This grant is for research and evaluation projects that focus on using drones as first responders in law enforcement. The goal is to study how drones can help with tasks like fighting crime and immigration enforcement. The grant encourages partnerships between researchers and law enforcement agencies to test and evaluate drone programs. Agencies involved can keep the drones after the study.
Who it's for: This grant is for a wide range of applicants, including government entities, educational institutions, nonprofits, for-profit organizations, and individuals interested in researching the use of drones in law enforcement.
More details
Likely Disqualifiers
- Lack of collaboration with a law enforcement agency
- Proposals not focused on drones as first responders
- Applications submitted after the deadline
- Incomplete application packages
- Lack of a clear evaluation plan
What You May Need
- Detailed project proposal
- Partnership agreement with a law enforcement agency
- Budget plan
- Evaluation methodology
- Organizational documents (e.g., proof of nonprofit status)
- Resumes of key personnel
- Letters of support
- DUNS number
- SAM registration
Cautions
- Ensure collaboration with law enforcement is well-documented
- Focus on actionable research outcomes
- Be aware of the tight application timeline
- Ensure compliance with all federal regulations
- Budget must align with project goals
Generated from official source details for readability
Eligibility
Eligible Applicant Types
Additional Criteria
Eligible applicants include special district governments, independent school districts, nonprofits with or without 501(c)(3) status, other Native American tribal organizations, public and state institutions of higher education, private institutions of higher education, unrestricted applicants, state governments, for-profit organizations, county governments, federally recognized Indian tribal governments, individuals, and city or township governments.
Overview
This grant is for a wide range of applicants, including government entities, educational institutions, nonprofits, for-profit organizations, and individuals interested in researching the use of drones in law enforcement.
Likely Disqualifiers
- Lack of collaboration with a law enforcement agency
- Proposals not focused on drones as first responders
- Applications submitted after the deadline
- Incomplete application packages
- Lack of a clear evaluation plan
Use of Funds
Funds can be used to purchase drone technology for research, conduct evaluations, and support collaborations between researchers and law enforcement agencies. At the end of the study, law enforcement agencies may keep the drones.
Total Program Funding
$3,500,000
Expected Awards
6
Cost Sharing
Not Required
Important Dates
- Posted
- Oct 22, 2026
- Deadline
- Nov 30, 2026(38 days)
Application Checklist
- Review NOFO for specific requirements
- Develop a detailed project proposal
- Secure a partnership with a law enforcement agency
- Prepare a budget and evaluation plan
- Gather organizational documents
- Register with SAM and obtain a DUNS number
- Submit application by the deadline