BJA FY 2026 Second Chance Act Improving Reentry Education and Employment Outcomes
This grant funds programs that help people leaving prison or jail gain education and job skills to improve employment prospects and reduce recidivism.
Funder: Bureau of Justice Assistance
Due Dates: September 24, 2026 (Original Grants.gov deadline) | October 1, 2026 (JustGrants deadline) | November 6, 2026 (Current application closing date)
Funding Amounts: Up to $1,000,000 per award; no cost sharing or matching required
Summary: Supports education and employment programs for adults and youth leaving prison and jail to improve employment outcomes and reduce recidivism.
Description
The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), within the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs, administers this Second Chance Act opportunity. It supports state, local, and tribal governments and community-based organizations providing education and employment programs for adults and youth leaving prison and jail.
The program aims to improve academic and vocational/trade programs in prisons and jails and expand workforce development and career pathways. Its goals include better job readiness, employment attainment, and retention, ultimately improving employment prospects and reducing recidivism. Applicants may propose projects that develop marketable skills, leverage technology, and build capacity to align programs with local job markets and participation in the digital economy.
