Disrupting Transnational Criminal Organizations Through Advanced Forensic Capabilities in Morocco
This grant will enhance Morocco's forensic science abilities to better combat transnational criminal organizations and strengthen its global leadership in forensics.
Funder: Bureau of International Narcotics-Law Enforcement
Due Dates: August 12, 2026 (Questions) | September 9, 2026 (Application)
Funding Amounts: $1,500,000–$2,100,000 total for a single 24-month project; 1 award expected.
Summary: Funding to advance Morocco’s forensic science and regional security by supporting training, capacity building, and deployment of a mobile forensic facility.
Key Information: Applicants must demonstrate business registration in Morocco; cost share is recommended but not required.
Description
This grant opportunity, offered by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), supports a comprehensive project to strengthen Morocco’s forensic science capabilities. The initiative aims to disrupt transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) by enhancing Morocco’s ability to conduct evidence-based investigations and prosecutions, particularly in drug trafficking and related transnational crimes. The project will build on INL’s previous support that established Morocco as a regional leader in forensic science.
Key components include:
- Advanced training for Moroccan forensic experts and law enforcement at national and regional levels.
- Development and delivery of a forensics curriculum at Morocco’s Higher Institute of Security Sciences and the DGSN Forensic and Scientific Police Laboratory.
- Deployment of a fully equipped mobile forensic facility to underserved regions (Laayoune and Dakhla), reducing evidence transport time and enabling rapid on-site analysis.
- Train-the-trainer programs to ensure sustainability and local capacity.
- Regional collaboration by including law enforcement and forensic professionals from neighboring countries.
The project is intended to make Morocco a hub for forensic capacity building in Africa and the Middle East.
