U.S. Department of Justice OMB No. 1121-0329

Office of Justice Programs 

National Institute of Justice 

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Office of Justice Programs (OJP), National Institute of 

Justice (NIJ) is seeking applications for funding under the Using DNA Technology to Identify the 

Missing program. This program furthers the Department’s mission by offering assistance in 

performing DNA analysis on unidentified human remains and family reference samples to 

support the efforts of States and units of local government to identify missing persons. 

Using DNA Technology to Identify the 

Missing 

Eligibility 

In general, NIJ is authorized to make grants to, or enter into contracts or cooperative 

agreements with, States (including territories), local governments (including federally recognized 

Indian tribal governments as determined by the Secretary of the Interior), nonprofit and for-profit 

organizations (including tribal nonprofit or for-profit organizations), institutions of higher 

education (including tribal institutions of higher education), and certain qualified individuals. Forprofit organizations must agree to forgo any profit or management fee. Foreign governments, 

foreign organizations, and foreign institutions of higher education are not eligible to apply. 

Deadline 

Applicants must register with Grants.gov prior to submitting an application. (See “How to Apply,” 

page 9.) All applications are due by 11:59 p.m. eastern time on May 29, 2012. (See “Deadlines: 

Registration and Application,” page 3.) 

Contact Information 

For technical assistance with submitting an application, contact the Grants.gov Customer 

Support Hotline at 800–518–4726 or 606–545–5035 or via e-mail to support@grants.gov.

Note: The Grants.gov Support Hotline hours of operation are 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 

except federal holidays. 

For assistance with any other requirement of this solicitation, contact Charles Heurich, Program 

Manager, by telephone at 202–616–9264 or by e-mail at Charles.Heurich@usdoj.gov.

Grants.gov number assigned to announcement: NIJ-2012-3100 

Release Date: March 30, 2012 

SL001002 
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Contents

Overview ....................................................................................................................................... 3 

Deadlines: Registration and Application ....................................................................................... 3 

Eligibility ........................................................................................................................................ 3 

Program-Specific Information ....................................................................................................... 3 

Performance Measures ................................................................................................................. 7 

Notice of Post-Award FFATA Reporting Requirement .................................................................. 9 

How to Apply ................................................................................................................................. 9 

What an Application Should Include ........................................................................................... 11 

Information to Complete the Application for Federal Assistance (SF-424) ..................... 12 

Program Narrative ........................................................................................................... 12 

Plan for Collecting the Data Required for This Solicitation’s Performance Measures ..... 12 

Budget Detail Worksheet and Budget Narrative ............................................................. 13 

Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (if applicable) .................................................................. 14 

Tribal Authorizing Resolution (if applicable) .................................................................... 14 

 Other Standard Forms .................................................................................................... 14 

Selection Criteria ......................................................................................................................... 15 

Review Process .......................................................................................................................... 15 

Additional Requirements ............................................................................................................. 16 

Provide Feedback to OJP on This Solicitation ............................................................................ 17 

Application Checklist ................................................................................................................... 18 
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Using DNA Technology to Identify the Missing 

(CFDA No. 16.560) 

Overview 

The goal of the “Using DNA Technology to Identify the Missing” solicitation is threefold: (1) to 

assist eligible entities in performing DNA analysis on unidentified human remains and/or 

reference samples to support the efforts of States and units of local government to identify 

missing persons, (2) to enter the resulting DNA profiles into the FBI’s National DNA Index 

System using the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) version 7.0, and (3) to enter any

relevant case information related to unidentified remains into the National Missing and 

Unidentified Persons System (NamUs), as deemed appropriate by the submitting agency (if a 

case is not entered a justification will be required). 

Authorizing Legislation: Department of Justice Appropriations Act, 2012 (Public Law 112-55). 

Deadlines: Registration and Application 

Applicants must register with Grants.gov prior to submitting an application. OJP encourages 

applicants to register several weeks before the application submission deadline. The deadline to 

apply for funding under this announcement is 11:59 p.m. eastern time on May 29, 2012. See the 

“How to Apply” section on page 9 for details. 

Eligibility 

Refer to the title page for eligibility under this program. 

Program-Specific Information 

DNA technology can provide valuable information to assist in determining the source of 

unidentified human remains. In recent years, newer DNA technologies have substantially 

increased the successful analysis of aged, degraded, limited, or otherwise compromised 

biological evidence. As a result, biological samples, including skeletal remains, once thought to 

be unsuitable for testing, may now yield DNA profiles. Additionally, samples that previously 

generated inconclusive DNA results may now be amenable to reanalysis using newer methods. 

