Best Crime Grants in Puerto Rico

The BJA FY 2026 Intellectual Property Enforcement Program aims to bolster public health, safety, and the economy by combating counterfeit goods and product piracy. This funding opportunity supports the formation or enhancement of law enforcement intellectual property enforcement task forces. It assists various jurisdictions in tackling intellectual property theft and related crimes, while also aiding in the investigation and prosecution of such offenses, thereby addressing the associated violent crime.

The BJS FY 2026 Criminal History Record Assessment and Research Program (CHRARP) aims to enhance the Bureau of Justice Statistics' ability to analyze recidivism and criminal history data. This program will support the standardization of criminal records across jurisdictions, enabling accurate statistical analyses. By refining existing data coding systems and addressing data quality issues, the CHRARP will improve research on offenders' patterns and careers, ultimately contributing to effective criminal justice policies.

The BJS FY 2026 National Incident-Based Reporting System Estimation Program aims to enhance statistical protocols for crime and arrest data collection in the U.S. This funding opportunity supports the ongoing development of the NIBRS Estimation System, focusing on improving data quality, timeliness, and estimation methodologies. By refining these processes, the program seeks to address public safety challenges and provide reliable national estimates, thereby ensuring effective law enforcement and crime prevention efforts.

Public agencies and organizations improving legal representation in state capital cases can apply for up to US $450,000 to enhance prosecution and indigent defense capacity in Puerto Rico and other eligible U.S. jurisdictions. With a mission to strengthen the justice system, the Bureau of Justice Assistance supports crime and justice initiatives that uphold the rule of law and protect civil rights.

The DOJ's FY 2026 BIDEN Program aims to address immigration-related challenges by providing funding to eligible state and local governments. This initiative focuses on enhancing law enforcement's capacity to apprehend criminal aliens, investigate gang activities, and manage court operations related to crimes committed by aliens. By supporting these critical efforts, the program aims to improve public safety and uphold the rule of law in communities across the nation.

State, local, Tribal, and territorial prosecuting agencies in Puerto Rico and nationwide can apply for Bureau of Justice Assistance support to assign or hire full-time special prosecutors. Grants from the Bureau of Justice Assistance help strengthen capacity to investigate and prosecute fraud and other crimes by criminal aliens, as well as drug and human trafficking offenses, with awards up to US $300,000,000.

The BJA FY 2026 Daniel Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy Program aims to enhance the safety of federal judges and their families by preventing the disclosure of sensitive information. This funding opportunity supports state and local governments, including tribal entities, in implementing protective measures. The program emphasizes collaboration between federal, state, and local agencies to ensure justice is administered without fear of personal reprisal. Grants can only be used for the designated purpose of safeguarding federal judges as outlined in the statute.

Puerto Rico Catholic dioceses and parishes working in approved Extension Dioceses can seek support to expand pastoral and social outreach ministries, including crime and justice-related services. Puerto Rico organizations addressing homelessness, immigrant support, prison ministry, or disaster-related humanitarian aid may access funding through Catholic Extension to strengthen their community-focused church programs.

U.S.-based research institutions and similar organizations, including those serving Puerto Rico, can apply for Bureau of Consular Affairs funding to study impacts of international parental child abduction on children and left-behind parents. This cooperative agreement awards up to US $1,973,000 for research on crime and justice, child welfare, and crime victim services and support gaps.

Courts or justice-system entities in Puerto Rico seeking to strengthen drug courts and addiction treatment programs can apply for competitive cooperative agreement funding, with awards up to US $6,000,000. Grants from the Executive Office of the President support training, technical assistance, and materials to improve evidence-based treatment, reduce recidivism, and lower criminal justice costs.

Research institutions and agencies working on crime and justice in Puerto Rico can apply for up to US $2,000,000 through the National Institute of Justice to study crime data collection and reporting. Funding supports rigorous research to assess data accuracy, identify common challenges, and develop scalable best practices to strengthen crime data governance and public safety reporting.

Organizations conducting crime and justice research on international parental child abduction affecting U.S.-based children and parents can apply for this cooperative agreement in Puerto Rico and other U.S. jurisdictions. Grants from the Bureau of Democracy Human Rights and Labor fund a single, large study to assess impacts, identify service gaps, and recommend improved support systems.

The CDC's NCIPC invites research proposals to evaluate innovative approaches for preventing firearm-related violence and injuries. This initiative emphasizes the importance of data-driven solutions without infringing on legal firearm ownership rights. Funding options are available for existing data evaluations (up to $350,000/year for 2 years) or new data collection (up to $650,000/year for 3 years). Target areas include mass shootings, suicides, and crime prevention across various demographics and settings.

The FY26 Community Policing Development program, administered by the U.S. Department of Justice's COPS Office, aims to enhance community policing through innovative strategies and resources. Funding is available for developing law enforcement products that promote effective practices and training programs to ensure law enforcement agencies can implement common sense policing. The initiative supports a safe environment by advancing crime prevention and improving community-police relationships, with applications due by August 31, 2026.

