NIJ FY 2026 Research and Evaluation on Drones as First Responders
Key Information
Due Date: November 30, 2026
Agency: United States Department of Justice
Source: Federal
Website: View Website
Funding Categories:
Funding Amount: $3,500,000
Funding Type: Grant
Match Required: No
Status: Posted
For assistance with the requirements of this funding opportunity, please contact OJP Response Center at Phone: 800-851-3420 or 202-353-5556 (TTY for hearing-impaired callers only) or Email: OJP.ResponseCenter@usdoj.gov. Hours of operation are: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. ET, Monday–Friday. OJP.ResponseCenter@usdoj.gov OJP.ResponseCenter@usdoj.gov
Overview
The goal of this NOFO is to provide actionable information about police implementation of small drones through a collaboration between law enforcement agencies and researchers. NIJ welcomes research and evaluation of drones as first responders (DFR) capabilities, including evaluation of existing capabilities or pilot programs at police departments already using DFR, as well as implementation of new pilot programs or demonstrations. NIJ expects research entities and law enforcement agencies to collaborate on implementing DFR and evaluating operational performance. Law enforcement agencies participating in evaluations will have the option to retain any DFR technology purchased through the NOFO at the study’s conclusion.
Additional Info
Posted Date: October 22, 2026
Application Due Date: November 30, 2026
Estimated Award Date: Not Specified
Eligible Applicants:
- Small businesses
- Independent school districts
- Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education
- City or township governments
- Public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities
- Special district governments
- Private institutions of higher education
- State governments
- Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education
- Public and State controlled institutions of higher education
- Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments)
- Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized)
- Others
- For profit organizations other than small businesses
- County governments
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