International Development Grants

The "U.S. Embassy Philippines PAS Annual Program Statement" grant aims to strengthen U.S.-Philippines relations by funding projects that highlight shared values and promote bilateral cooperation, incorporating American cultural elements or connections, and can include public talks, workshops, cultural programs, alumni initiatives, STEM programs, capacity-building workshops for youth and leaders, or studies on the bilateral relationship.

The Empowering Female Community Leaders project will train female and male community leaders in vulnerable Upper West Region communities to strengthen their skills in conflict resolution and prevent violent extremism. As a result, female leaders will gain leadership skills and will be empowered to resist the threat of violent extremism growing from community conflicts along with their male counterparts. The trainings will focus on female community leader inclusion to empower women to take a larger role in community leadership.

The Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to carry out a project to strengthen independent media entities and their members as well as local organizations that will support independent media in Central America. This project will assist in conducting better investigations and provide fact-based reporting on crime and corruption through an evolving media landscape to inform populations and hold power-holders accountable, improving transparency and accountability in Central America.

The U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi is pleased to announce an open competition to apply for the Media Sustainability Program aimed at supporting the sustainability of media organizations that inform Georgian audiences through a grants program. The program seeks to support media outlets looking to develop business and media management skills. It also supports outlets looking to build data or technological skills as a means of enhancing media sustainability. Program Objectives: The objective of the program is to provide support to media organizations in enhancing their sustainability by offering grants to address the following priorities: Develop or update business models to adapt to the rapidly changing media landscape. Implement strategies to better understand key audiences and inform decision-making. Improve digital presence. Integrate new technologies to improve efficiency. Explore opportunities for diverse revenue streams (one example could be offering production services to external clients). Collaborations with a U.S. expert or with a private sector entity are looked upon favorably.

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement (PM/WRA) is pleased to invite eligible organizations to submit applications for a cooperative agreement to conduct physical security and stockpile management (PSSM) support in Jordan during fiscal year 2024. Specific goals, objectives, and technical requirements for application packages are detailed below. PM/WRA anticipates awarding up to $2,400,000 under this funding opportunity.

