Statement of Interest (SOI): Promoting Ties Between the United States and Fiji, Kiribati, Tuvalu and/or Nauru

The U.S. Embassy Suva’s Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) under the U.S. Department of State has issued a Statement of Interest (SOI) under the opportunity number PDS-SUVA-FY25-01. This grant opportunity seeks to promote stronger ties between the United States and four Pacific Island nations—Fiji, Kiribati, Tuvalu, and Nauru. The initiative aligns with public diplomacy objectives and is financed through Fiscal Year 2025 Smith-Mundt Public Diplomacy Funding, subject to availability. The core purpose of the grant is to support programs that highlight U.S. interests and values, deepen bilateral cooperation, and feature an American component such as collaboration with U.S. experts or institutions. Thematic priorities include enhancing regional security cooperation, fostering economic and entrepreneurial development, promoting STEM education through partnerships with vocational institutions, and increasing cultural understanding—especially in anticipation of the United States' 250th anniversary in 2026. Projects must explicitly connect with both the U.S. and the eligible Pacific Islands. Eligibility extends to not-for-profit organizations, educational institutions, public international organizations, governmental institutions, and individuals, provided they maintain a physical presence in one of the eligible Pacific countries. For-profit entities and projects lacking a U.S. or Pacific Island component are ineligible, as are proposals focusing on DEI, partisan political activities, religious content, or general fundraising. Applicants must first submit a three-page SOI by June 23, 2025, at 11:59 PM Fiji time via email to [email protected]. This SOI serves as a preliminary proposal that, if approved, will lead to an invitation to submit a full proposal. The performance period for selected projects must not exceed 18 months. Awards may take the form of grants, fixed amount awards (FAAs), or cooperative agreements, with up to three awards expected ranging from $10,000 to $25,000 each, depending on total funding availability of $50,000. Evaluation criteria emphasize program quality, organizational capacity, and feasibility. Substantial involvement from the U.S. Embassy may occur in cooperative agreements, including input on program design and implementation. Applicants must ensure compliance with U.S. federal anti-discrimination laws and specific certification requirements, particularly if they are institutions of higher education. The review process will be conducted by a merit-based committee, and applicants whose SOIs are successful will receive further instructions on submitting full applications. Additional compliance includes adherence to regulations found in 2 CFR parts 200 and others, emphasizing transparency, American-made products, and the freedom of speech and religion.