Opportunity Information: Apply for O BJA 2023 171565
The BJA FY 23 National Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) is a discretionary grant program run by the Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), under CFDA 16.833, focused on helping jurisdictions take concrete, victim-centered steps to address sexual assault kits (SAKs) that have not moved forward in the testing and investigative process. The opportunity is framed within DOJ and OJP priorities that emphasize civil rights and racial equity, increased access to justice, stronger support for victims and people impacted by the justice system, improved community safety, and stronger trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve. In practical terms, the program is designed to help agencies and multidisciplinary partners convert previously stalled sexual assault evidence into actionable investigative leads, stronger prosecutions when appropriate, and improved long-term system practices around sexual assault response.
A central purpose of SAKI is to provide resources to jurisdictions, including rural and tribal communities, to identify and address sexual assault kits in their custody that have not been submitted to a forensic laboratory for testing using CODIS-eligible DNA methodologies. The emphasis here is on kits that are sitting unsubmitted rather than kits already in a crime lab queue. SAKI funding supports the work needed to get those unsubmitted kits properly processed, tracked, and sent for testing so that DNA profiles, when developed, can be uploaded and searched through the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) to generate hits that may connect a suspect to a case, link multiple cases to the same perpetrator, or exclude individuals and clarify investigative direction.
Beyond testing, the program also targets the downstream work that must happen for testing to matter. It supports improvements in investigations and prosecutions connected to evidence and cases resulting from the SAK testing process, and it also allows work on other violent crime cold cases that may benefit from strengthened investigative capacity and coordination. This recognizes that testing alone does not resolve cases; agencies often need additional resources for follow-up interviews, case review, victim notification and engagement practices, detective and prosecutor time, and coordinated strategies that can move older cases forward in a way that is trauma-informed and consistent with due process.
Another priority area is helping sites collect DNA samples from qualifying individuals who, under applicable state law and based on the type and timing of the offense, should already have a DNA sample in CODIS but do not because a sample was never collected or never submitted for testing. This component aims to close gaps in required offender DNA collection and submission processes, which can directly affect CODIS effectiveness. When qualifying samples are missing, opportunities to generate investigative leads from crime scene evidence can be lost. SAKI funding can therefore support the operational work of identifying those qualifying individuals, collecting samples consistent with legal requirements, and ensuring the samples are properly submitted for analysis and entry where authorized.
Importantly, SAKI is not meant to fund routine crime lab backlogs for kits that have already been submitted to a forensic laboratory but are delayed longer than 30 days due to capacity constraints. The solicitation makes a clear distinction between unsubmitted kits (and certain other categories of untested evidence) versus laboratory capacity problems after submission. DOJ notes that a separate program exists to address lab backlogs and capacity, and it points applicants to BJA forensic science program resources for additional context.
In addition to unsubmitted SAKs, SAKI also covers partially tested SAKs (as defined by the program) and untested evidence associated with sexually motivated homicides. This broader scope reflects the reality that some kits may have undergone limited testing that did not include modern CODIS-eligible methods or did not fully develop the probative potential of the evidence. Similarly, evidence connected to sexually motivated homicides may benefit from the same structured approach to testing, investigation, and coordinated case review.
From an administrative and funding perspective, this is a grant opportunity with an award ceiling of $2,500,000, with BJA expecting to make about 33 awards. The opportunity number is O-BJA-2023-171565. The solicitation was created on February 6, 2023, with an original closing date of April 4, 2023. Eligible applicants include federally recognized Native American tribal governments, along with other entities as described in the solicitation's additional eligibility information. Overall, the program is structured to help jurisdictions build or strengthen a comprehensive response that moves untested sexual assault evidence into appropriate forensic testing, turns results into investigative and prosecutorial action when warranted, improves systems and coordination, and does so in a way that aligns with DOJ commitments to equity, victim support, and public trust.Apply for O BJA 2023 171565
- The Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance in the law, justice and legal services sector is offering a public funding opportunity titled "BJA FY 23 National Sexual Assault Kit Initiative" and is now available to receive applicants.
