Law Enforcement Camera Grant

The Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board administers the Law Enforcement Camera Grant to strengthen public trust, accountability, and evidence collection through the deployment of body-worn and in-car video camera technology. This program builds on two decades of the State’s investment in technology to enhance officer transparency and improve public safety outcomes. It provides direct financial assistance to eligible Illinois law enforcement agencies of municipalities, counties, park districts, and public universities for the purchase, lease, and management of body and in-car video cameras, related data storage systems, and officer training. The program originates from statutory authority under the Law Enforcement Camera Grant Act (50 ILCS 707) and the Law Enforcement Officer-Worn Body Camera Act (50 ILCS 706). These laws recognize the importance of camera technology in documenting police interactions, protecting both the public and officers, and ensuring integrity in the criminal justice process. Body-worn cameras capture impartial evidence, improve accountability, and support training and supervision functions within departments. The program also establishes consistent statewide protocols to safeguard privacy and ensure uniform application of camera standards across Illinois. The total anticipated funding available under this program is approximately fifty-five million dollars, sourced from state appropriations. Awards range from small purchases of a few cameras to major departmentwide implementations, with individual award ceilings of up to three million dollars. Funds may be used to purchase or lease in-car video systems, officer-worn cameras, related data storage or licensing services, and officer training in camera operation. Grantees may receive funding in advance, by reimbursement, or through working capital advances. Pre-award costs are permitted for purchases made on or after July 1, 2025, and the period of performance extends through June 30, 2030. Applications must be submitted electronically through the AmpliFund portal by December 31, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. Central Time. The opportunity opened October 15, 2025. Submissions must include the Uniform Grant Application, budget, conflict-of-interest disclosures, and documentation of officer training compliance. Applicants must also provide supporting documentation for equipment purchases or leases, data storage expenses, and agency rosters verifying active and inactive officers. Each applicant must be registered and “qualified” in the Illinois Grant Accountability and Transparency Act Grantee Portal before an award can be issued. Awards are expected to be announced on or after April 1, 2026. Eligible applicants include Illinois law enforcement agencies that are recognized by the Board, are compliant with mandated training, and meet all requirements of the Law Enforcement Camera Grant Act. Public universities and units of local government are eligible; state agencies themselves are not. Entities must maintain good standing with the Illinois Secretary of State, hold valid FEIN and UEI numbers, and be listed in SAM.gov as public. No match is required and indirect costs are not allowable. Awards will be administered by ILETSB and subject to ongoing monitoring, reporting, and auditing per 2 CFR 200 and 44 Ill. Admin. Code Part 7000. Funded agencies must submit quarterly financial and performance reports, and annual reports to ILETSB, the Governor, and the General Assembly by May 1 of each year detailing camera use, installation, and outcomes. A technical assistance session is scheduled for November 5, 2025. For program questions, applicants may contact Allison Mesecher at ptb.grants@illinois.gov or 217-785-4540. This grant is a one-time competitive opportunity with no recurrence, designed to advance transparency, officer safety, and public confidence in Illinois law enforcement.

Applicants should confirm GATA qualification, training compliance, and accurate documentation for pre-award expenses; maintain segregated interest-bearing accounts for advance funds.