A census by the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) demonstrated the magnitude of the number 

of unidentified decedents nationwide. This Special Report, entitled Medical Examiners and 

Coroners’ Offices, 2004 (available at www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs/pub/pdf/meco04.pdf) stated that 

over 4,000 unidentified human decedents are reported each year by medical examiners and 

coroners, and of those, an estimated 1,000 remain unidentified 1 year later and become “cold 

cases.” As of 2004, almost 13,500 unidentified human decedents were on record. The true 

number may actually be higher, as this census did not include unidentified human remains that 

are stored in other locations, such as law enforcement agencies. Experts refer to this national 

crisis as a “mass disaster over time” (“Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains: The Nation’s 

Silent Mass Disaster,” NIJ Journal No. 256, January 2007). (Also see the BJS Fact Sheet 

Unidentified Human Remains in the United States, 1980–2004, available at 

www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs/pub/pdf/uhrus04.pdf.) 
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Objectives 

NIJ’s Using DNA Technology to Identify the Missing program is intended to meet the following 

objectives. 

The following should be the primary objective of all proposals submitted to this solicitation. 

• DNA analysis of unidentified human remains and/or reference samples, followed 

by review of DNA profiles and upload into the FBI’s National DNA Index System 

using CODIS version 7.0. 

o DNA analyses conducted using funding from this program must be 

performed by a laboratory (government-owned or fee-for-service) that (1) 

is accredited by a nonprofit professional association of persons actively 

involved in forensic science that is nationally recognized within the 

forensic science community, and (2) currently undergoes external audits 

not less than once every 2 years that demonstrate compliance with the 

DNA Quality Assurance Standards established by the Director of the 

Federal Bureau of Investigation. 

o All eligible DNA profiles obtained with funding under this program must be 

entered into the FBI’s National DNA Index System using CODIS version 

7.0. 

o As available, all appropriate case information, including whether DNA 

samples have been collected, whether they have been successfully 

profiled, and the location of the profiled samples; dental records and 

radiographs; fingerprint cards; photographs if available; and any other 

relevant information must be entered into the U.S. Department of Justice, 

Office of Justice Programs’ National Missing and Unidentified Persons 

System (NamUs) by the appropriate medical examiner, coroner, or law 

enforcement agency. 

The following activities are permissible as secondary objectives. The proposal should clearly 

demonstrate that these activities can be successfully performed and that the applicant has prior 

experience performing this work: 

• Anthropological/odontological examinations of unidentified human remains for 

the following purposes: 

o Pre-DNA analysis: To establish if unidentified human remains are 

amenable to subsequent DNA analysis. 

o Post-DNA analysis: For creating a case record and entering information 

into the unidentified decedents database of NamUs.

• Evaluation and application of new DNA technologies designed to increase the 

amount of genetic information obtained from compromised skeletal remains. 

 
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The program narrative should include the following information: 

• The number of unidentified human remains and/or reference samples to be 

analyzed by DNA testing. 

• A description of the source(s) of the samples to be analyzed, how the samples 

will be obtained, the entity that will perform the DNA analysis, and how the DNA 

analysis will support the efforts of States and units of local government to identify 

missing persons. 

• A description of the type of DNA analysis to be performed (e.g., short tandem 

repeat [STR], mitochondrial DNA) and a demonstration of the laboratory’s 

proficiency in performing such DNA analysis on unidentified human remains 

and/or reference samples. 

• A description of the processes to be used to review and enter DNA data into the 

FBI’s National DNA Index System using CODIS version 7.0, including the name 

of the entity that will review and enter the data and a demonstration of that 

entity’s ability and authority to perform this function. If the entity designated to 

review and enter DNA data has been identified and is not the entity performing 

the DNA analysis, an appropriate written agreement between the entities must be 

in place and included with the application. 

• If the DNA analysis will be performed by a public or private entity other than the 

applicant and has been identified, an appropriate written agreement between the 

applicant and the entity performing the DNA analysis must be included. 

Amount and Length of Awards: Total funding for this solicitation and the number of awards 

made will depend on the availability of funds, the quality of the applications, and other pertinent 

factors. NIJ anticipates that approximately $3 million may become available for 2-4 awards 

made through this solicitation. All awards are subject to the availability of appropriated 

funds and to any modifications or additional requirements that may be imposed by law. 

In general, NIJ will limit any grants under this program to a maximum period of 18 months after 

the start of the award. Applicants should be aware that the total period of an award, including 

one that receives a project period extension, ordinarily will not exceed 3 years. 

Budget Information 

Permissible uses of funds under this program may include the following: 

1. Salary (full-time, part-time, overtime) and benefits. Funds may be used for staff directly 

engaged in performing DNA analysis on unidentified human remains and/or reference samples 

from State or local government missing persons investigations. Funds may also be used for 

anthropologists/odontologists for those activities directly related to establishing whether 

unidentified human remains are amenable to subsequent DNA analysis or to the entry of 

information into NamUs. Note: NIJ makes no assurance that funds will be available for this 

purpose in any future award announcements. Supplanting is not permitted. 
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2. Travel (limited). Funds may be used for reasonable travel expenses related to transporting 

unidentified human remains from State or local government missing persons investigations to 

the laboratory for analysis. 

