Apply Now: BJA Postconviction Testing of DNA Evidence Program (United States)

The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) is offering the FY 2026 Postconviction Testing of DNA Evidence grant. This opportunity aims to support states and local government units in covering costs related to reviewing postconviction cases, locating evidence, and conducting DNA testing in violent felony cases. The deadline for applications is 8 December 2026. Opportunity at a Glance

- Provider: Bureau of Justice Assistance, Department of Justice

- Opportunity Type: Grant

- Funding Amount per Award: Up to $1,000,000

- Eligible Applicants: County governments, city or township governments, state governments, public and state-controlled institutions of higher education, special district governments, and other units of local government

- Application Deadline: 8 December 2026

- Funding Activity Category: Law, Justice, and Legal Services

- Cost Sharing Requirement: None

About the Opportunity

The BJA FY 2026 Postconviction Testing of DNA Evidence program is designed to assist state and local governments in mitigating expenses for postconviction case review and DNA testing. This program is specifically aimed at violent felony cases where DNA evidence testing could potentially establish actual innocence as defined by state law. Funding and Benefits

- Maximum Award: $1,000,000 per recipient

- Cost Sharing: Not required

- Use of Funds: Defraying costs for postconviction case reviews, evidence location, and DNA testing in violent felony cases.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

- County governments - City or township governments - State governments - Public and state-controlled institutions of higher education - Special district governments - Other units of local government, such as towns, boroughs, parishes, villages, or other general-purpose political subdivisions of a state Eligible Activities or Priority Areas

The grant supports activities such as:

- Reviewing postconviction cases - Locating and evaluating relevant evidence - Conducting DNA testing in violent felony cases with potential findings of actual innocence Why This Opportunity Matters This grant provides crucial financial support that can lead to the exoneration of wrongfully convicted individuals by enabling accurate DNA testing in postconviction cases. It empowers local governments to uphold justice and integrity within the legal system. How to Apply

- Prepare Application: Gather necessary documents and information regarding your eligibility and proposed activities.

- Submit Application: Visit the website to submit your application by 8 December 2026.

- Contact for Assistance: If you encounter issues accessing the full announcement, contact OJP.ResponseCenter@usdoj.gov.

Frequently Asked Questions Who can apply for this grant? Eligible applicants include various levels of local government and public educational institutions as outlined above. What is the deadline for application submission? Applications must be submitted by 8 December 2026. Is cost sharing required for this grant? No, cost sharing is not required. What is the maximum funding amount available per award? Each award can be up to $1,000,000. What types of activities will be funded? Funding will cover activities related to postconviction case review, evidence location, and DNA testing in violent felony cases. Next Steps