Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) 2025

The Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) 2025, administered by the U.S. Embassy Bangui, aims to provide funding for innovative, alumni-led projects addressing critical global challenges within local communities. The fund builds on the skills gained by participants of U.S.-sponsored and facilitated exchange programs. Since its inception in 2011, AEIF has supported nearly 500 projects globally. For 2025, proposals are expected to align with themes such as English language instruction and learning, women’s economic empowerment, peace and reconciliation, justice and rule of law, and education and teaching. Funded projects must be public diplomacy in nature and involve teams of at least two alumni. The anticipated performance period is 6 to 12 months, beginning no earlier than July 1, 2025. The program will allocate a total of $70,000, with individual awards ranging from $5,000 to $35,000. Two awards are expected, subject to the availability of funds. Eligible applicants must be alumni of U.S. government-sponsored or facilitated exchange programs, forming teams of at least two members. U.S. citizen alumni may not submit proposals but can serve as team members. Alumni associations, NGOs, think tanks, and academic institutions may collaborate as implementation partners but are not eligible to apply independently. Cost sharing or matching funds are not required, but applicants must meet registration requirements, including obtaining a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and being registered in SAM.gov. Applications must address the program’s goals and themes in clear, detailed proposals not exceeding six pages. Required components include a proposal summary, problem statement, goals, objectives, timeline, personnel qualifications, project partners, and a monitoring and evaluation plan. Additionally, a budget justification narrative and key supporting documents such as resumes of personnel and letters of support from partners are mandatory. Applications should be submitted via email to banguigrants@state.gov no later than February 28, 2025, at 11:59 PM GMT+1. Applicants are strongly encouraged to register with SAM.gov early, as registration can take several weeks. The evaluation process will prioritize program quality and feasibility, the applicant's capacity and track record, and the clarity of goals and objectives. Proposals must demonstrate strong community engagement, sustainability, and alignment with the AEIF themes. Additional emphasis is placed on monitoring and evaluation, budget realism, and adherence to equity and inclusivity principles. The selection committee will also assess the applicant’s plans for media outreach and U.S. Embassy recognition during the project. Successful applicants will receive funding agreements specifying terms and conditions. Payments will require submission of a Request for Advance or Reimbursement form. Awardees must submit periodic financial and programmatic reports as outlined in their award agreements. Funds may not be used for prohibited activities, such as encouraging mass migration caravans, or for specific restricted uses, such as alcoholic beverages. Applicants are encouraged to thoroughly review applicable federal regulations and ensure their proposals comply with all requirements. For questions or assistance during the application process, applicants may contact the U.S. Embassy Bangui via the email provided. This funding opportunity offers alumni an excellent chance to leverage their skills and networks to create impactful, innovative solutions in their communities.