NIJ FY 2026 Research and Evaluation on Drones as First Responders

This Funding Opportunity Announcement (NOFO) from the National Institute of Justice seeks competitive grant proposals to conduct rigorous research and evaluation of drone technology used as first‑responder tools by law‑enforcement agencies. The work includes assessing existing drone programs, designing and implementing new pilot projects, and measuring operational performance against objectives such as violent‑crime reduction, immigration enforcement support, and overall public‑safety impact. Collaborations between research institutions and participating police departments are required, and law‑enforcement partners may retain any purchased drone equipment after the study. Up to six awards will be made, with a total estimated funding ceiling of $3.5 million. • Target audience: universities, research institutes, nonprofits, state/local governments, for‑profit firms, and tribal entities. • Funding instrument: Grant (CFDA 16.560). • Estimated total award ceiling: $3,500,000; average award ≈ $580,000. • Application window: 22 Oct 2026 – 30 Nov 2026. • Required collaboration between researchers and law‑enforcement agencies. • Deliverables: evaluation reports, data sets, policy recommendations, and potential technology hand‑over.