The Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) of the U.S. Department of State is announcing funding opportunities for the Law Enforcement Critical Skills Training for Bosnia and Herzegovina program. This initiative aims to address critical gaps in law enforcement training and capacity in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) by delivering six specialized training courses over two years. These courses include active threat/active shooter response, cybercrime investigations, narcotics investigations, criminal intelligence and data analysis, corruption and financial crimes investigations, and digital forensics. The program seeks to enhance the competency, efficiency, and professionalism of BiH law enforcement agencies while building skills necessary to respond to evolving security threats.

The project focuses on addressing a lack of ongoing training for law enforcement personnel in BiH following their basic academy education. It also aims to address demographic challenges, including a wave of retirements among officers hired after the war. The primary goals of the program are to increase skills in responding to active threats, investigating cybercrimes and narcotics-related offenses, enhancing criminal intelligence gathering, tackling corruption and financial crimes, and improving digital forensic capabilities. Each training course is designed to address specific skill gaps, with objectives tied to measurable outcomes, such as improved evidence collection for court submissions and enhanced data analysis skills.

The anticipated funding for the program is $430,000, with awards ranging between $375,000 and $430,000. Two awards are expected to be issued under this cooperative agreement. The project implementation period is 24 months, starting around March 2025, with the potential for an extension based on performance, funding availability, and evolving program needs. Eligible applicants include U.S.-based and foreign-based non-profits, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and educational institutions. Public International Organizations (PIOs) and for-profit entities are not eligible to apply. While cost-sharing is encouraged, it is not mandatory.

Applications must include a detailed proposal narrative, a performance monitoring plan, a project risk analysis, and a budget with a corresponding budget narrative. The proposal should demonstrate an understanding of the training needs in BiH, outline a feasible implementation plan, address gender equity and inclusivity, and include sustainability and risk mitigation strategies. Applicants must also provide information about key personnel, organizational experience, and any planned sub-recipient partnerships. Proposals will be evaluated based on technical merit, institutional capacity, program monitoring and risk assessment, and cost-effectiveness.

Applications must be submitted via Grants.gov by February 2, 2025, at 11:59 PM EST. Key dates include the question submission deadline on January 2, 2025. Applicants are required to register with SAM.gov, obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), and ensure compliance with federal grant application regulations. INL will review submissions through a merit-based evaluation process, with successful applicants notified via email. The awarded organizations must adhere to reporting requirements, including financial and performance monitoring reports, and comply with U.S. laws and regulations governing federal awards.

This program represents a significant investment in strengthening the capacity of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s law enforcement agencies, fostering improved public confidence, and addressing emerging threats in a sustainable and inclusive manner.