Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) 2025

The Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) 2025, facilitated by the U.S. Embassy in Bujumbura, seeks proposals from teams of at least two alumni of U.S. government-funded or -sponsored exchange programs. The program, in its 2025 iteration, emphasizes creating innovative solutions to local challenges by leveraging skills acquired during participants' exchange experiences. Since its inception in 2011, AEIF has supported nearly 500 alumni-led projects globally. For 2025, proposals should align with themes of strengthening Burundi’s health and education systems, fostering a stronger economy, and contributing to peace, stability, and regional openness. Proposals must be submitted by February 15, 2025, to BurundiPublicDiplomacy@state.gov. The total funding available for AEIF 2025 projects ranges from $5,000 to $35,000, pending funding availability. Successful projects will have a performance period of 6 to 12 months, starting in June 2025. Funding will be allocated through grants, fixed amount awards, or cooperative agreements. Eligible applicants must be alumni of U.S. exchange programs, working in teams of at least two. While U.S. citizen alumni may not submit proposals, they can participate in project teams. Partnerships with nonprofits, academic institutions, and NGOs are encouraged to aid implementation. Proposals must clearly outline the project’s title, objectives, timeline, beneficiaries, and implementation strategy. Required documents include an application form, budget form with narrative justification, resumes of key personnel, and letters of support from partners. Proposals must include a robust communication plan to promote the project and highlight U.S. Embassy branding. Additionally, applicants must outline their sustainability plan for activities beyond the grant period and provide a detailed monitoring and evaluation (M&E) strategy with specific objectives and measurable outcomes. Applicants must ensure compliance with several administrative requirements, including having a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and active SAM.gov registration. Submissions must adhere to specific formatting guidelines, such as single-spaced text in 12-point Calibri font, and include all mandatory application forms like the SF-424 series. Proposals involving prohibited activities, such as U.S.-based events, salaries, or political campaigns, will not be considered. Proposals will be evaluated by a selection committee based on relevance to program themes, the feasibility of implementation plans, alumni involvement, local community support, and the clarity and realism of budgets. Communication and outreach plans, as well as robust M&E components, will also weigh heavily in the evaluation. Only successful applicants will be notified. Applicants are encouraged to prepare submissions early, particularly for SAM.gov registration, which can take 4 to 8 weeks. For additional details or inquiries, applicants may contact BurundiPublicDiplomacy@state.gov. Note that pre-submission consultations are not available.