Africa Regional Services, Bureau of African Affairs Office of Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs (AF/PDPA) of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition to submit applications to organize a training on Understanding and Countering Disinformation for African Journalists. The program aims to empower journalists with the skills and knowledge to effectively counter misinformation and disinformation, ensuring accurate and responsible reporting. The series of workshops should include but are not limited to the following topics: Understanding and Identifying Misinformation/Disinformation and its Impact Fact-Checking, Online/Offline Content Verification Methods, Recognizing Red Flags and Manipulative Tactics Ethical Reporting and Considerations in the Age of Misinformation/Disinformation Strategies for Countering Disinformation Combatting Online Abuse Against Journalists and Building Resilience Misinformation and Disinformation in the Age of Artificial Intelligence The project will be conducted in French and English, virtually over six months. It will consist of online presentations and dialogues between American experts and African audience, discussing theories and case studies, and sharing best practices, strategies, and resources. Budget permitting the project will design an in-person colloquium with selected participants. The project should also provide a strategy for and facilitate peer-to-peer contact and content sharing between program participants following program completion. All subject matter experts must be American citizens. Targeted countries are sub-Saharan African countries, with a priority given to West African countries. Please follow all instructions below. Background: The extensive spread of false information poses a significant obstacle to the stability and prosperity of African nations. Those orchestrating elaborate disinformation schemes targeting African media are leveraging the rapid expansion and accessibility of digital communication channels to overhaul the continent's information landscape at a pace and scale previously unattainable through traditional means. A clear correlation exists between the extent of disinformation and societal unrest. False narratives have directly incited violent conflicts, supported political turmoil, intimidated members of civil society into silence, and obscured acts of corruption and exploitation. These actions have tangible repercussions, eroding the rights, freedoms, and security of African populations. Furthermore, rapid advancements in technology pave the way for AI-driven content to further sow seeds of distrust and disorder within democratic systems. Africa Regional Services announces a call for institutional partners and individuals with extensive experience and capacity in training and outreach among African media organizations in the field of countering disinformation to submit proposals for online and in-person training of African journalists on disinformation. Subject to availability of funds, Africa Regional Services will award a grant as described below. The successful applicant must have previous experience managing the award amount of $250,000 or greater and must demonstrate capacity to manage a continent-wide grant in countering disinformation. The criteria for the competition should ensure that proposals be tailored toward African audiences. Proposed projects should include monitoring and evaluation plans. Project Audience(s): Male and female African journalists/reporters from print, broadcast, and digital media outlets. Must ensure gender balance among target audience aged 25 to 50. Project Goal: The program will help improve the quality of news in African countries through capacity building of journalists to counter misinformation/disinformation, while utilizing American subject-matter expertise. Project Objectives: Projects should be designed to achieve the following: Objective 1: Increase the professional capacity of African journalists through training workshops on countering misinformation/disinformation. Objective 2: Participants to develop and publish stories showcasing the application of skills acquired in the training sessions. Priority Regions: Sub-Saharan African countries including but not limited to Cote DIvoire, Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, Central Africa, Sierra Leone, Guinea Conakry, Chad, Cameroon, Togo, Benin. Program Performance Period: Proposed programs should be completed in 12 months or less. Africa Regional Services may entertain applications for continuation grants funded under these awards beyond the initial budget period on a non-competitive basis subject to availability of funds, satisfactory progress of the program, and a determination that continued funding would be in the best interest of the U.S. Department of State. This notice is subject to availability of funding. Other Eligibility Requirements In order to be eligible to receive an award, all organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number issued via www.SAM.gov as well as a valid registration on www.SAM.gov. Individuals are not required to have a UEI or be registered in SAM.gov. Applicants are only allowed to submit one proposal per organization. If more than one proposal is submitted from an organization, all proposals from that institution will be considered ineligible for funding. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION Address to Request Application Package Application forms required below are available at www.grants.gov. Content and Form of Application Submission Please follow all instructions below carefully. Proposals that do not meet the requirements of this announcement or fail to comply with the stated requirements will be ineligible. Please ensure: The proposal clearly addresses the goals and objectives of this funding opportunity All documents are in English All budgets are in U.S. dollars All pages are numbered All documents are formatted to 8 x 11 paper, and All Microsoft Word documents are single-spaced, 12 point Calibri font, with a minimum of 1-inch margins. The following documents are required: Mandatory application forms SF-424(Application for Federal Assistance organizations)or SF-424-I(Application for Federal Assistance--individuals)atwww.grants.gov. SF-424A(Budget Information for Non-Construction programs) at www.grants.gov. SF-424B(Assurances for Non-Construction programs) at www.grants.gov. Summary Page:Cover sheet stating the applicant name and organization, proposal date, program title, program period proposed start and end date, and brief purpose of the program. Proposal (10 pages maximum):The proposal should contain sufficient information that anyone not familiar with it would understand exactly what the applicant wants to do. You may use your own proposal format, but it must include all the items below. Proposal Summary: Short narrative that outlines the proposed program, including program objectives and anticipated impact. Introduction to the Organization or Individual applying: A description of past and present operations, showing ability to carry out the program, including information on all previous grants from the U.S. Embassy and/or U.S. government agencies. Problem Statement: Clear, concise and well-supported statement of the problem to be addressed and why the proposed program is needed Program Goals and Objectives: The goals describe what the program is intended to achieve. The objectives refer to the intermediate accomplishments on the way to the goals. These should be achievable and measurable. Program Activities: Describe the program activities and how they will help achieve the objectives. Program Methods and Design: A description of how the program is expected to work to solve the stated problem and achieve the goal. Include a logic model as appropriate. Proposed Program Schedule and Timeline: The proposed timeline for the program activities. Include the dates, times, and locations of planned activities and events. Key Personnel:Names, titles, roles and experience/qualifications of key personnel involved in the program. What proportion of their time will be used in support of this program? Program Partners: List the names and type of involvement of key partner organizations and sub-awardees. Program Monitoring and Evaluation Plan:This is an important part of successful grants. Throughout the time-frame of the grant, how will the activities be monitored to ensure they are happening in a timely manner, and how will the program be evaluated to make sure it is meeting the goals of the grant? Future Funding or SustainabilityApplicants plan for continuing the program beyond the grant period, or the availability of other resources, if applicable. Budget Justification Narrative: After filling out the SF-424A Budget (above), use a separate file to describe each of the budget expenses in detail. See sectionH. Other Information: Guidelines for Budget Submissionsbelow for further information. Attachments: 1-page CV or resume of key personnel who are proposed for the program Letters of support from program partners describing the roles and responsibilities of each partner If your organization has a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) and includes NICRA charges in the budget, your latest NICRA should be included as a PDF file. Official permission letters, if required for program activities Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM.gov) Required Registrations All organizations, whether based in the United States or in another country, must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and an active registration with the SAM.gov. A UEI is one of the data elements mandated by Public Law 109-282, the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act (FFATA), for all Federal awards. Note: As of April 2022, a DUNS number is no longer required for federal assistance applications. The 2 CFR 200 requires that sub-grantees obtain a UEI number. Please note the UEI for sub-grantees is not required at the time of application but will be required before an award is processed and/or directed to a sub-grantee. Note: The process of obtaining or renewing a SAM.gov registration may take anywhere from 4-8 weeks. Please begin your registration as early as possible. Organizations based in the United States or that pay employees within the United States will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and a UEI number prior to registering in SAM.gov. Organizations based outside of the United States and that do not pay employees within the United States do not need an EIN from the IRS but do need a UEI number prior to registering in SAM.gov. Exemptions An exemption from the UEI and sam.gov registration requirements may be permitted on a case-by-case basis if: An applicants identity must be protected due to potential endangerment of their mission, their organizations status, their employees, or individuals being served by the applicant. For an applicant, if the Federal awarding agency makes a determination that there are exigent circumstances that prohibit the applicant from receiving a unique entity identifier and completing SAM registration prior to receiving a Federal award. In these instances, Federal awarding agencies must require the recipient to obtain a unique entity identifier and complete SAM registration within 30 days of the Federal award date. Organizations requesting exemption from UEI or SAM.gov requirements must email the point of contact listed in the NOFO at least two weeks prior to the deadline in the NOFO providing a justification of their request. Approval for a SAM.gov exemption must come from the warranted Grants Officer before the application can be deemed eligible for review. Submission Dates and Times Applications are due no later than June 15, 2024. Other Submission Requirements All application materials must be submitted by email to [email protected]. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION Criteria Each application will be evaluated and rated on the basis of the evaluation criteria outlined below: Quality and Feasibility of the Program Idea 25 points: The program idea is well developed, with detail about how program activities will be carried out. The proposal includes a reasonable implementation timeline. Organizational Capacity and Record on Previous Grants 15 points: The organization has expertise in its stated field and has the internal controls in place to manage federal funds. This includes a financial management system and a bank account. Program Content 15 points: Objectives are clear and content is clearly linked to the U.S. and is likely to provide maximum impact in achieving the proposed results. Budget 15 points: The budget justification is detailed. Costs are reasonable in relation to the proposed activities and anticipated results. The budget is realistic, accounting for all necessary expenses to achieve proposed activities. Monitoring and evaluation plan 15 points: Applicant demonstrates it is able to measure program success against key indicators and provides milestones to indicate progress toward goals outlined in the proposal. The program includes output and outcome indicators, and shows how and when those will be measured. Sustainability 10 points: Program activities will continue to have positive impact after the end of the program. Review and Selection Process A review committee will evaluate all eligible applications.

