2025 Annual Program Statement, Harare PD

The U.S. Embassy Zimbabwe in Harare, under the U.S. Department of State, has announced the Annual Program Statement (APS) 2025 for Public Diplomacy Small Grants. This grant program is intended to strengthen the connections between the United States and Zimbabwe by supporting projects that promote shared values and goals. The opportunity emphasizes an American component, such as U.S. experts participating in Zimbabwean projects or Zimbabweans engaging in exchanges with the U.S. It aims to support civil society, media, academic institutions, creative communities, and advocacy groups in Zimbabwe. The funding available for this program totals $250,000 USD, subject to funding availability. Grants will range from $10,000 to $40,000, with most awards falling between $15,000 and $30,000. The U.S. Embassy anticipates funding up to 10 projects. The program length is between 2 to 18 months, and projects are expected to start on a rolling basis beginning in January 2025. Funding will be provided in the form of grants, fixed amount awards (FAA), or cooperative agreements, with some grants involving substantial involvement from the U.S. Embassy. Eligible applicants include registered not-for-profit organizations, civil society organizations, individuals, and educational institutions from both the United States and Zimbabwe, with preference given to local Zimbabwean applicants. For-profit entities are not eligible. While cost-sharing or matching funds are not required, they are encouraged. Organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and be registered in SAM.gov, but individuals are exempt from this requirement. The program seeks proposals in areas such as democratic principles, media freedom, economic inclusion, U.S.-Zimbabwean university partnerships, technology innovation, professional networking, and social inclusion. Projects should align with the two primary mission goals: promoting democratic governance and fostering a market-oriented economy. Beneficiaries of the program include civil society groups, media professionals, university administrators, creative professionals, advocacy organizations, tech startups, SMEs, and marginalized communities. Applications must include a detailed project proposal, budget justification, and supporting documents such as CVs of key personnel and letters of support from partners. Required forms include SF-424, SF-424A, and SF-424B. Applications must be submitted via email to PublicDiplomacyGrants-ZIM@state.gov. The deadline for submission is August 1, 2025. Applications will be evaluated based on goals and objectives, alignment with U.S. Embassy priorities, budget feasibility, monitoring and evaluation plans, sustainability, and organizational capacity. Applicants will be notified of their selection status by October 15, 2025. For questions regarding the application process, applicants may contact MawereR@state.gov or PublicDiplomacyGrants-ZIM@state.gov.