3. Equipment and computers. Funds may be used for upgrading, replacing, and purchasing 

equipment, instrumentation, and computer hardware or software for DNA analyses of 

unidentified human remains and/or reference samples from State or local government missing 

persons investigations. All equipment must be dedicated solely to this purpose or costs must be 

prorated accordingly. Equipment for enhancing the laboratory’s overall DNA capacity is not 

allowable. 

4. Supplies. Funds may be used for supplies related to performing DNA analysis on 

unidentified human remains and/or reference samples from State or local government missing 

persons investigations, and for other supplies directly related to the performance of the 

proposal’s objectives. The proposal must clearly demonstrate that the types and number of 

supplies requested are appropriate for the proposed level of effort. Supplies for enhancing the 

laboratory’s overall DNA capacity are not allowable. 

5. Consultant and contractor services. Funds may be used to hire consultants and/or 

temporary contract staff to perform DNA analysis on unidentified human remains and/or 

reference samples from State or local government missing persons investigations. Funds may 

also be used to outsource samples to qualified public or private laboratories. 

6. Other reasonable expenses directly related to the performance of the proposal’s objectives. 

(See page 4 for information on acceptable objectives.)

What will not be funded: 

1. Provision of training or direct service. 

2. Proposals primarily to purchase equipment, materials, or supplies. 

3. Work that will be funded under another specific solicitation. 

Limitation on Use of Award Funds for Employee Compensation; Waiver 

With respect to any award of more than $250,000 made under this solicitation, federal funds 

may not be used to pay total cash compensation (salary plus bonuses) to any employee of the 

award recipient at a rate that exceeds 110% of the maximum annual salary payable to a 

member of the Federal Government’s Senior Executive Service (SES) at an agency with a 

Certified SES Performance Appraisal System for that year. The 2012 salary table for SES 

employees is available at www.opm.gov/oca/12tables/indexSES.asp. Note: A recipient may 

compensate an employee at a higher rate, provided the amount in excess of this compensation 

limitation is paid with non-federal funds. (Any such additional compensation will not be 

considered matching funds where match requirements apply.) 

The limitation on compensation rates allowable under an award may be waived on an individual 

basis at the discretion of the Assistant Attorney General (AAG) for OJP. An applicant requesting 

a waiver should include a detailed justification in the budget narrative of its application. Unless 

the applicant submits a waiver request and justification with the application, the applicant should 

anticipate that OJP will request the applicant to adjust and resubmit its budget. 

The justification should include the particular qualifications and expertise of the individual, the 

uniqueness of the service being provided, the individual’s specific knowledge of the program or 
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project being undertaken with award funds, and a statement explaining that the individual’s 

salary is commensurate with the regular and customary rate for an individual with his/her 

qualifications and expertise, and for the work to be done. 

Minimization of Conference Costs 

No OJP funding can be used to purchase food and/or beverages for any meeting, conference, 

training, or other event. Exceptions to this restriction may be made only in cases where such 

sustenance is not otherwise available (i.e., extremely remote areas), or where a special 

presentation at a conference requires a plenary address where there is no other time for 

sustenance to be obtained. Such an exception would require prior approval from OJP. This 

restriction does not apply to water provided at no cost, but does apply to any and all other 

refreshments, regardless of the size or nature of the meeting. Additionally, this restriction does 

not impact direct payment of per diem amounts to individuals in a travel status under the 

organization’s travel policy. 

Updated Department of Justice and OJP guidance on conference planning, minimization of 

costs, and conference cost reporting will be forthcoming and will be accessible on the OJP 

website at www.ojp.usdoj.gov/funding/funding.htm. 

Costs Associated with Language Assistance (if applicable) 

If an applicant proposes a program or activity that would deliver services or benefits to 

individuals, the costs of taking reasonable steps to provide meaningful access to those services 

or benefits by individuals with limited English proficiency may be allowable costs. Reasonable 

steps to provide meaningful access to services or benefits may include interpretation or 

translation services where appropriate. 

For additional information, see the "Civil Rights Compliance" section of the OJP "Other 

Requirements for OJP Applications" Web page 

(www.ojp.usdoj.gov/funding/other_requirements.htm). 

Match Requirement 

See “Cofunding” paragraph under “What an Application Should Include” (below). 

Performance Measures 

To assist the Department in fulfilling its responsibilities under the Government Performance and 

Results Act of 1993 (GPRA), Public Law 103-62, and the GPRA Modernization Act of 2010, 

Public Law 111–352, applicants that receive funding under this solicitation must provide data 

that measure the results of their work done under this solicitation. Any award recipient will be 

required, post award, to provide the data requested in the “Data Grantee Provides” column so 

that OJP can calculate values for the “Performance Measures” column. Performance measures 

for this solicitation are as follows: 

 
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Objective Performance Measure(s) Data Grantee Provides

1. To perform DNA analysis 

on unidentified human 

remains and/or reference 

samples collected as part 

of State or local 

government missing 

persons investigations, and 

to enter resulting DNA 

profiles into the FBI’s 

National DNA Index 

System using CODIS 

version 7.0. 

