The New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) is offering funding through its Innovation Request for Applications (RFA) to support Alternative to Incarceration (ATI) and Reentry Services and Interventions. DCJS is a state-level agency committed to enhancing public safety, reducing crime, and improving the effectiveness of the criminal justice system across New York. Through this initiative, DCJS intends to advance its mission of improving community safety while strengthening outcomes for individuals who are currently involved in, previously involved in, or at risk of involvement in the justice system.
This Innovation RFA seeks proposals for both demonstration and evidence-based programming. The overarching purpose is to reduce recidivism, reduce reliance on incarceration, and address the various needs of justice-involved individuals. Programs may target factors such as criminogenic needs, responsivity factors, stabilization needs, and risks of incarceration or re-incarceration. Applicants are encouraged to present unique or evidence-based approaches to help participants successfully transition, reintegrate, and maintain stability in the community.
The total funding expected to be available under this opportunity is approximately $15.5 million. DCJS will make funding determinations consistent with the best interests of the state, ensuring resources are directed toward programs that contribute to safer communities and more effective justice system practices. Spending under this grant should be aligned with the stated purpose of ATI and reentry interventions, and must support activities that directly serve eligible populations. While the exact award ceiling, floor, and number of awards are not specified in the solicitation, applicants should design proposals that demonstrate the ability to utilize funds effectively and in compliance with DCJS program objectives.
Eligible applicants for this opportunity include governmental entities and not-for-profit organizations. Applications should provide clear documentation of the applicant’s capacity to implement proposed services and meet the eligibility requirements. DCJS emphasizes the importance of aligning applications with New York’s overall commitment to improving the lives of justice-involved individuals and supporting public safety outcomes. Proposals must demonstrate responsiveness to these goals.
The application process includes key deadlines. A bidders’ conference and application workshop will be held on August 28, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. Questions regarding the RFA are due by September 2, 2025, and responses will be posted on the DCJS website by September 15, 2025. Completed applications must be submitted by October 1, 2025, no later than 12:00 p.m. Awards are anticipated to be announced on December 10, 2025, with an initial contract period of 12 months. There is no letter of intent required for this competition.
Applicants with substantive questions must submit them in writing via email to dcjsfunding@dcjs.ny.gov. General inquiries, such as confirmation of email receipt, may be directed to DCJS at (518) 457-9787. Further details, including full solicitation documents and question-and-answer postings, can be accessed through the DCJS Office of Program Funding and Administration website at https://criminaljustice.ny.gov/ofpa/index.htm. DCJS stresses that substantive questions cannot be answered by phone and must follow the prescribed email process to ensure fairness in the competition.
Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate how their proposals support New York’s commitment to improving lives of justice-involved individuals and promoting public safety
