PDS-BUD-FY25-APS001 U.S. Embassy Budapest, FY25 Annual Program Statement

The U.S. Embassy in Budapest, through its Public Diplomacy Section, is offering funding opportunities via its FY25 Annual Program Statement (APS). This grant initiative is part of the U.S. Department of State’s broader public diplomacy mission to enhance relationships between the American and Hungarian people. The funding stems from FY2025 Public Diplomacy allocations under legislation such as the Smith-Mundt Act and the Fulbright-Hays Act. Proposals must explicitly incorporate an American element, which may include involvement from U.S. experts, American cultural products, or the dissemination of knowledge about U.S. policy and values. The primary objective of this funding program is to foster mutual understanding and showcase the benefits of the U.S.-Hungarian partnership. Priority themes for FY2025 include economic ties and trade awareness, American advancements in science and technology, and cultural contributions in film, music, and sport. Proposals should align with at least one of these thematic areas and aim to demonstrate how the initiative contributes to America's safety, strength, and prosperity. All proposed projects must include an American component as a central feature. Funding amounts range from $2,500 to $25,000, with most awarded proposals typically receiving between $5,000 and $10,000. The grant period is flexible from three to twelve months, and projects should commence no later than September 30, 2025. The Embassy may also consider continuation grants beyond the initial term, subject to successful progress and availability of funds. The type of funding instrument may be a grant, a fixed amount award, or a cooperative agreement, with varying levels of embassy involvement. Eligibility is open to U.S. and Hungarian not-for-profit organizations, individuals, educational institutions, and governmental bodies. For-profit and commercial entities are not eligible. Only one application per organization is allowed; multiple submissions will render all proposals from that organization ineligible. While cost sharing is not mandatory, it is encouraged and should be outlined in the budget. All organizations must obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) from SAM.gov, though individuals are exempt unless operating as a business entity. To apply, applicants must submit a project proposal, a budget narrative, and relevant SF-424 forms via email to BudapestGrants@state.gov. The application must adhere to detailed guidelines, including a six-page limit for proposals and thorough budget justifications. Additional required documents include résumés of key personnel and any necessary letters of support. The deadline for submission is June 15, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. CET, and applicants are advised to apply 3–6 months ahead of the intended project start. Proposals will be evaluated based on criteria such as alignment with Embassy priorities, organizational capacity, feasibility, clear goals, realistic budgeting, effective monitoring, and sustainability. While the Embassy may host information sessions announced on its website and social media, it does not provide pre-consultation on APS-covered topics. Award notifications are generally issued 8–12 weeks after submission. Payment will be disbursed in installments aligned with program milestones.

Ensure proposal includes a clear American component, aligns with one of the three priority themes, and provides thorough monitoring and evaluation details. Attend Embassy info sessions if available.