Fiscal Year 2026 Legal Assistance for Victims of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Stalking, and Sexual Assault Grant Program
Can you apply?
This grant is for nonprofits, tribal organizations, and law schools providing legal assistance to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking. Eligible applicants include private nonprofits, Indian Tribal governments, tribal organizations, territorial organizations, and publicly funded organizations not acting in a governmental capacity (like law schools). Your organization must have a mission and history of providing direct services to these victim populations. Projects must provide comprehensive legal assistance related to the abuse or violence experienced.
This grant is for nonprofits, tribal organizations, and law schools providing legal assistance to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking. Eligible applicants include private nonprofits, Indian Tribal governments, tribal organizations, territorial organizations, and publicly funded organizations not acting in a governmental capacity (like law schools). Your organization must have a mission and history of providing direct services to these victim populations. Projects must provide comprehensive legal assistance related to the abuse or violence experienced.
Program description
The Legal Assistance for Victims Grant Program increases access to legal assistance for victims of domestic/dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking who are seeking relief in legal matters relating to or arising out of that abuse or violence. It funds projects that provide comprehensive legal assistance, as defined in 34 U.S.C. § 12291(a)(24). The projects must include organizations that have a mission and history of providing direct services to victims of domestic/dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
- 501(c)(3) Public Charity
- Legal Aid Clinic
- Nonprofits
- Private University
- Public University
- Tribal Nation
- Tribal Organization
Demographic focus
Details
This grant is for nonprofits, tribal organizations, and law schools providing legal assistance to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking. Eligible applicants include private nonprofits, Indian Tribal governments, tribal organizations, territorial organizations, and publicly funded organizations not acting in a governmental capacity (like law schools). Your organization must have a mission and history of providing direct services to these victim populations. Projects must provide comprehensive legal assistance related to the abuse or violence experienced.
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
- Proof of Mission and History Serving Target Population
- Logic Model or Project Plan
- Evaluation Plan
Program contact
- 👤 Office on Violence Against Women
- 📧 OVW.LAV@usdoj.gov
- 📞 0000000000
Funding track record
No recent recipient data available for CFDA 16.524 in our database.
This can happen for newer programs, programs that use non-standard award types (loans, direct payments, fellowships), or those funded through sub-agencies under different codes.
Funding history
Annual funding for this program — Federal obligations (CFDA 16.524). How funding has trended year over year.
| 2022 | $35,659,296 | |
| 2023 | $42,837,673 | |
| 2024 est. | $42,434,215 | |
| 2025 est. | $42,434,215 |
FAQ
Who can apply for this grant?
Private nonprofits, Indian Tribal governments, tribal organizations, and law schools can apply. Your organization must have a documented mission and history of providing direct services to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking victims.
What does "comprehensive legal assistance" mean?
It includes assistance in legal matters relating to or arising from the abuse or violence. This covers matters like protective orders, family law, immigration, housing, and employment issues connected to the abuse.
Is cost-sharing required?
No cost-sharing is required for this grant. You do not need to provide matching funds.
What award amounts should I expect?
Individual awards typically range from $400,000 to $900,000, depending on project scope and need.
When is the deadline?
The deadline is July 31, 2026. This is a fixed deadline; applications submitted after this date will not be reviewed.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Demonstrate your organization's proven track record serving domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking victims. Include specific examples and outcome data.
- Show how your legal assistance project expands access for underserved victim populations. Identify geographic gaps or barriers you will address.
- Develop a detailed budget that clearly separates staffing, direct legal services, technology, and other costs. Justify each line item.
- Partner with other victim service providers or legal organizations to strengthen your application. Collaboration expands reach and credibility.
- Align your project timeline and deliverables with OVW's emphasis on victim safety, empowerment, and long-term legal stability.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Failing to document your organization's existing mission and history providing direct services to target victims. Proposing legal assistance unrelated to abuse or violence. Submitting a vague budget that lacks detail or justification for how funds will serve victims.
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