- Interested and eligible applicants and submit their applications by referencing the CFDA number(s): 16.833.
- This funding opportunity was created on Feb 06, 2023.
- Applicants must submit their applications by Apr 04, 2023. (Agency may still review applications by suitable applicants for the remaining/unused allocated funding in 2026.)
- Each selected applicant is eligible to receive up to $2,500,000.00 in funding.
- The number of recipients for this funding is limited to 33 candidate(s).
- Eligible applicants include: Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized), Others (see text field entitled Additional Information on Eligibility for clarification).
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FAQs: BJA FY 23 National Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI)
What is the BJA FY 23 National Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI)?
SAKI is a discretionary grant program from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Office of Justice Programs (OJP), Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), under CFDA 16.833. It is designed to help jurisdictions take concrete, victim-centered steps to address sexual assault kits (SAKs) that have not moved forward in the testing and investigative process.
What problem is SAKI intended to address?
SAKI focuses on sexual assault kits in a jurisdiction's custody that have not been submitted to a forensic laboratory for testing using CODIS-eligible DNA methodologies. The program is built around moving previously stalled sexual assault evidence toward testing and then using results to support investigations, prosecutions when appropriate, and stronger long-term sexual assault response practices.
What kinds of sexual assault kits are the main focus of this program?
The emphasis is on unsubmitted sexual assault kits (kits that are sitting in custody and have not been sent to a lab for CODIS-eligible DNA testing). This is distinct from kits that are already in a crime lab queue.
Does SAKI fund testing for kits that are already submitted to a lab but delayed?
No. SAKI is not meant to fund routine crime lab backlogs for kits that have already been submitted to a forensic laboratory but are delayed longer than 30 days due to capacity constraints. The solicitation distinguishes unsubmitted kits and certain other categories of untested evidence from laboratory capacity problems that occur after submission.
If SAKI does not fund routine lab backlogs, what does it support instead?
SAKI supports the work needed to identify unsubmitted kits, properly process and track them, and send them for testing so DNA profiles (when developed) can be searched in the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS). It also supports downstream work so that testing results translate into investigative leads, coordinated case actions, and improved system practices.
How does CODIS relate to this grant?
The program aims to help jurisdictions submit SAKs for CODIS-eligible DNA testing so resulting DNA profiles can be uploaded to and searched through CODIS. CODIS hits can potentially connect a suspect to a case, link multiple cases to the same perpetrator, or exclude individuals and help clarify investigative direction.
Does SAKI only pay for forensic testing?
No. The program explicitly recognizes that testing alone does not resolve cases. SAKI supports improvements in investigations and prosecutions connected to evidence and cases resulting from the SAK testing process, including coordination and practices needed to move older cases forward in a trauma-informed way consistent with due process.
What kinds of follow-up activities can SAKI support after testing?
Based on the solicitation description, SAKI supports downstream work such as follow-up interviews, case review, victim notification and engagement practices, detective and prosecutor time, and coordinated strategies that can move older cases forward.
Can SAKI funding be used for work beyond sexual assault kits?
Yes. The program supports improvements connected to cases resulting from SAK testing and also allows work on other violent crime cold cases that may benefit from strengthened investigative capacity and coordination.
Does SAKI address partially tested kits?
Yes. In addition to unsubmitted SAKs, SAKI covers partially tested SAKs as defined by the program, recognizing that some kits may have undergone limited testing that did not include modern CODIS-eligible methods or did not fully develop the probative potential of the evidence.
Does SAKI include evidence from sexually motivated homicides?
Yes. The program covers untested evidence associated with sexually motivated homicides, reflecting the idea that this type of evidence may benefit from a structured approach to testing, investigation, and coordinated case review.
What is the program's approach to victims?
The opportunity is framed as victim-centered and supports trauma-informed practices, including victim notification and engagement, while also emphasizing due process.
Does the solicitation mention broader DOJ/OJP priorities?
