Indian Highway Safety Occupant Protection Grant

The Indian Highway Safety Occupant Protection Grant is a federally funded initiative administered by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), specifically through the Office of Justice Services' Indian Highway Safety Program (IHSP). This program falls under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) framework and is aligned with the U.S. Department of the Interior’s efforts to enhance road safety in tribal communities. Rooted in the Highway Safety Act of 1966 and supported through U.S.C. Title 23, Section 402, this grant program aims to support data-driven, performance-based traffic safety interventions on tribal lands. The program operates on a reimbursement model, requiring tribes to front the costs and later submit documentation for repayment. The primary objective of the Occupant Protection Grant is to reduce traffic-related injuries, fatalities, and crashes, with a focus on increasing seatbelt use and improving occupant safety. Projects eligible for funding include those that directly address seatbelt enforcement, child passenger safety efforts, and educational initiatives that raise awareness about occupant protection within Native communities. The scope of allowable costs includes the procurement of car seats, associated public awareness materials, and training for certified child passenger safety (CPS) technicians. However, indirect costs are not reimbursable for car seat purchases or shipping, as stipulated by 2 CFR 225 Appendix B.12 and 2 CFR Part 200.434. Eligible applicants for this opportunity are limited exclusively to federally recognized Native American tribal governments. Grant applications must be accompanied by a current tribal resolution and an approved indirect cost rate agreement if applicable. A critical component of the application includes a well-justified problem statement backed by data, outlining the need for enhanced occupant protection on the reservation. Applicants must also provide measurable performance targets and demonstrate capacity through a designated tribal grant coordinator. CPS programs must have a certified technician on staff or access to one, and must include plans for conducting events and distributing safety materials. The application process is straightforward but data-intensive. All fields on the application must be completed to avoid disqualification. Applications can be submitted electronically to the IHSP office or by mail. Applicants are encouraged to attend IHSP grant writing training and information sessions to increase competitiveness. The current application window opened on January 6, 2026, and all submissions must be received by May 1, 2026. The award cycle corresponds with the federal fiscal year beginning October 1, 2026, and ending September 30, 2027. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement for this grant, making it more accessible for tribal communities with limited resources. Grant funds can also be used to support CPS-related travel and conference registration, particularly for events like the Lifesavers Conference. Award amounts range from a minimum of $500 to a maximum of $90,000, depending on the proposed project scope and documented need. The number of awards has not been specified and may vary based on program funding and demand. For assistance with the application or more information, tribes may contact Kimberly Belone, Program Analyst and Coordinator for the BIA Indian Highway Safety Program, at (505) 375-3818. Additional training opportunities and technical assistance are available through BIA channels. All applications and accompanying documentation should be submitted via email to [email protected]. Following submission, awards will be announced ahead of the October 1 fiscal year start. This grant is offered on an annual basis, with recurring deadlines expected each May.

Complete all sections of the application; missing fields may result in disqualification. Consider attending IHSP grant training.