Risk Assessment: Conducting Prison Security Audits

A well‑designed and well‑managed security audit program systematically reviews prison operations, policies, procedures, staff performance, physical security systems, and emergency preparedness to identify vulnerabilities and risks. Because prisons inherently involve high‑risk factors—such as escapes, violence, contraband, disturbances, and other safety threats—structured, policy‑driven audits conducted by knowledgeable staff are essential for identifying and preventing problems before they occur. NIC’s 36‑hour security training program supports this goal by providing a comprehensive, hands‑on auditing experience. The program includes an in‑brief with agency and facility leadership, one full day of in‑person classroom instruction, three and a half days of prison‑based audit work, and a half‑day executive close‑out. Participants have a unique, nonjudgmental opportunity to apply auditing skills in real operational settings as teams are deployed to designated prisons. Upon completion, a full report of findings is prepared, enabling agencies to develop effective remediation strategies. Funding activity: The National Institute of Corrections (NIC) is seeking applications for funding under fiscal year (FY) 2026 for the coordination, facilitation, and management of the security audit training program with measured remediation support. Eligibility: NIC invites applications from nonprofit organizations (including faith-based, community, and tribal organizations), for-profit organizations (including tribal for-profit organizations), and institutions of higher education (including tribal institutions of higher education). Recipients, including for-profit organizations, must agree to waive any profit or fee for services. Foreign governments, international organizations, and non-governmental international organizations/institutions are not eligible to apply. Proof of 501(c) (3) status as determined by the Internal Revenue Service or an authorizing tribal resolution is required.NIC welcomes applications that involve two or more entities; however, one eligible entity must be the applicant, and the others must be proposed as subrecipients. The applicant must be the entity with primary responsibility for administering the funding and managing the entire program. Only one (1) application will be accepted from a submitting organization.NIC may elect to make awards for applications submitted under this solicitation in future fiscal years, dependent on the merit of the applications and on the availability of appropriations. Award ceiling: 175,000 CFDA: 16.601