Yes. The opportunity is aligned with DOJ and OJP priorities emphasizing civil rights and racial equity, increased access to justice, stronger support for victims and people impacted by the justice system, improved community safety, and stronger trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
Does SAKI include a component related to offender DNA collection?
Yes. A priority area is collecting DNA samples from qualifying individuals who, under applicable state law and based on the type and timing of the offense, should already have a DNA sample in CODIS but do not because a sample was never collected or never submitted for testing.
Why does the grant focus on missing qualifying offender DNA samples?
When qualifying samples are missing, opportunities to generate investigative leads from crime scene evidence can be lost. This component aims to close gaps in required offender DNA collection and submission processes, which can directly affect CODIS effectiveness.
What does SAKI fund in relation to qualifying offender DNA samples?
SAKI funding can support identifying qualifying individuals, collecting samples consistent with legal requirements, and ensuring samples are properly submitted for analysis and entry where authorized.
Who is eligible to apply?
Eligible applicants include federally recognized Native American tribal governments, along with other entities as described in the solicitation's additional eligibility information.
Does the program specifically mention rural and tribal communities?
Yes. SAKI is intended to provide resources to jurisdictions, including rural and tribal communities, to identify and address unsubmitted sexual assault kits in their custody.
What is the award ceiling for this opportunity?
The award ceiling is $2,500,000.
How many awards does BJA expect to make?
BJA expects to make about 33 awards.
What is the opportunity number?
The opportunity number is O-BJA-2023-171565.
When was the solicitation created and when was it originally due?
The solicitation was created on February 6, 2023, with an original closing date of April 4, 2023.
How does SAKI define success in practical terms?
Practically, the program is designed to help agencies and multidisciplinary partners convert previously stalled sexual assault evidence into actionable investigative leads, stronger prosecutions when appropriate, and improved long-term system practices around sexual assault response.
Is this program intended to build a comprehensive response across multiple partners?
Yes. The program description emphasizes agencies and multidisciplinary partners, coordinated strategies, and system improvements intended to strengthen how jurisdictions move untested evidence through testing and into investigative and prosecutorial action when warranted.
Where does SAKI direct applicants if they need resources related to crime lab capacity and backlogs?
The solicitation notes that a separate program exists to address lab backlogs and capacity and points applicants to BJA forensic science program resources for additional context.
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| BJA FY 23 Body-worn Camera Policy and Implementation Program to Support Law Enforcement Agencies Apply for O BJA 2023 171562 Funding Number: O BJA 2023 171562 Agency: Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance Category: Law, Justice and Legal Services Funding Amount: $2,000,000 |
| BJA FY 23 Body-Worn Camera Policy and Implementation Program Training and Technical Assistance Apply for O BJA 2023 171561 Funding Number: O BJA 2023 171561 Agency: Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance Category: Law, Justice and Legal Services Funding Amount: $3,000,000 |
| BJA FY 23 Supporting Small, Rural, and Tribal Law Enforcement Agency Body-Worn Camera Policy and Implementation Program Apply for O BJA 2023 171563 Funding Number: O BJA 2023 171563 Agency: Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance Category: Law, Justice and Legal Services Funding Amount: $8,000,000 |
| BJA FY 23 Project Safe Neighborhoods Formula Grant Program Apply for O BJA 2023 171572 Funding Number: O BJA 2023 171572 Agency: Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance Category: Law, Justice and Legal Services Funding Amount: $2,000,000 |
| OVW Fiscal Year 2023 Sexual Assault Services Culturally Specific Program - Solicitation Apply for O OVW 2023 171485 Funding Number: O OVW 2023 171485 Agency: Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women Category: Law, Justice and Legal Services Funding Amount: $300,000 |
| BJA FY 23 Missing and Unidentified Human Remains (MUHR) Program Apply for O BJA 2023 171578 Funding Number: O BJA 2023 171578 Agency: Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance Category: Law, Justice and Legal Services Funding Amount: $1,000,000 |
| BJA FY 23 Prosecuting Cold Cases Using DNA Apply for O BJA 2023 171582 Funding Number: O BJA 2023 171582 Agency: Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance Category: Law, Justice and Legal Services Funding Amount: $500,000 |
| OVW Fiscal Year 2023 Special Tribal Criminal Jurisdiction Grant Program - Solicitation Apply for O OVW 2023 171481 Funding Number: O OVW 2023 171481 Agency: Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women Category: Law, Justice and Legal Services Funding Amount: $450,000 |
| OVW Fiscal Year 2023 Special Tribal Criminal Jurisdiction: Targeted Support for Alaska Native Tribes Special Initiative - Solicitation Apply for O OVW 2023 171476 Funding Number: O OVW 2023 171476 Agency: Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women Category: Law, Justice and Legal Services Funding Amount: $500,000 |
| OJJDP FY 2023 Invited to Apply - Byrne Discretionary Community Project Funding/Byrne Discretionary Grants Program Apply for O OJJDP 2023 171583 Funding Number: O OJJDP 2023 171583 Agency: Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice Delinquency Prevention Category: Law, Justice and Legal Services Funding Amount: $2,000,000 |
| OJJDP FY 2023 Enhancing Youth Defense Apply for O OJJDP 2023 171587 Funding Number: O OJJDP 2023 171587 Agency: Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice Delinquency Prevention Category: Law, Justice and Legal Services Funding Amount: $650,630 |
| OVW Fiscal Year 2023 Grants to Prevent and Respond to Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, Stalking, and Sex Trafficking Against Children and Youth Program - Solicitation Apply for O OVW 2023 171497 Funding Number: O OVW 2023 171497 Agency: Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women Category: Law, Justice and Legal Services Funding Amount: $500,000 |
| OVW Fiscal Year 2023 Grants to Engage Men and Boys as Allies in the Prevention of Violence Against Women and Girls Program - Solicitation Apply for O OVW 2023 171498 Funding Number: O OVW 2023 171498 Agency: Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women Category: Law, Justice and Legal Services Funding Amount: $350,000 |
| OJJDP FY 2023 Victims of Child Abuse Act Training and Technical Assistance for Child Abuse Professionals Apply for O OJJDP 2023 171600 Funding Number: O OJJDP 2023 171600 Agency: Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice Delinquency Prevention Category: Law, Justice and Legal Services Funding Amount: $3,000,000 |
| SMART FY 2023 Support for Adam Walsh Act Implementation Grant Program Apply for O SMART 2023 171598 Funding Number: O SMART 2023 171598 Agency: Department of Justice, SMART Category: Law, Justice and Legal Services Funding Amount: $400,000 |
| OJJDP FY 2023 Arts Programs for Justice-Involved Youth Apply for O OJJDP 2023 171601 Funding Number: O OJJDP 2023 171601 Agency: Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice Delinquency Prevention Category: Law, Justice and Legal Services Funding Amount: $50,000 |
| OJJDP FY 2023 Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program Support Apply for O OJJDP 2023 171603 Funding Number: O OJJDP 2023 171603 Agency: Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice Delinquency Prevention Category: Law, Justice and Legal Services Funding Amount: $2,000,000 |
| OVW Fiscal Year 2023 Transitional Housing Assistance Grants for Victims of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault and Stalking Solicitation Apply for O OVW 2023 171508 Funding Number: O OVW 2023 171508 Agency: Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women Category: Law, Justice and Legal Services Funding Amount: $550,000 |
| OJJDP FY 2023 Reducing Risk for Girls in the Juvenile Justice System Apply for O OJJDP 2023 171611 Funding Number: O OJJDP 2023 171611 Agency: Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice Delinquency Prevention Category: Law, Justice and Legal Services Funding Amount: $525,000 |
| OVW Fiscal Year 2023 Grants to Enhance Culturally Specific Services for Victims of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking Program - Solicitation Apply for O OVW 2023 171500 Funding Number: O OVW 2023 171500 Agency: Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women Category: Law, Justice and Legal Services Funding Amount: $450,000 |
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