Criminal justice agencies have plenty of reasons to modernize aging information systems. But what often stands in their way is cost.
Federal funding is available, but there’s no single grant dedicated specifically to CJIS (Criminal Justice Information Services) modernization. Instead, the dollars are spread across criminal justice, technology and cybersecurity programs with different priorities and eligibility requirements.
That makes the way agencies define their modernization projects especially important. CJIS modernization can take many forms, from replacing aging document repositories and automating case workflows to strengthening records governance, security and continuity of operations. These investments can give investigators faster access to records, improve CJIS audit readiness and help authorized justice partners share information more securely.
Connecting technology investments to outcomes like these can help agencies identify funding programs that align with what they want to achieve.
Broad CJIS Modernization: Byrne JAG
The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (Byrne JAG) Program is one of the broadest funding opportunities for CJIS modernization. Its expansive scope makes it a potential funding source for CJIS modernization products involving secure records management, digital case files, automated workflows and information sharing.
Eligible cities and counties receive JAG awards directly from the U.S. Department of Justice, while funding also reaches state and local governments through state-administered programs. This gives agencies multiple avenues to explore for CJIS modernization projects.
Improving Criminal Justice Records with NCHIP and NARIP
Projects focused on criminal history information have more targeted options.
The National Criminal History Improvement Program (NCHIP) supports improvements to criminal history records and disposition reporting, as well as information sharing and integration among courts, prosecutors and law enforcement.
Similar in scope is the NICS Act Record Improvement Program (NARIP), which focuses on records supporting the National Instant Criminal Background Check System. Eligible projects can include protection order automation, court disposition reporting, improvements to record completeness and workflow automation.
Both programs are generally administered at the state level, so municipal agencies typically participate through statewide initiatives.
Supporting Pilots and Technology Projects with COPS Funding
For those looking to test a new approach, the Community Policing Development Microgrants Program can support demonstration and pilot projects. Current FY2026 awards provide up to $200,000 for potential initiatives supporting digital investigative case management, secure collaboration with prosecutors, cybercrime documentation or CJIS-secure information sharing.
The COPS Technology and Equipment Program provides another option for law enforcement technology projects. Eligible investments range from secure cloud modernization to regional information sharing and disaster recovery. Funding comes through Congressionally Directed Spending, so agencies must work with their Congressional delegation during the appropriations process.
Connecting CJIS Modernization to Cybersecurity
Some CJIS modernization projects may fall under the umbrella of broader cybersecurity funding.
The State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program supports initiatives such as secure cloud migration, identity management and disaster recovery. Funding can also extend to secure storage and audit capabilities when the work aligns with a state’s approved cybersecurity plan. For criminal justice agencies, these priorities translate into stronger access controls and clear audit histories, as well as maintaining reliable access to critical information during disruptions.
The Homeland Security Grant Program offers another potential funding source, particularly for projects that strengthen regional intelligence sharing or improve the security and availability of critical information. Continuity-of-operations investments may also qualify.
More Specialized Funding Opportunities
Depending on the project, organizations can also explore programs aimed at specific areas of the criminal justice system.
- Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants: Forensic operations, including digital records, evidence documentation and audit history.
- Office on Violence Against Women funding: Protection orders, victim services and confidential information management.
- Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation and Tribal Access Program: Tribal justice organizations and initiatives involving secure records and criminal justice information.
- State Justice Institute grants: Court modernization planning, process redesign and information governance planning.
Connecting Funding to CJIS Modernization
Funding opportunities and eligibility evolve from one cycle to the next. Agencies can navigate these changing opportunities more effectively by first defining what they want to improve.
Laserfiche supports these efforts by helping organizations securely manage criminal justice records, automate workflows, govern access and maintain audit histories. Together, these capabilities provide an information foundation for technology investments tied to public safety and operational goals.
Modernization is the project, but the outcome is what ultimately makes the case for funding.