2. To enter relevant case 

information including DNA 

profiles, dental records, and 

any other relevant 

information into the OJP 

National Missing and 

Unidentified Persons 

System, NamUs. 

1. Percentage of unidentified 

human remains and/or reference 

samples that yield a DNA profile. 

2. Percentage of unidentified 

human remains cases entered 

into NamUs. 

3. Percentage of DNA profiles 

resulting in a CODIS match. 

1. The number of unidentified 

human remains and/or reference 

samples analyzed by DNA 

testing. 

2. The number of unidentified 

human remains and/or reference 

samples that yielded a DNA 

profile. 

3. The number of DNA profiles 

from State or local government 

missing persons investigations 

that were entered into the FBI’s 

National DNA Index System 

using CODIS version 7.0. 

4. The number of CODIS 

matches resulting from DNA 

analysis of unidentified human 

remains and/or reference 

samples from State or local 

government missing persons 

investigations. 

5. The number of cases entered 

into NamUs. 

6. The number of cases solved 

or assisted by entry into NamUs. 

Submission of performance measures data is not required for the application. Instead, 

applicants should discuss in their application their proposed methods for collecting data for 

performance measures. Refer to the section “What an Application Should Include” on page 11 

for additional information. 

Note on Project Evaluations 

Applicants that propose to use funds awarded through this solicitation to conduct project 

evaluations should be aware that certain project evaluations (such as systematic investigations 

designed to develop or contribute to generalizable knowledge) may constitute “research” for 

purposes of applicable DOJ human subjects protection regulations. However, project 

evaluations that are intended only to generate internal improvements to a program or service, or 

are conducted only to meet OJP’s performance measure data reporting requirements likely do 

not constitute “research.” Applicants should provide sufficient information for OJP to determine 

whether the particular project they propose would either intentionally or unintentionally collect 

and/or use information in such a way that it meets the DOJ regulatory definition of research. 

Research, for the purposes of human subjects protections for OJP-funded programs, is defined 

as “a systematic investigation, including research development, testing, and evaluation, 

designed to develop or contribute to generalizable knowledge” 28 C.F.R. § 46.102(d). For 

additional information on determining whether a proposed activity would constitute research, 

see the decision tree to assist applicants on the “Research and the Protection of Human 
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Subjects” section of the OJP “Other Requirements for OJP Applications” Web page 

(www.ojp.usdoj.gov/funding/other_requirements.htm). Applicants whose proposals may involve 

a research or statistical component also should review the “Confidentiality” section on that Web 

page. 

Notice of Post-Award FFATA Reporting Requirement 

Applicants should anticipate that OJP will require all recipients (other than individuals) of awards 

of $25,000 or more under this solicitation, consistent with the Federal Funding Accountability 

and Transparency Act of 2006 (FFATA), to report award information on any first-tier subawards 

totaling $25,000 or more, and, in certain cases, to report information on the names and total 

compensation of the five most highly compensated executives of the recipient and first-tier 

subrecipients. Each applicant entity must ensure that it has the necessary processes and 

systems in place to comply with the reporting requirements should it receive funding. Reports 

regarding subawards will be made through the FFATA Subaward Reporting System (FSRS), 

found at www.fsrs.gov. 

Please note also that applicants should anticipate that no subaward of an award made under 

this solicitation may be made to a subrecipient (other than an individual) unless the potential 

subrecipient acquires and provides a Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number. 

How to Apply 

Applications will be submitted through Grants.gov. Grants.gov is a “one-stop storefront” that 

provides a unified process for all customers of federal awards to find funding opportunities and 

apply for funding. Complete instructions on how to register and submit an application can be 

found at www.Grants.gov. If the applicant experiences technical difficulties at any point during 

this process, call the Grants.gov Customer Support Hotline at 800-518-4726 or 606–545–5035, 

24 hours a day, 7 days a week, except federal holidays. Registering with Grants.gov is a onetime process; however, processing delays may occur, and it can take up to several weeks

for first-time registrants to receive confirmation and a user password. OJP highly recommends 

that applicants start the registration process as early as possible to prevent delays in submitting 

an application package by the specified application deadline. 

All applicants are required to complete the following steps: 

1. Acquire a Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number. In general, the Office 

of Management and Budget requires that all applicants (other than individuals) for 

federal funds include a DUNS number in their applications for a new award or renewal of 

an existing award. A DUNS number is a unique nine-digit sequence recognized as the 

universal standard for identifying and keeping track of entities receiving federal funds. 

