Victims of Crime Act (VOCA)

The New York State Office of Victim Services (OVS) administers the Victim Assistance Grant Program under the federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) and is currently accepting applications for its 2026 cycle. This funding opportunity is designed to support direct services for crime victims across New York State. Following the rescission of awards from the previous 2025 RFA due to non-approval by the Office of the State Comptroller, this 2026 solicitation is mandatory for all organizations seeking VOCA funding for the next grant period. The funding performance period runs from October 1, 2026, to September 30, 2028. Awards will be made through a multiple award process and contracts will remain in effect for the full two-year cycle. OVS's mission includes delivering compensation to victims, funding service programs statewide, and advocating for victim rights. The agency seeks innovative proposals that extend services to underserved and marginalized populations, including BIPOC communities, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, victims of hate crimes, and indigenous peoples. The solicitation encourages organizations to offer trauma-informed care and culturally-specific services that address gaps in existing victim support networks. Eligible services include crisis intervention, mental health support, shelter, legal assistance, and advocacy, among others. Both new and existing programs operated by government units or nonprofit organizations may apply. Applications must be submitted through the Statewide Financial System (SFS) no later than 5:00 PM EST on March 23, 2026. Late submissions will not be reviewed. All questions regarding the RFA must be submitted via email by February 13, 2026. OVS will publish responses by February 27, 2026. An optional bidders’ conference will be held on February 2, 2026, at 11:00 AM. Applications will be reviewed for administrative eligibility before undergoing programmatic and budget evaluation. Awards are anticipated to be announced by July 1, 2026. Funding for this cycle totals $253 million across two years. A maximum of $12.65 million annually is set aside for criminal justice agencies, which include police departments, prosecutors, probation departments, and similar entities. Any unclaimed criminal justice funds will be redistributed to other eligible applicants. While a blanket match waiver is currently in place, applicants should be aware that cost-sharing requirements may be reinstated depending on future federal guidance. Organizations must be prequalified in the Grants Gateway and registered in SAM.gov with a Unique Entity ID (UEI) to be eligible. The application consists of three components: a programmatic narrative, a detailed budget and budget narrative, and required supporting forms, including service estimates, staffing breakdowns, certifications, and geographic service area projections. Evaluation will prioritize the clarity and feasibility of proposed services, organizational capacity, and alignment with state and federal priorities. Additional scoring emphasis is placed on projects that address community violence, serve all 62 counties, or involve tribal nations or indigenous organizations. For inquiries or assistance, applicants may contact Kathleen Joslin at [email protected] or Victoria Melillo at [email protected]. Supporting documents, including the full RFA, are available online. Contracts awarded under this solicitation are subject to final approval by the New York State Attorney General and Comptroller. All funded programs must meet comprehensive reporting and audit standards and comply with all applicable federal conditions.

Use data-driven need statements; Align services to underserved populations; Emphasize trauma-informed and culturally-specific practices; Prequalify early in Grants Gateway and SAM.gov.