The BJA FY25 Justice Counts program is designed to enhance criminal justice data sharing and utilization across state and local jurisdictions. It aims to improve transparency, accountability, and policy decisions by developing and implementing metrics for sectors including law enforcement, courts, and corrections. The program has two funding categories: State Partnership Grants (Category 1) and Training and Technical Assistance (TTA, Category 2). Both seek to address data-related challenges in criminal justice systems and enhance evidence-based decision-making.
State Partnership Grants (Category 1) support intergovernmental collaborations to adopt Justice Counts metrics, enabling state entities to work with local agencies to integrate, analyze, and publish criminal justice data. Awardees in this category will focus on public data sharing, decision-making, and transparency reforms. Grants under this category have a ceiling of $1,000,000 and a performance period of 36 months.
The TTA provider (Category 2) will develop resources, maintain and innovate Justice Counts tools, and provide ongoing support to states adopting these metrics. This includes technical assistance for state agencies and broader jurisdictional support nationwide. The award ceiling for this category is $2,150,000, also with a performance period of 36 months.
Eligible applicants include state governments, tribal governments, educational institutions, nonprofits, and for-profits for the TTA category, while only government entities may apply for the State Partnership Grants. The program emphasizes inclusivity and encourages applications from diverse organizations, including those serving disadvantaged communities.
Key dates include a Grants.gov deadline on March 27, 2025, and a JustGrants application deadline on April 3, 2025. Award notifications are expected by September 30, 2025, with project start dates anticipated on October 1, 2025. There are no cost-sharing or matching fund requirements for this program.
Applications must be submitted in two stages: first, through Grants.gov for the SF-424 form and then through JustGrants for the complete application package, including a detailed proposal narrative, budget forms, and other required attachments. Strict compliance with submission guidelines and deadlines is essential to proceed to the merit review phase.
Awards will be evaluated based on demonstrated need, project goals and objectives, design and implementation, capabilities and competencies, and cost-effectiveness. The review process also includes risk assessments and programmatic considerations, ensuring alignment with the BJA's objectives and federal grant requirements.
Successful applicants will need to provide regular performance and financial reports, comply with all applicable federal regulations, and participate in any program evaluations. The program aims to leverage data-driven approaches to enhance public safety and the efficiency of justice systems nationwide.