The identifier is used for tracking purposes and to validate address and point of contact 

information for federal assistance applicants, recipients, and subrecipients. The DUNS 

number will be used throughout the grant life cycle. Obtaining a DUNS number is a free, 

one-time activity. Obtain a DUNS number by calling Dun and Bradstreet at 866–705–

5711 or by applying online at www.dnb.com. A DUNS number is usually received within 

1-2 business days. 

2. Acquire or renew registration with the Central Contractor Registration (CCR) 

database. OJP requires that all applicants (other than individuals) for federal financial 
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assistance maintain current registrations in the CCR database. An applicant must be 

registered in the CCR to successfully register in Grants.gov. The CCR database is the 

repository for standard information about federal financial assistance applicants, 

recipients, and subrecipients. Organizations that have previously submitted applications 

via Grants.gov are already registered with CCR, as it is a requirement for Grants.gov 

registration. Note, however, that applicants must update or renew their CCR 

registration annually to maintain an active status. Information about CCR registration 

procedures can be accessed at www.ccr.gov. 

3. Acquire an Authorized Organization Representative (AOR) and a Grants.gov 

username and password. Complete the AOR profile on Grants.gov and create a 

username and password. The applicant organization’s DUNS number must be used to 

complete this step. For more information about the registration process, go to 

www.grants.gov/applicants/get_registered.jsp.

4. Acquire confirmation for the AOR from the E-Business Point of Contact (E-Biz 

POC). The E-Biz POC at the applicant organization must log into Grants.gov to confirm 

the applicant organization’s AOR. Note that there can be more than one AOR for the 

organization.

5. Search for the funding opportunity on Grants.gov. Use the following identifying 

information when searching for the funding opportunity on Grants.gov. The Catalog of 

Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) number for this solicitation is 16.560, titled 

“National Institute of Justice Research, Evaluation, and Development Project Grants,” 

and the funding opportunity number is NIJ-2012-3100.

6. Complete the Disclosure of Lobbying Activities. All applicants must complete this 

information. An applicant that expends any funds for lobbying activities must provide the 

detailed information requested on the form, Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (SF-LLL). 

An applicant that does not expend any funds for lobbying activities should enter “N/A” in 

the required highlighted fields. 

7. Submit an application consistent with this solicitation by following the directions 

in Grants.gov. Within 24–48 hours after submitting the electronic application, the 

applicant should receive an e-mail validation message from Grants.gov. The validation 

message will state whether the application has been received and validated, or rejected, 

with an explanation. Important: Applicants are urged to submit applications at least 72 

hours prior to the due date of the application to allow time to receive the validation 

message and to correct any problems that may have caused a rejection notification. 

Note: Grants.gov will forward the application to OJP’s Grants Management System 

(GMS). GMS does not accept executable file types as application attachments. These 

disallowed file types include, but are not limited to, the following extensions: “.com,” “.bat,” 

“.exe,” “.vbs,” “.cfg,” “.dat,” “.db,” “.dbf,” “.dll,” “.ini,” “.log,” “.ora,” “.sys,” and “.zip.” 

Note: Duplicate Applications

If an applicant submits multiple versions of an application, NIJ will review the most recent 

version submitted. 

 
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Experiencing Unforeseen Grants.gov Technical Issues 

If an applicant experiences unforeseen Grants.gov technical issues beyond the applicant’s 

control that prevent submission of its application by the deadline, the applicant must email the 

NIJ contact identified in the Contact Information section on page 1 within 24 hours after the 

application deadline and request approval to submit its application. The applicant must include 

in the e-mail: a description of the technical difficulties, a timeline of submission efforts, the 

complete grant application, the applicant DUNS number, and Grants.gov Help Desk tracking 

number(s) the applicant has received. Note: Requests are not automatically approved by 

NIJ. After the program office reviews all of the information submitted, and contacts the 

Grants.gov Help Desk to validate the technical issues reported, OJP will contact the applicant to 

either approve or deny the request to submit a late application. If the technical issues reported 

cannot be validated, the application will be rejected as untimely. 

The following conditions are not valid reasons to permit late submissions: (1) failure to begin the 

registration process in sufficient time, (2) failure to follow Grants.gov instructions on how to 

register and apply as posted on its Web site, (3) failure to follow all of the instructions in the OJP 

solicitation, and (4) technical issues experienced with the applicant’s computer or information 

technology (IT) environment, including firewalls. 

Notifications regarding known technical problems with Grants.gov, if any, are posted at the top 

of the OJP funding Web page at www.ojp.usdoj.gov/funding/solicitations.htm. 

What an Application Should Include 

Applicants should anticipate that failure to submit an application that contains all of the specified 

elements may negatively affect the review of the application; and, should a decision be made to 

make an award, it may result in the inclusion of special conditions that preclude access to or 

use of award funds pending satisfaction of the conditions. 

Moreover, applicants should anticipate that applications that are unresponsive to the scope of 

the solicitation, or that do not include application elements designated by NIJ to be critical will 

neither proceed to peer review nor receive further consideration. Under this solicitation, NIJ has 

designated the following application elements as critical: program narrative, budget detail 

worksheet and budget narrative, and resumes/curriculum vitae of key personnel. The Budget 

Narrative and the Budget Detail Worksheet may be combined in one document. However, if only 

one document is submitted, it must contain both narrative and detail information. 

