$3M NIJ FY25 AI and Emerging Technology Research Grant
- Ty Boone
- Jun 12
- 2 min read
The National Institute of Justice has opened two FY25 funding opportunities focused specifically on technology and artificial intelligence in criminal justice settings. Both programs use a multi-step application process that begins with a concept paper, and full applications are extended only to organizations invited by NIJ after concept paper review.
This is not a standard open competition. Organizations pursuing either of these grants need a strong research design, documented technology implementation experience, and in most cases an academic or research institution partner.
For established nonprofits operating at the intersection of technology and justice, this is a rare federal signal that AI and emerging technology in public safety is a priority funding area worth building toward even if your organization is not ready to apply in this cycle.
Grant Breakdown
Supports research evaluating the use of artificial intelligence across criminal justice settings including policing, corrections, courts, and public safety applications. Multidisciplinary research teams are strongly encouraged. This is a concept paper first process — do not submit a full application unless invited by NIJ.
Grants.gov Concept Paper Deadline: June 15, 2026
Supports research and evaluation of emerging technology implementation in law enforcement, including operational impacts, staffing and training considerations, communications infrastructure, public safety outcomes, and budget implications. Same concept paper first process applies.
Grants.gov Concept Paper Deadline: June 15, 2026
Both programs require Grants.gov SF-424 and concept paper submission by June 15. JustGrants verification follows the day after. Full applications are by invitation only. NIJ staff cannot discuss individual applications with prospective applicants. Direct questions to the OJP Response Center at 800-851-3420 or OJP.ResponseCenter@usdoj.gov.
Federal investment in AI and technology research for criminal justice is growing, and the organizations positioned to benefit are those building the research partnerships, data infrastructure, and institutional relationships now.
If your organization is operating in this space and is not sure how to build toward federal research funding competitiveness, that strategic planning work is exactly what we support.
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