The Office of Academic Exchange Programs (ECA/A/E), Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for a cooperative agreement to assist in the administration of the FY 2025 Fulbright Student Program. The Fulbright Student Program is a major component of the worldwide Fulbright Program, which also includes the Fulbright Scholar and Fulbright Specialist Programs, as well as the Fulbright Teacher Exchange Program and the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program. For over 75 years, the Fulbright Student Program has offered awards for college and university graduates to engage in degree study, to teach, and to conduct research abroad and in the United States. The hallmark of the Fulbright Student Program is the selection of all participants through open and transparent merit-based competition. Tens of thousands of U.S. and foreign students have participated in these academic exchanges since the Fulbright Program's inception in 1946. The Fulbright Student Program sends approximately 1,908 U.S. students and early career professionals abroad annually to conduct independent research, serve as teaching assistants and cultural resources in English classrooms, and pursue academic studies at overseas institutions. Reciprocally, the program brings approximately 2,150 foreign participants from approximately 160 countries to the United States for similar activities hosted primarily by U.S. colleges and universities. Responsibility for the management of the Fulbright Student Program is shared between the U.S. Department of State in Washington, DC, 49 bilateral Fulbright commissions, approximately 100 U.S. embassies overseas, and private sector cooperating agencies in the United States. Overall policies and selection guidelines for the Fulbright Student Program are determined by the presidentially appointed J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board (FFSB). The organization(s) awarded a cooperative agreement under this competition will be responsible for placement, monitoring, organization of enrichment activities for program participants, disbursement of funds, and records management for the FY 2025 cohort of U.S. students and foreign students as well as the program promotion and recruitment and selection of the FY 2026 cohort of U.S. and foreign students. This work will be supervised by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Please see the full announcement for additional information.

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement (PM/WRA) is pleased to invite eligible organizations to submit applications for a cooperative agreement to conduct a physical security and stockpile management program (PSSM) in Somalia during fiscal year 2025. Specific goals, objectives, and technical requirements for application packages are detailed below. PM/WRA anticipates awarding up to $4,000,000 under this funding opportunity.

