Best Crime Grants in Minnesota

Minnesota 501(c)(3) public charities working on community and public safety, crime prevention, or victim services can access funding through Union Pacific Foundation’s Community Ties Local Grants. Awards of US $5,000 - US $30,000 support direct services and capacity-building within Union Pacific–served communities, with emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion for underrepresented populations.

The Department of Children, Youth, and Families was established to bring together programs to better serve children, youth, and families. 

RFP to Promote Restorative Practice Programs

The department, through its Office of Restorative Practice Division, is seeking to promote initiatives statewide that create new restorative practice programs or have current programs in place. 

The activities funded through this RFP are intended to benefit individuals (youth and adults) and communities impacted by harm, including those who have caused harm, those who have been harmed, their families, and the broader communities connected to them. This includes work across a range of systems, including pretrial diversion programs, delinquency and criminal justice, child welfare, education, and community violence prevention. 

Organizations working on crime and justice initiatives in Minnesota can seek support for gun violence prevention, justice reform, and community-based violence intervention projects. Grants from The Joyce Foundation help advance research, policy advocacy, pilot initiatives, and racial equity-focused reforms that impact gun violence and public safety across the Great Lakes region.

The BJA FY 2026 Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Use Program (COSSUP) Training and Technical Assistance (TTA) aims to enhance the capacity of grantees through dedicated training. It addresses critical operational issues related to overdose responses, targeting illicit opioids and stimulants. The program underscores the U.S. Department of Justice's commitment to public safety, law enforcement support, and the fight against substance misuse. Applications are due by November 9, 2026.

The BJA FY 2026 Adult Treatment Court Program aims to enhance Adult Treatment Court operations, focusing on preventing overdoses and reducing substance use among high-risk adults in the criminal justice system. The program integrates judicial supervision, substance use disorder treatment, and recovery support services to improve outcomes for participants. This funding opportunity from the U.S. Department of Justice highlights the commitment to public safety and addressing critical issues like the opioid crisis.

The BJA FY 2026 DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR)—Formula Grants Program aims to support states and local governments in enhancing their DNA analysis capabilities. By providing funding for existing crime laboratories, this initiative seeks to increase the processing capacity for DNA samples, thereby reducing the backlog in forensic DNA analysis and ensuring timely entry into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS). Applications are due by November 5, 2026.

The BJA FY 2026 Upholding the Rule of Law and Preventing Wrongful Convictions Program aims to enhance justice by strengthening the capacity of entities that review wrongful convictions. By supporting partnerships among criminal justice and victims' services, the program seeks to effectively manage post-conviction claims of innocence and prevent future errors. This initiative will help identify actual perpetrators and ensure justice for victims, contributing to public safety and the integrity of the legal system.

The BJA FY 2026 Capital Case Litigation Initiative aims to enhance legal representation in state capital cases. By providing essential funding, this initiative supports both prosecutors and defense attorneys to ensure equitable legal processes for indigent defendants. The U.S. Department of Justice emphasizes the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting citizens' rights. Applications are due by November 5, 2026, at 8:59 p.m. ET, marking a critical opportunity for improvement in capital case litigation.

The BJA FY 2026 Second Chance Act Community-based Reentry Program aims to support community organizations and tribal governments in providing essential mentoring and transitional services for individuals returning from correctional facilities. This initiative targets those assessed as moderate to high risk for recidivism, addressing their needs both pre-and post-release. By fostering successful reintegration into society, the program contributes to public safety and reduces recidivism rates, aligning with the mission of the U.S. Department of Justice.

The Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT) program aims to support adults with serious mental illness (SMI) by facilitating community-based treatment. Funded by the US HHS's Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the initiative encourages collaboration with civil courts and community partners. Recipients will implement AOT to ensure that eligible individuals receive necessary support, thereby enhancing their mental health outcomes and promoting recovery.

The BJA FY 2026 Byrne State Crisis Intervention Formula Program aims to enhance state crisis intervention court proceedings and related initiatives. Funded by the U.S. Department of Justice, the program focuses on addressing public safety challenges such as violent crime, human trafficking, and the opioid crisis. Grants will support the development of mental health courts, drug courts, and extreme risk protection order programs, providing critical resources to improve community safety and support law enforcement efforts.

The BJA FY 2026 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program offers formula funding to support local governments in enhancing public safety. This grant aids in hiring personnel, purchasing essential equipment, and providing training and technical assistance to address crime and safety challenges. Applicants are encouraged to verify their eligibility for direct JAG funding from BJA before submitting their applications. The deadline for full applications is October 16, 2026, at 8:59 p.m. ET.

