BJA FY 2026 Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crimes Act Program

The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) is offering a grant under the Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crimes Act to fund state, local, and tribal law‑enforcement and prosecution agencies for the investigation and prosecution of civil‑rights‑related criminal offenses that occurred on or before December 31 , 1979 and resulted in a death. The program aims to resolve cold cases, provide resources for forensic analysis, witness outreach, and legal support, and ultimately bring justice to victims and their families. • Eligible applicants: state, local, tribal law‑enforcement agencies and local or state prosecutors. • Funding ceiling per award: up to $645,000; no minimum amount. • Application window: September 29 – November 13 2026. • Expected number of awards: approximately 10 projects. • Purpose: support investigative, forensic, and prosecutorial activities for historic civil‑rights murders. • Funding instrument: grant (CFDA 16.031 – Emmett Till Cold Case Investigations Program).