LAKEWOOD - Governor Jared Polis and the Colorado Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ) announced the availability of $3.3 million in funding through the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program. This program is designed to support state and local initiatives that prevent and reduce crime, enhance public safety, and advance a fair and effective criminal justice system.
Application Deadline: March 10, 2025, by 5:00 PM MST
Funding Period: October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2026
Application Support: The DCJ team is scheduled to host a virtual training on navigating the online application process on Thursday, January 9, 2025, from 1:00–2:25 PM MST via Zoom. A recording will be available for those unable to attend.
“I’m excited to see this funding make our communities safer. To make Colorado safer I strongly support efforts around Colorado to prevent and reduce crime like this investment will do. These investments will build on our work to crack down on crime and make Colorado one of the ten safest states,” said Governor Jared Polis.
The Governor’s proposed budget for FY 2025-26 prioritizes making Colorado a Top Ten Safest State through investments to reduce crime through a variety of strategies, ranging from support for law enforcement to upstream community-based violence prevention work. These proposals include $15.0 million to support and sustain Colorado’s emergency operational communications dispatching system; $7.6 million to convert and increase the number of beds in the Division of Youth Services; $4.4 million for grants to local governments and law enforcement entities to make physical infrastructure and security improvements; $3.0 million in grants to community-based organizations to reduce youth delinquency; and $0.9 million for legislative changes to make Colorado safer.
The JAG Program offers critical support for state and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations engaged in public safety efforts. From tackling substance use and behavioral health challenges to advancing innovative reentry programs, this funding equips communities with the tools they need to create lasting change.
"These grants are a vital tool in our commitment to making Colorado communities safer, stronger, and more inclusive,” said Matthew Lunn, director of the Colorado Division of Criminal Justice. “By supporting local leaders and organizations, we can address critical challenges and ensure every Coloradan has the opportunity to thrive."
Funding Focus Areas:
JAG funds can be used for programs and initiatives in the following areas:
Law enforcement
Prosecution, Courts, and Indigent Defense
Prevention and Education
Corrections and Community Corrections
Drug Treatment and Drug Enforcement
Planning, Evaluation, Technology Improvement
Crime Victims and Witness Protection
Mental Health Programs
Implementation of State Crisis Intervention Court Proceedings and Related Programs or Initiatives
“JAG funding represents an investment in public safety that pays dividends for all Coloradans. By equipping law enforcement with the tools they need and supporting programs that address the root causes of crime, we’re building stronger, more resilient communities," said Chief Bob Dalley, DeBeque Marshal. "Federal legislators play a vital role in sustaining this crucial program, and I encourage them to continue their support for the safety and well-being of every resident in our state and ensuring that no community is left behind in the effort to build a safer Colorado.”
The JAG Program is emphasizing projects that:
Advance equity and inclusion by addressing the needs of underserved communities.
Expand behavioral health resources to prevent crime related to mental health and substance use.
Strengthen community-based violence intervention strategies, such as hospital-based violence programs and credible messenger initiatives.
Promote reentry success for individuals transitioning from incarceration back into their communities.
Eligible applicants include municipalities, counties, tribal governments, and nonprofits engaged in public safety or criminal justice efforts.
In 2024, the Governor-Appointed Justice Assistance Grant Board approved 48 projects for funding totaling $3,605,821. Of these, three are state level projects totaling $298,592. The remaining 45 projects totaling $3,307,229, awarded to local projects.
Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the DCJ’s JAG Program web page for detailed application instructions, program requirements, and helpful resources.
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