The Small, Rural, and Tribal Body-Worn Camera (SRT BWC) Grant Program opened for new applications on Jan. 26 and the deadline to apply is March 12. Apply for the SRT BWC grant and watch an introductory video to the program.
The SRT BWC program provides funding for body-worn cameras to:
- Law enforcement agencies with 50 or fewer full-time sworn personnel
- Rural agencies located in non-urban or non-metro counties
- Federally recognized tribal law enforcement agencies
Funds may be used to purchase or lease body-worn cameras and to cover expenses reasonably related to implementing a comprehensive BWC program. Grants may support pilot programs, new implementation, or expansion of existing programs.
Grant funds may not be used for BWCs purchased prior to Jan. 1, 2026. A one-to-one match is required and may include in-kind contributions.
The program is administered by Justice & Security Strategies Inc. through a cooperative agreement with the Bureau of Justice Assistance.
Research shows high-performing agencies use body-worn cameras
The League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust recently completed the fourth year of the iMPACT Project, a research study that utilizes predictive analysis to identify key risk factors facing Minnesota law enforcement agencies and to provide evidence-based recommendations for approaches to address these risks.
One of the findings of the research addressed body-worn cameras and how the data was being used to successfully reduce risks. The research showed a correlation to a reduction in both liability and worker’s compensation claims for agencies that have established a BWC program and a process for reviewing BWC data to provide direct feedback to officers. Quite simply, the evidence-based benefits of BWCs to reduce liability risk is centered around how agencies use that footage to learn, train, commend, and develop their officers through an after-action review process.
League website offers additional resources related to body-worn cameras
The League offers free resources on the use of body-worn cameras, including a model policy, to help cities administer BWC programs and handle the subsequent data soundly and in accordance with Minnesota law.
Additionally, the League’s Grant Navigator program can assist cities with the costs involved in applying for a grant. Grant Navigator helps cities understand, identify, and apply for grant funding for city projects, including BWC programs. Under the program, the League may provide funding up to $5,000 per city to cover grant research and writing expenses using consultants necessary to prepare the grant application.
Questions?
I am available to answer any questions or address any concerns about your BWC program and this grant opportunity. Contact me at 763-232-5328 or tstille@lmc.org.
Stay Safe,
Tracy
