2026 Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes (SCAHC) Grant Program

Background
The New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) is launching the 2026 Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes (SCAHC) Grant Program aimed at funding safety and security projects for nonprofit organizations that are at risk of hate crimes due to their ideology, beliefs, or mission.

The program anticipates funding between $35 million and $70 million to support approximately 140-280 projects across New York State. Each eligible organization can apply for up to $250,000 for physical and/or cybersecurity enhancements.

Work Details
Organizations may submit applications for various physical security enhancements such as locks, alarm systems, perimeter lighting, camera-based security systems, access control systems, perimeter fencing, blast-resistant film for windows, panic button systems, and public address systems.

Cybersecurity enhancements may include software packages like firewalls and malware protection, network equipment like servers, encryption software, intrusion detection systems, and training costs related to cybersecurity awareness. All projects must be new or enhance previously funded projects and must not duplicate any prior funding sources.

Period of Performance
The anticipated contract period for this grant opportunity is 24 months with a tentative start date of January 1, 2027.

Place of Performance
The geographic location for the performance of this contract will be throughout New York State where the nonprofit organizations are situated.

Bidder Requirements
Applicants must be nonprofit organizations recognized under IRS §501(c)(3) or self-certified as such. They must be pre-qualified in the New York Statewide Financial System (SFS) at the time of application. Additionally, there are Minority/Women Business Enterprise (MWBE) goals with a 25% MBE goal and a 5% WBE goal applicable to all contracts.