Targeted Community Alternatives to Prison Grant

The Targeted Community Alternatives to Prison (TCAP) grant, administered by the Franklin County Office of Justice Policy and Programs (OJPP), is a locally implemented funding initiative supported by the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC) and the Bureau of Community Sanctions (BCS). The TCAP program aims to reduce incarceration rates among individuals convicted of nonviolent, non-sex related fourth or fifth degree felony offenses in Ohio. The purpose of the grant is to support community-based alternatives to incarceration for eligible individuals, focusing on diversion strategies and services that reduce recidivism and support reintegration into the community. Eligible applicants for this funding opportunity include units of local government such as first responders and community corrections agencies, as well as nonprofit organizations with verified 501(c)(3) status. Importantly, for-profit organizations and programs that have already received FY 2026 TCAP Continuation Funds are not eligible to apply. Applicants must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) to receive funding, and all proposals must be submitted using the prescribed format outlined in the application template. Only one application per entity is allowed, with a maximum funding request of $50,000. Awardees must demonstrate a sustainability plan, as funding beyond this cycle is not guaranteed. The project period for awarded programs begins no earlier than January 1, 2026, and must conclude by December 31, 2026. Funding is provided on a reimbursement basis, and subgrantees may select a monthly or quarterly financial reporting schedule. Allowable costs include personnel, fringe benefits, travel, supplies, and consultant services, as well as stipends for program participants if appropriately justified. Equipment purchases may be approved if aligned with the program and budget availability. Indirect costs are capped at 15% of Modified Total Direct Costs (MTDC). Budgets should prioritize direct services over overhead costs. TCAP-supported programs must align with one or more of the core goals identified in the solicitation: reducing recidivism through collaborative reentry strategies and reducing crime by addressing social determinants of health among justice-involved individuals. Programs must incorporate validated risk assessment tools and demonstrate the ability to monitor ongoing and future justice involvement of participants. Applications are expected to describe how services will be equitable, trauma-informed, and culturally competent. The review process is competitive and multi-tiered, including peer reviews, fiscal risk assessment, and final approval by the Franklin County Board of Commissioners. Completed applications must be submitted electronically to Courtney Moats at Courtney.Moats@franklincountyohio.gov no later than 5:00 PM EST on Friday, October 10, 2025. Technical assistance is available via the same email address. Funding notifications are expected in late 2025, with final awards announced in early 2026. Recipients should anticipate required quarterly performance reporting and financial audits as part of post-award conditions. Programs that align with the Franklin County Rise Together Blueprint for Reducing Poverty are particularly encouraged to apply.

Applicants are cautioned against using AI tools for narrative development. Use of AI must be disclosed on the title page.