Millions in Project Safe Neighborhoods Grants Available

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is making up to 12 awards between $200,000-$500,000 available to reduce violent gang and gun crime for 24-month Project Safe Neighborhoods projects beginning in October.

The program is effective. It reduced gun crime victimization in Detroit by 17 percent and gang-involved shootings in Boston by 31 percent, according to research conducted by Michigan State University in 2009.

Project Safe Neighborhoods uses data, evidence and innovation to develop strategies that are effective and economical. According to the grant announcement, the data-driven approach enables jurisdictions to understand the crime challenges they are facing and directs resources to the highest priorities. Thus intelligence- and data-driven strategies will be key factors for funding selections.

DOJ will review grant applications for high-performing and evidence-based programs where need is greatest and where the most violent neighborhoods are being addressed.

Local and state governments, educational and other organizations certified by the U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO) may apply through the following categories:

• Category 1: USAO district populations of 5 million or more (awards up to $500,00)
• Category 2: USAO district populations of 2 million–4,999,999 (awards up to $350,000)
• Category 3: USAO district populations under 2 million (awards up to $200,000)
• Category 4: Federally recognized American Indian tribes and Alaska Native tribes and/or tribal organizations (awards up to $200,000)

Applications are due March 28, 2017.

Grant recipients will have between three and six months to complete their assessments and develop strategic action plans.

There is no match requirement for grant applications.

Learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods grant requirements and how to apply on Grants.gov.