U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) 2025 Grants Program

The U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) 2025 Grants Program, managed by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs at the U.S. Department of State, seeks to support projects that preserve cultural heritage worldwide. The program focuses on protecting historic buildings, archaeological sites, museum collections, and traditional cultural expressions such as indigenous languages and crafts. Eligible projects may include activities like conservation, restoration, documentation, stabilization, and preventive conservation of cultural heritage assets. The grant performance period ranges from 12 to 60 months, with award amounts varying between $25,000 and $500,000. The total estimated funding available for this cycle is approximately $6 million, with 25 to 35 awards anticipated. Proposed programs should begin around September 1, 2025. Eligible applicants include foreign institutions of higher education, foreign-based NGOs, foreign public entities, public international organizations, U.S. institutions of higher education, and U.S. non-profit organizations under IRS section 501(c)(3). All applicants must have an active registration in SAM.gov and a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). There is no cost-sharing requirement, though contributions are welcome and must be reported if included in the proposal. The program prioritizes community involvement, sustainable maintenance plans, and effective public outreach strategies. Applications must consist of a two-round process. Round 1 requires a concept note summarizing the project and supporting attachments like high-quality images or audiovisual documentation. If selected, Round 2 applicants must submit a full proposal, including an updated project description, detailed budget, key personnel qualifications, a maintenance plan, and a public outreach strategy. Certain activities and costs are ineligible, such as archaeological research for purely academic purposes, conservation of privately-owned property, construction of new buildings, and relocation of cultural sites unless under imminent threat. Successful applications will clearly outline goals, provide well-justified budgets, and demonstrate a logical connection between activities, outputs, and intended results. Applications must be submitted via email to jakartapasgrants@state.gov by January 15, 2025, at 23:59 WIB. A risk assessment will be conducted before awarding funds, considering factors like financial stability, management systems, and past performance. Award notices will be issued via email, and reporting requirements will include periodic financial and performance updates. For further information, applicants are encouraged to consult the guidelines on SAM.gov and Grants.gov and to reach out to the Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta.