The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) is accepting applications for the FY2025 Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Program, which aims to support law enforcement and prosecution agencies in addressing hate crimes. The program provides funding for activities such as training, public outreach, victim support, and improving hate crime reporting and investigations. A total of $13 million is available for this opportunity, with awards ranging from $150,000 to $2 million, depending on the category. The period of performance ranges from 24 to 48 months, starting October 1, 2025.

The program is divided into three categories. Category One supports city or county demonstration projects and has a ceiling of $725,000 per award. Category Two focuses on state or regional initiatives, with awards up to $2 million. Category Three is for strategic and resiliency planning, capped at $150,000. Eligible applicants include state, local, and tribal law enforcement and prosecution agencies, including tribal entities recognized by the Secretary of the Interior.

Applicants must follow a two-step application process: submission of the SF-424 form via Grants.gov by April 17, 2025, and the full application in JustGrants by April 24, 2025. The full application must include a project narrative, budget details, and supporting documents such as letters of support or Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs). All applicants must be registered in SAM.gov and have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). No cost-sharing or matching is required for this program.

The program's primary goals are to increase hate crime reporting and identification, support victim communities, and enhance collaboration between law enforcement and community organizations. Priority consideration will be given to applications that demonstrate partnerships with community-based organizations and address hate incidents on college campuses. Deliverables include the creation of task forces, public awareness campaigns, and strategic action plans.

Applications will be evaluated based on need, goals and objectives, project design, capabilities and competencies, and budget. Notifications of awards are expected by September 30, 2025. All awardees must comply with federal civil rights laws and reporting requirements, including quarterly financial and semi-annual performance reports.

For further details, applicants can refer to the full NOFO document or contact the BJA for assistance through the provided email and phone numbers.