The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) recently announced the FY 2026 Model Cities Initiative (MCI), a new competitive grant program that aims to help a small number of communities implement comprehensive public safety strategies. With approximately $300 million available and awards expected for only two to four jurisdictions, the initiative represents one of the largest place-based public safety investments in recent years.
For local governments, the program offers significant opportunities, but also raises important questions about implementation, sustainability and federal involvement.
A Broad Public Safety Investment
Unlike many federal grant programs that focus on a single issue, the Model Cities Initiative supports a wide range of public safety activities. Eligible uses include hiring law enforcement personnel, expanding prosecutorial and forensic capacity, investing in technology, supporting victims of crime, strengthening behavioral health services, reducing recidivism and addressing youth violence.
The initiative encourages communities to develop coordinated strategies that connect law enforcement, public health, corrections, victim services and community partners. Cities selected for funding will be expected to demonstrate measurable reductions in crime while serving as national models for public safety innovation.
Opportunities for Cities
The scale of potential funding stands out as one of the program’s most significant benefits. Because DOJ expects to select only a handful of jurisdictions, successful applicants could receive awards far larger than those available through many traditional grant programs.
The initiative also provides flexibility to address local needs. Cities may use funding to expand staffing, modernize technology systems, establish real-time crime centers, improve data analysis capabilities and strengthen partnerships across agencies and service providers.
For communities seeking to modernize public safety operations, the program offers support for technologies such as body-worn cameras, forensic tools, drones, artificial intelligence applications and other data-driven solutions.
Eligible applicants include local government entities serving a population of at least 100,000 residents. Applicants may be a single government entity or a collective entity acting as one governmental unit for a jurisdiction or contiguous region.
The program also does not require a local match, reducing financial barriers for participation.
Building Stronger Partnerships
The initiative places a strong emphasis on collaboration. Applicants must demonstrate support from local elected officials, law enforcement leaders, prosecutors, health and human services agencies, community supervision officials and governing bodies.
This requirement recognizes that many public safety challenges extend beyond policing alone. Communities often achieve the best outcomes when law enforcement, behavioral health providers, victim advocates and reentry organizations work together to address underlying drivers of crime and improve community safety.
Cities with established cross-sector partnerships may be particularly well-positioned to compete for funding.
Important Considerations
Local leaders should also carefully evaluate the program’s requirements before applying.
First, competition will be intense. With only two to four awards expected nationwide, many communities may invest significant time and resources into developing applications without receiving funding.
Second, DOJ will administer the initiative through cooperative agreements rather than traditional grants. This structure allows DOJ to maintain a more active role in project planning, implementation and oversight throughout the award period. Communities should be prepared for a higher level of federal engagement than they may experience under other grant programs.
Third, cities should consider long-term sustainability. Many eligible activities involve personnel, specialized units, technology systems and service programs that may require ongoing funding after the federal award period ends. Applicants should develop plans for sustaining successful initiatives beyond the life of the grant.
Finally, local governments should carefully review all eligibility requirements and certifications. The solicitation includes provisions related to federal immigration information-sharing requirements and identifies certain activities that are not eligible for funding. Municipal leaders should consult legal counsel and grant administrators to fully understand these requirements and their implications.
Looking Ahead
The Model Cities Initiative reflects a growing federal focus on place-based public safety strategies that combine enforcement, prevention, treatment and accountability. By bringing together investments in law enforcement, technology, behavioral health, victim services and reentry programs, the initiative seeks to create models that other communities can adapt and replicate.
For local governments, the program offers a rare opportunity to secure substantial federal resources for public safety priorities. At the same time, cities must carefully assess whether the initiative’s requirements, federal oversight structure and long-term commitments align with local goals and capacity.
NLC is reviewing the Model Cities Initiative and engaging with DOJ to better understand the program’s requirements, implementation framework and potential implications for local governments. We will continue to share information and resources with municipal leaders as additional guidance becomes available and the application process moves forward.
Learn More about NLC’s Public Safety Work
NLC’s Public Safety & Crime Prevention Federal Advocacy Committee is responsible for developing NLC’s policy positions and includes local elected officials and city staff from NLC member cities and towns across the country who are committed to discussing and influencing federal policy.
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