The BJA FY 2026 Crisis Response Training Program aims to enhance public safety and law enforcement effectiveness by providing critical training for officers in responding to individuals experiencing behavioral health crises. This funding opportunity supports state, local, and tribal governments in developing programs to improve responses to those with mental health conditions, intellectual disabilities, and other challenges. By equipping officers with essential skills and strategies, the program seeks to ensure safer interventions and better outcomes in crisis situations.

The OVC FY 2026 grant aims to improve outcomes for child and youth victims of human trafficking by integrating policies at state and Tribal levels. This funding opportunity focuses on developing strategic plans to address the challenges faced by minor victims, enhance coordination among systems like child welfare and juvenile justice, and ensure effective identification and prosecution of traffickers. By fostering multidisciplinary approaches, the program seeks to provide comprehensive support and services to these vulnerable populations.

The OVW Fiscal Year 2026 Electronic Service Protection Order Court Pilot Program supports state and Tribal courts in implementing electronic communication methods for serving protection orders. This initiative, part of the Violence Against Women Act, aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of protection order enforcement, ensuring safety for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. Applications are due by October 8, 2026, at 4:59 pm through JustGrants.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Chatlos Foundation provides grants to nonprofit organizations in the U.S. and globally, focusing on Bible colleges, religious causes, liberal arts colleges, medical concerns, and social issues. Grants typically range from $2,000 to $20,000, depending on the category. The Foundation prioritizes program support and typically funds requests under $10,000. Eligible organizations must be U.S.-based, tax-exempt for at least two years, and aligned with the Foundation's mission, ensuring that funded projects achieve independence.

The OJJDP FY 2026 Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program Support aims to fortify a national network of 61 multiagency task forces dedicated to combating child sexual exploitation facilitated by technology. This funding opportunity enhances training, prevention, and outreach efforts while fostering collaboration among law enforcement entities. Applications are due in JustGrants by November 9, 2026, at 8:59 p.m. ET, ensuring timely support for critical initiatives to protect children.

The OJJDP FY 2026 Second Chance Act Youth Reentry Program aims to provide critical support for moderate- to high-risk youth transitioning back into their communities after confinement. This funding opportunity encourages collaboration among state agencies, local governments, Tribes, and community organizations to deliver comprehensive reentry services and assist youth in overcoming challenges related to recidivism. Applications are due by November 9, 2026, at 8:59 p.m. ET.

The BJA FY 2026 Tribal Justice Training and Technical Assistance Program aims to enhance Tribal justice systems through specialized technical support. This funding opportunity addresses critical issues such as violent crime and substance-use related crime, including opioids. By assisting federally recognized Indian Tribes, the program promotes the development of sustainable legal and corrections infrastructure while fostering collaboration with federal, state, and local partners. Applications are due by October 28, 2026, at 8:59 p.m. ET.

The BJA FY 2026 John R. Justice Formula Grant Program offers loan repayment assistance to local and state prosecutors and public defenders who commit to three years of service. Administered by state agencies, this program aims to alleviate the financial burden on legal professionals dedicated to public service. Applications are due by November 10, 2026, providing a crucial opportunity for eligible beneficiaries to secure support for their educational loans.

The DOJ FY 2026 ANGEL Grant Program aims to enhance public safety by funding state, local, and tribal government initiatives to combat violent crime committed by criminal illegal aliens. This program supports hiring law enforcement personnel, retaining critical staff, and acquiring advanced technology. The objective is to prevent harm to American citizens and support Homeland Security Task Force operations. Applications must be submitted by October 27, 2026, to qualify for funding.

The OJP FY 2026 Special Attorneys Program provides funding for state, local, Tribal, and territorial prosecuting agencies to hire qualified prosecutors and support staff. These professionals will work under the National Fraud Enforcement Division to investigate and prosecute crimes committed by criminal aliens, as well as drug and human trafficking cases. This initiative aims to enhance law enforcement capabilities, improve intergovernmental coordination, and strengthen the prosecution of fraud and other serious crimes.

The BJA FY 2026 DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Competitive Grants Program aims to enhance the capacity of state and local government crime laboratories for processing DNA samples. This program focuses on using DNA technology to improve forensic efficiency and implement Rapid DNA in booking stations. It targets jurisdictions with operational challenges, ensuring fair access to funding. Eligible agencies can apply for both competitive and formula CEBR funding.