This document serves as a fact sheet on a grant to support the use of lawfully collected sexual assault kit evidence during the investigation and prosecution of cases; it provides an overview of who may apply and why, maximum award funds, where to find more information, tips for successful grant applications, and how and when to apply.
This solicitation overview provides grant information and resources for entities that may be interested in funding assistance from the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), on the National Sexual Assault Kit Initiative Program. The grant provides funding to improve state and local jurisdictions’ capacities to respond to violent crime and the functioning of the criminal justice system through the investigation and prosecution of cases that result from sexual assault kit (SAK) evidence and the collection of lawfully owed DNA from convicted offenders. The document lists eligible applicants as being small or state law enforcement agencies, units of local government, prosecutors’ offices, federally recognized Native American tribal governments, and governmental non-law enforcement agencies acting as fiscal agents. The overview also notes that maximum grant amount will vary based on Purpose Area and lists examples of strategies or activities that can be funded, as well as where to get more information about the grant opportunity. The document also lists five tips for submitting a successful grant application, with details about how and when to apply; it notes that the System for Award Management (SAM) registration or renewal may take up to 10 business days.