BJS FY25 National Victimization Statistical Support Program (NVSSP)

The Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS), a component of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), has announced the National Victimization Statistical Support Program (NVSSP), an initiative designed to enhance and support its statistical work on crime and victimization. This program will offer up to $2,000,000 in federal funding to provide scientific and technical support for methodological research, statistical analysis, documentation, and dissemination efforts primarily related to the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS). The NCVS is one of the most important tools used by the federal government to understand both reported and unreported crime across the United States. The funding is intended to continue the foundational work of improving NCVS utility, cost-effectiveness, and public value. BJS is seeking applicants that can conduct rigorous methodological and statistical research related to criminal victimization, work in coordination with the U.S. Census Bureau (which administers the NCVS), and support a wide range of tasks including survey instrument testing, data analysis, reporting, and dissemination. The NVSSP is a continuation of BJS’s broader efforts to modernize and enhance its data collection and reporting systems, which have included initiatives such as cybercrime measurement, juvenile victimization research, and the development of user-accessible data dashboards like N-DASH. The program’s scope includes but is not limited to: implementing and supporting new NCVS survey instruments; conducting rapid-response studies and methodological assessments; developing restricted-use and public-use data files; and assisting in research related to a potential future transition of the NCVS to a self-administered format. Recipients will also be responsible for collaborating on key statistical support projects—up to 10–15 annually—which may involve cognitive testing, focus groups, OMB clearance packages, technical working groups, and dissemination activities like reports, briefings, and data visualizations. There are no cost-sharing or matching requirements associated with this funding opportunity. Eligible applicants include a broad range of institutions, including public and private higher education institutions, nonprofit organizations, and both small and large for-profit businesses. Only one application may be submitted per entity. Applications must be submitted in a two-step process: first through Grants.gov by February 10, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET (SF-424 form), and then through JustGrants by February 17, 2026, at 8:59 PM ET, with all required components uploaded and finalized. The project is expected to begin April 1, 2026, and run for a 24-month performance period. Evaluation of proposals will be conducted using a mix of peer review and internal review processes, with selection criteria including the strength of the project design, organizational capacity, budget appropriateness, and understanding of performance metrics. BJS may prioritize proposals that align with broader DOJ goals, including supporting law enforcement, protecting children, assisting victims of trafficking and assault, and addressing violent crime. All deliverables—such as monthly progress reports, semi-annual reviews, financial reports, and decision memos—must be submitted according to the detailed timeline established in the award’s kickoff meeting and refined work plan. For technical questions or assistance, applicants are advised to contact BJS via [email protected] with “FY25 NVSSP” in the subject line. Additionally, different support desks are available for technical issues related to Grants.gov, SAM.gov, and JustGrants. No pre-application such as a concept paper or LOI is required, but prompt registration and setup in the application portals is strongly recommended to avoid last-minute delays.

Emphasize understanding of NCVS, strong project management, data dissemination plans, and attention to DOJ priorities like violent crime and victim services.