Synopsis

This NOFO seeks to support research and evaluation that advances the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the criminal justice system. The goal of this NOFO is to enhance lawful decision-making and help improve its accuracy and effectiveness through AI applications supporting crime prevention, public safety, and criminal justice systems. Research should explore both the benefits and limitations of AI, addressing potential risks and downstream impacts. NIJ expects to fund studies that explore use cases in policing, corrections, courts, or other criminal justice adjacent areas to examine the suitability of using AI to solve operational problems, as well as evaluate the impacts and outcomes when integrated into criminal justice practice. Applying for this funding opportunity involves a two-stage process that begins with submission of a concept paper. Based on the merits of the concept paper, NIJ may request that the applicant submit a full proposal. Applicants should not submit a full proposal unless invited. For information on the concept paper format, please see the General Purpose of the Funding section of this NOFO.
Response Date	Jun 15, 2026 12:00:00 AM EDT
Posting Date	May 14, 2026 12:00:00 AM EDT
Archive Date
Award Ceiling	2,500,000
Award Floor	N/a
Cost Sharing	No

Eligibility

Eligible Applicants

Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education, State governments, Special district governments, Small businesses, Public and State controlled institutions of higher education, Others (see text field entitled "Additional Information on Eligibility" for clarification), City or township governments, For profit organizations other than small businesses, Private institutions of higher education, County governments, Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized), Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments), Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education

Additional Info on Eligibility:

Other Units of Local Government

Additional Information

Agency Name	National Institute of Justice
Link to Additional Information:	Full Announcement
Grantor Contact Information:	If you have difficulty accessing the full announcement electronically, please contact: GrantSolutions Help Desk Phone: 202-616-5314

CFDA Program(s)

• 16.560: National Institute of Justice Research, Evaluation, and Development Project Grants