/coroner services, including services provided by laboratories operated by states and units of local government.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- SF-424 (Application for Federal Assistance)
- Project Narrative
- Budget and Budget Narrative
- Organizational capacity documentation
- Letters of support (if applicable)
- Proof of nonprofit or government status
Program contact
- 👤 Bureau of Justice Assistance
- 📧 OJP.ResponseCenter@usdoj.gov
- 📞 202-514-9354
Funding track record
Recent awards under CFDA 16.742 from the last 3 years — real organizations that won funding through this same program.
Top 10 Largest Recent Awards
-
$2,371,061
-
$2,360,916
-
$2,356,933
-
$2,228,122
-
$2,116,296
-
$1,914,411
-
$1,848,206
-
$1,770,702
-
$1,737,962
-
$1,674,977
Top States by Funding
- CA 9 awards $13.1M
- FL 8 awards $7.6M
- TX 4 awards $7.3M
- IL 5 awards $3.6M
- PA 5 awards $3.4M
Source: USAspending.gov — federal spending transparency. Data covers last 3 years.
Funding history
Annual funding for this program — Federal obligations (CFDA 16.742). How funding has trended year over year.
| 2024 | $29,501,981 |
FAQ
Who is eligible to apply for this grant?
State agencies, units of local government (counties, cities), and forensic science laboratories can apply. Some nonprofits may be eligible as partners with government entities.
What can this grant fund?
Improvements to forensic science laboratories, medical examiner/coroner services, equipment, training, and operational enhancements.
Is there a cost-sharing requirement?
No cost-sharing is required for this grant.
What is the typical award amount?
Awards are typically up to $500,000, though specific amounts vary by project scope and funding availability.
When is the deadline?
The deadline is October 29, 2026. Check the NOFO for any extensions or rolling deadlines.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Clearly identify your forensic lab or medical examiner/coroner service deficiencies. Use data on turnaround times, case backlogs, and quality gaps to justify your request.
- Demonstrate strong organizational capacity to manage federal funds. Include your experience with grants, financial management, and compliance.
- Connect your project to BJA's priorities in forensic science improvement. Align with national standards and accreditation goals.
- Develop a realistic budget and timeline. Show how funds will be spent and what results you'll achieve.
- Partner with other agencies or labs if possible. Collaboration strengthens competitiveness and shows commitment to broader improvements.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Vague problem statements that don't clearly explain current forensic service gaps. Unrealistic budgets or timelines that don't match project scope. Lack of supporting data on case backlogs, quality issues, or operational inefficiencies.
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