OJP strongly recommends use of appropriately descriptive file names (e.g., “Program 

Narrative,” “Budget Detail Worksheet and Budget Narrative,” “Timelines,” “Memoranda of 

Understanding,” “Resumes”) for all attachments. OJP recommends that resumes be included in 

a single file. 

1. Information to complete the Application for Federal Assistance (SF–424) 

The SF–424 is a standard form required for use as a cover sheet for submission of preapplications, applications, and related information. Grants.gov and GMS take information 

from the applicant’s profile to populate the fields on this form. When selecting "type of 

applicant," if the applicant is a for-profit entity, select "For-Profit Organization" or "Small 

Business" (as applicable). 
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2. Program Narrative 

The program narrative section of the application should not exceed 20 double-spaced 

pages in 12-point font with 1-inch margins. Abstract, table of contents, charts, figures, 

appendices, and government forms do not count toward the 20-page limit for the 

narrative section. 

If the program narrative fails to comply with these length-related restrictions, 

noncompliance may be considered in peer review and in final award decisions. 

Program Narrative Guidelines: 

a. Title Page (not counted against the 20-page program narrative limit). 

The title page should include the title of the project, submission date, funding 

opportunity number, and the applicant’s name and complete contact information 

(i.e., name, address, telephone number, and e-mail address).

b. Project Abstract (not counted against the 25-page program narrative limit). 

The 400 to 600-word abstract is a self-contained summary of the most important 

elements of the project. The proposal abstract should serve as a succinct and 

accurate description of the proposed work. Applicants should concisely describe 

project goals and objectives, project plans, and methods for achieving the goals. 

Once an award has been granted, the abstract is computerized and serves as a 

summary available to all interested parties for the duration of the grant. 

c. Resubmit Response (if applicable) (not counted against the 20-page program 

narrative limit). If an applicant is resubmitting a proposal that was presented 

previously to NIJ, but not funded, the applicant should indicate this. A statement 

should be provided, no more than two pages, addressing: (1) the title, 

submission date, and NIJ-assigned application number of the previous proposal, 

and (2) a brief summary of revisions to the proposal. This document should be 

inserted after the abstract. 

d. Table of Contents and Figures (not counted against the 20-page program 

narrative limit). 

e. Main body. The main body of the program narrative should describe the project 

in depth. The following sections should be included as part of the program 

narrative: 

• Statement of the Problem. 

• Project/Program Design and Implementation. 

• Capabilities/Competencies. 

• Impact/Outcomes and Evaluation. 

• Plan for Collecting the Data Required for This Solicitation’s 

Performance Measures. Note: Submission of performance measures 

data is not required for the application. Performance measures are 

included as an alert that successful applicants will be required to 

submit specific data to NIJ as part of their reporting requirements. For 

the application, the applicant should indicate an understanding of 

these requirements and discuss how the applicant will gather the 

required data, should the applicant receive funding. 
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 Within these sections, the narrative should address: 

• Objectives as outlined on page 4. 

• Program narrative elements outlined on page 5. 

• Management plan and organization. 

f. Appendices (not counted against the 20-page program narrative limit) include: 

• Bibliography/references. 

• List of key personnel. 

• Resumes of key personnel. 

• List of previous and current NIJ awards to applicant organization. 

• Letters of cooperation/support or administrative agreements (as 

outlined on page 5) from organizations collaborating in the project (if 

applicable). 

• Chart for timeline or milestones. 

• List of other agencies, organizations, or funding sources to which this 

proposal has been submitted (if applicable). 

• Other materials specified by the solicitation. 

3. Budget Detail Worksheet and Budget Narrative 

a. Budget Detail Worksheet 

A sample Budget Detail Worksheet can be found at 

www.ojp.gov/funding/forms/budget_detail.pdf. If the budget is submitted in a different 

format, the budget categories listed in the sample budget worksheet should be 

included. 

For questions pertaining to budget and examples of allowable and unallowable costs, 

see the OJP Financial Guide at www.ojp.usdoj.gov/financialguide/index.htm. 

b. Budget Narrative 

The Budget Narrative should thoroughly and clearly describe every category of 

expense listed in the Budget Detail Worksheet. Proposed budgets are expected to 

be complete; reasonable and allowable; cost-effective; and necessary for project 

activities. The narrative should be mathematically sound and correspond with the 

information and figures provided in the Budget Detail Worksheet. The narrative 

should explain how all costs were estimated and calculated and how they are 

relevant to the completion of the proposed project. The narrative may include tables 

for clarification purposes but need not be in a spreadsheet format. As with the 

Budget Detail Worksheet, the Budget Narrative should be broken down by year. 