The OVW Fiscal Year 2026 Consolidated Grant Program aims to support community-based initiatives that assist children and youth impacted by domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. It also focuses on engaging men and youth in prevention efforts. Eligible applicants can develop or expand strategies for prevention, intervention, and treatment, addressing the needs of affected individuals aged 0-24. Applications are due by September 10, 2026.

About Us

Midlands Community Foundation (MCF) is here to serve and add value to donors’ philanthropic needs by providing them an opportunity to “invest in the power of community.” It is our goal to identify current and emerging issues, channel resources to address community needs, and help prepare for the future.

MCF Mission

The mission of Midlands Community Foundation is to be a catalyst for lasting impact in Sarpy and Cass counties and to give opportunities to organizations and individuals to pursue their charitable goals.

Scholarships Through MCF

Midlands Community Foundation is committed to the futures of communities in Sarpy and Cass Counties, and across the country. Supporting higher education of students is a direct investment in the futures of these communities.

Sarpy County Bar Association Scholarship Application Guidelines

The Sarpy County Bar Association Scholarship Fund makes this scholarship available to students studying criminal justice, criminology, sociology, psychology, or pre-law

The Fund shall annually distribute two (2) scholarships in the total amount of $1,500, split evenly per semester (i.e., $750 Fall Semester, and $750 Spring/Semester).

The DOJ FY 2026 NIBIN Modernization Program aims to enhance the capabilities of law enforcement agencies by providing funding for modern ballistic imaging equipment. This initiative, authorized under Public Law 119-21, seeks to improve crime gun intelligence and support investigations into crimes involving illegal aliens and transnational criminal organizations. With a focus on upgrading outdated technology at 194 sites, this program ensures comprehensive maintenance and operational efficiency for five years, ultimately contributing to safer communities.

The OVW Fiscal Year 2026 Grants to Indian Tribal Governments Program is designed to empower Tribal governments in enhancing their criminal justice response to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, sex trafficking, and stalking. This initiative, funded by the US DOJ's Office on Violence Against Women, aims to support Tribal communities in creating safer environments through targeted funding and resources. Applications must be submitted by September 3, 2026, at 4:59 pm ET.

The OVW Fiscal Year 2026 Tribal Sexual Assault Services Program provides crucial support to Indian Tribes and organizations in addressing sexual assault through intervention and advocacy. This program aims to assist victims of all ages, including youth and children, as well as their families and those affected by the trauma, except for perpetrators. Applications must be submitted by September 3, 2026, at 4:59 PM ET in JustGrants.

The U.S. Department of Justice is inviting applications for the FY26 Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation (CTAS) to streamline the grant process for federally recognized tribes. This initiative combines various competitive funding opportunities into a single application, allowing tribes to address public safety and victimization comprehensively. Eligible areas include criminal justice, substance use, and support for victims of domestic violence. The deadline for applications is October 22, 2026.

State governments in Puerto Rico and nationwide can apply for US $108,282 - US $14,672,296 to create or enhance crisis intervention court proceedings and related programs. The Bureau of Justice Assistance provides funding for ERPO initiatives, mental health, drug, and veterans treatment courts that address crime, public safety, and crisis intervention needs.

Graduating high school seniors pursuing four-year degrees in education, criminal justice or law enforcement, or healthcare-related fields may be eligible for the Ben & Rose Schwabenbauer Educational Scholarship, supporting students from specific high schools. Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation funds students interested in crime and justice careers, which may appeal to those from Puerto Rico seeking similar opportunities elsewhere.

Herold and Retta Reuss Public Safety Scholarship

Applicants must demonstrate the drive and ability to be successful in pursuing a college education and/or a certification process in the fields aforementioned. Financial information is requested, but not necessarily a determining factor. Students who receive this scholarship may apply for further support in subsequent years.

Students interested in becoming attorneys and pursuing law-related higher education may be eligible for this scholarship, which supports legal education and awareness. With a mission to strengthen legal understanding, Community Foundation for Muskegon County provides support that may benefit those in Puerto Rico focused on crime and justice careers and studies.

Research institutions and organizations conducting crime and justice studies can receive US $75,000 - US $400,000 to evaluate citizen security, crime prevention, and justice system reforms through Innovations for Poverty Action. This international program supports impact evaluations, pilots, and infrastructure projects; Puerto Rico-focused researchers may be eligible if working in the listed countries or comparative contexts.

Organizations and individuals with proven crime and justice innovations in the U.S., including Puerto Rico, can receive US $15,000 awards supporting successful programs and reforms. Grants from the Foundation for Improvement of Justice help recognize work in crime prevention, legal reform, child protection, victims’ rights, and related improvements to criminal and civil justice systems.