Cofunding: A grant made by NIJ under this solicitation may account for up to 100 

percent of the total cost of the project. The application should indicate whether it is 

feasible for the applicant to contribute cash, facilities, or services as non-Federal 

support for the project. The application should identify generally any such 

contributions that the applicant expects to make and the proposed budget should 

indicate in detail which items, if any, will be supported with non-Federal contributions. 

If a successful application proposes a voluntary match amount, the match amount 

incorporated into the OJP-approved budget becomes mandatory and subject to 

audit. 
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4. Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (if applicable) 

Indirect costs are allowed only if the applicant has a federally approved indirect cost rate. 

(This requirement does not apply to units of local government.) A copy of the rate 

approval should be attached. If the applicant does not have an approved rate, one can 

be requested by contacting the applicant’s cognizant Federal agency, which will review 

all documentation and approve a rate for the applicant organization or, if the applicant’s 

accounting system permits, costs may be allocated in the direct cost categories. If DOJ 

is the cognizant Federal agency, obtain information needed to submit an indirect cost 

rate proposal at www.ojp.usdoj.gov/funding/pdfs/indirect_costs.pdf.

5. Tribal Authorizing Resolution (if applicable)

If an application is being submitted by either (1) a tribe or tribal organization or (2) a third 

party proposing to provide direct services or assistance to residents on tribal lands, then 

a current authorizing resolution of the governing body of the tribal entity or other 

enactment of the tribal council or comparable governing body authorizing the inclusion of 

the tribe or tribal organization and its membership should be included with the 

application. In those instances when an organization or consortium of tribes proposes to 

apply for a grant on behalf of a tribe or multiple specific tribes, then the application 

should include a resolution (or comparable legal documentation, as may be applicable) 

from all tribes that will be included as a part of the services/assistance provided under 

the grant. A consortium of tribes for which existing consortium bylaws allow action 

without support from all tribes in the consortium (i.e., without authorizing resolution or 

other enactment of each tribal governing body) may submit a copy of its consortium 

bylaws with the application in lieu of tribal resolutions (or comparable legal 

documentation). 

6. Other Standard Forms

Additional forms that may be required in connection with an award are available on 

OJP’s funding page at www.ojp.usdoj.gov/funding/forms.htm. For successful applicants, 

receipt of funds may be contingent upon submission of all necessary forms. Note in 

particular the following forms. 

a. Standard Assurances 

Applicants must read, certify, and submit this form in GMS prior to the receipt 

of any award funds. 

b. Certifications Regarding Lobbying; Debarment, Suspension and Other 

Responsibility Matters; and Drug-Free Workplace Requirements 

Applicants must read, certify, and submit in GMS prior to the receipt of any 

award funds. 

c. Accounting System and Financial Capability Questionnaire

(required for any applicant other than an individual that is a non-governmental 

entity and that has not received any award from OJP within the past 3 years; 

this form must be downloaded, completed, and submitted). 

 
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Selection Criteria 

Statement of the Problem (Understanding of the problem and its importance)—15%

Applications should include appropriate information to demonstrate an understanding of the 

problem and the expected impact of the funding. 

Project/Program Design and Implementation (Quality and technical merit)—30%

1. Awareness of the state of current DNA technology and its application to analysis of 

biological samples typically encountered in missing persons investigations. 

2. Soundness of methodology and analytic and technical approach, taking into account the 

objectives set forth on page 4. 

3. Feasibility of proposed project and awareness of pitfalls. 

4. Innovation and creativity (when appropriate). 

Capabilities/Competencies (Capabilities, demonstrated productivity, and experience of 

applicants)—20%

1. Qualifications and experience of proposed staff. 

 2. Demonstrated ability of proposed staff and organization to manage the effort. 

 3. Adequacy of the plan to manage the project, including how various tasks are subdivided 

and resources are used. 

 4. Successful past performance on NIJ grants and contracts (when applicable). 

Budget—15% 

1. Total cost of the project relative to the perceived benefit (cost-effectiveness). 

 2. Appropriateness of the budget relative to the level of effort. 

 3. Use of existing resources to conserve costs. 

Impact/Outcomes and Evaluation/Plan for Collecting Data for Performance Measures

(Relevance to policy and practice)—20% 

1. Potential for resolving State or local government missing persons investigations. 

2. Potential for significant advances in the field. 

3. Affordability and cost-effectiveness of proposed approach. 

4. Plan for collecting data required for this solicitation’s performance measures. 

Review Process 

OJP is committed to ensuring a fair and open process for awarding grants. NIJ reviews the 

application to make sure that the information presented is reasonable, understandable, 

measurable, and achievable, as well as consistent with the solicitation. 

Peer reviewers will review the applications submitted under this solicitation that meet basic 

minimum requirements. NIJ may use either internal peer reviewers, external peer reviewers, or 

a combination, to review the applications under this solicitation. An external peer reviewer is an 

expert in the subject matter of a given solicitation who is NOT a current DOJ employee. An 

internal reviewer is a current DOJ employee who is well-versed or has expertise in the subject 

matter of this solicitation. Applications that meet basic minimum requirements will be evaluated, 

scored, and rated by a peer review panel. Peer reviewers’ ratings and any resulting 

recommendations are advisory only. In addition to peer review ratings, considerations for award 
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recommendations and decisions may include, but are not limited to, underserved populations, 

geographic diversity, strategic priorities, past performance, and available funding. 

The Office of the Chief Financial Officer (OCFO), in consultation with NIJ, conducts a financial 

review of applications for potential discretionary awards to evaluate the fiscal integrity and 

financial capability of applicants; examines proposed costs to determine if the Budget Detail 

Worksheet and Budget Narrative accurately explain project costs; and determines whether 

costs are reasonable, necessary, and allowable under applicable federal cost principles and 

agency regulations. 

Absent explicit statutory authorization or written delegation of authority to the contrary, all final 

award decisions will be made by the Assistant Attorney General (AAG), who also may give 

consideration to factors including, but not limited to, underserved populations, geographic 

diversity, strategic priorities, past performance, and available funding when making awards. 

Additional Requirements 

Applicants selected for awards must agree to comply with additional legal requirements upon 

acceptance of an award. OJP strongly encourages applicants to review the information 

pertaining to these additional requirements prior to submitting an application. Additional 

information for each requirement can be found at 

www.ojp.usdoj.gov/funding/other_requirements.htm. 

• Civil Rights Compliance 

• Faith-Based and Other Community Organizations 

• Confidentiality 

• Research and the Protection of Human Subjects 

• Anti-Lobbying Act 

• Financial and Government Audit Requirements 

• National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) 

• DOJ Information Technology Standards (if applicable) 

• Single Point of Contact Review 

• Non-Supplanting of State or Local Funds 

• Criminal Penalty for False Statements 

• Compliance with Office of Justice Programs Financial Guide

• Suspension or Termination of Funding 
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• Nonprofit Organizations 

• For-profit Organizations 

• Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) 

• Rights in Intellectual Property 

• Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act (FFATA) of 2006 

• Awards in Excess of $5,000,000 – Federal Taxes Certification Requirement 

• Active CCR Registration 

If a proposal is funded, the award recipient will be required to submit several reports and other 

materials, including: 

Interim reports: Grantees must submit quarterly financial reports, semi-annual progress 

reports, a final progress report, and, if applicable, an annual audit report in accordance with 

Office of Management and Budget Circular A–133. Future awards and fund drawdowns may be 

withheld if reports are delinquent. 

Final substantive report: The final report should be a comprehensive overview of the project 

and should include a detailed description of the project/program, including: 

• The number of unidentified human remains and/or reference samples analyzed by DNA 

testing. 

• The number of unidentified human remains and/or reference samples that yielded a 

DNA profile. 

• The number of DNA profiles from State or local government missing persons 

investigations that were entered into the FBI’s National DNA Index System using CODIS 

version 7.0. 

• The number of CODIS matches resulting from DNA analysis of unidentified human 

remains and/or reference samples from State or local government missing persons 

investigations. 

• The number of cases entered into NamUs. (If applicable, a brief justification should be 

included as to why cases are not entered.) 

• The number of cases solved or assisted by entry into NamUs. 

Provide Feedback to OJP on This Solicitation 

To assist OJP in improving its application and award processes, we encourage applicants to 

provide feedback on this solicitation, the application submission process, and/or the application 

review/peer review process. Feedback can be provided to 

OJPSolicitationFeedback@usdoj.gov. 
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Application Checklist 

Using DNA Technology to Identify the Missing 

This application checklist has been created to assist in developing an application. 

What an Application Should Include: 

_____ Application for Federal Assistance (SF-424) (see page 12) 

_____ Program Narrative (see page 12) 

 _____ Double-spaced 

 _____ 12-point standard font 

 _____ 1” standard margins 

 _____ Narrative is 20 pages or less 

_____ Appendices to the Program Narrative (see page 13) 

 _____ Bibliography/References (if applicable) 

 _____ List of key personnel 

 _____ Resumes of key personnel 

 _____ List of previous and current NIJ awards to applicant organization 

 _____ Letters of cooperation/support or administrative agreements from organizations 

 collaborating in the project (if applicable) 

_____ Chart for timeline or milestones 

_____ List of other agencies, organizations or funding sources to which this proposal 

 has been submitted (if applicable) 

_____ Budget Detail Worksheet (see page 13) 

_____ Budget Narrative (see page 13) 

_____ Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (SF-LLL) (see page 10) 

_____ Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (if applicable) (see page 14)

_____ Tribal Authorizing Resolution (if applicable) (see page 14) 

_____ Other Standard Forms as applicable (see page 14), including: 

 _____ Accounting System and Financial Capability Questionnaire (if applicable)