Purpose of Public Diplomacy Grants: PDS Embassy Dushanbe invites proposals for programs that strengthen ties between the United States and Tajikistan in priority program areas (see below) in order to highlight shared values and promote bilateral cooperation. All proposed programs must include an American element, either through a connection with American expert/s, organization/s, or institutions/s, usage of American educational/informational resources, or any other activities that promote or contribute to increased mutual understanding between the people of the United States and people of Tajikistan. Competitive proposals will promote continued and sustainable cooperation between the people of the United States and Tajikistan even after the project concludes. Competitive proposals will include partnership with Tajik governmental bodies, and to organizations that have a demonstrated track record of implementing such programs. Examples of programs could include, but are not limited to: Academic or professional exchanges, lectures, seminars, trainings, speaker programs, or workshops; and Artistic, cultural, or sports workshops, masterclasses, joint performances, and/or exhibitions. PDS welcomes proposals that support one of the following priority program areas: TOPIC 1: Counter Gender-based Violence (GBV) Domestic violence (DV) and gender-based violence (GBV) remains a serious issue in Tajikistanand much of the world. In a USAID-funded survey in Tajikistan, 97% of men and 60% of women believed spousal abuse was justified. Cases of GBV and DV are underreported because victims wish to avoid humiliation, reprisal, or social stigmatization, or believe it may have been warranted. Further, authorities wishing to promote traditional gender roles frequently dismiss domestic violence as a family matter or only gave a warning or fine. Government resources for survivors are also limited. Project Audience(s) may include: Religiously or socially conservative communities, especially Tajik men (18-50 years old) High school students (14-18 years old.) Youth and emerging leaders (18-35 years old.) University teachers and students. Labor migrants and spouses of labor migrants. Tajik advocacy groups. Government bodies. Independent media including bloggers and vloggers Countering Gender-Based Violence Project Goal: Empower civil society and communities in Tajikistan to prevent and prosecute cases of Domestic Violence (DV) or Gender-Based Violence (GBV) through community-led initiatives. Project Objectives (may address one or more of the following): Messaging campaigns or awareness raising activities, such as sports diplomacy, should engage and target both men and women. Having men as the face of campaigns, or having men speak to men standing against GBV, demonstrates solidarity and emphasizes that eradicating gender-based violence is the collective responsibility of everyone, regardless of gender. Improve collaboration between civil society, independent media, and the government to identify and address gaps in existing laws and policies that criminalize GBV/DV, provide protections for victims, and establish legal frameworks for persecution. Raise awareness among vulnerable populations about laws, rights, and support services concerning early marriage, domestic abuse, harassment, divorce, alimony, and other civil rights. TOPIC 2: Promoting Womens Economic Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Due to the high rate of male labor migration and unemployment, more Tajik women are exploring ways to financially support their households and communities. However, women entrepreneurs' activities are highly dependent on the effectiveness of the business environment in the country. Moreover, the mountainous regions throughout the country challenge the development of entrepreneurship, as does lack of information, limited access to financing for starting a business, and other socio-economic conditions. Nevertheless, successful small business development creates new employment opportunities in Tajikistan and helps women support themselves and their families. Small businesses are fast becoming the main source of income for women in Tajikistan. Proposed projects should enhance womens participation, promotion, and longevity in the Tajik economy and ability to assume leadership positions. Projects should clearly support the protection of economic rights for women and increase respect for womens rights in society to improve their independence and proactive role in Tajik society. Project Audience(s) may include: Women from rural areas (including the spouses of labor migrants) and women entrepreneurs. Small businesses in rural areas. Business associations. Financial and government institutions. Tourism agencies (including guesthouse and small hotels). Community leaders and youth demonstrating leadership potential in these areas. Womens Economic Empowerment Project Goal: Increase the capacity of women from underserved, rural communities, including the spouses of labor migrants, to participate or increase their participation in the Tajik economy. Improve women's economic opportunities in Tajikistan by increasing the capacity of women to start, establish, or expand their own companies. Project Objectives (may address one or more of the following): Develop the business and technical skills of women in rural communities to increase employability, launch and/or improve their own businesses. Establish and conduct activities with a professional network for women from under-represented communities, including the spouses of labor migrants, to support mentorship relationships and collaborative initiatives among network members that go beyond the conclusion of project activities. o Projects could connect womens entrepreneurship in the development of tourism around newly recognized UNESCO heritage sites. o Increase awareness of tourism initiatives and employment opportunities centered around newly designated UNESCO heritage sites. o Projects could seek to increase participation of women from underserved and target communities in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Increase womens knowledge and understanding about their legal rights in society and how to advocate for the respect of those rights. o Increase womens knowledge and understanding about their legal rights in the workplace, including rights related to employment, equal pay, job security, and access to economic opportunities. o Equip Tajik women with the ability to advocate for the recognition and enforcement of these rights. Promote womens economic empowerment and entrepreneurship through support from start-up hubs, corporate social responsibility, and/or access to finance. Emphasis should be placed on strengthening chambers of commerce, entrepreneurs, and core private sector industries through interactions or linkages with U.S. counterparts. o Facilitate access to funding resources and financing opportunities for women entrepreneurs to launch and grow their businesses. o Strengthen organizational capacities of chambers of commerce to support business development of aspiring female entrepreneurs. o Facilitate interactions and linkages between women entrepreneurs, chambers of commerce, startup hubs, and private sector industries in Tajikistan and their U.S. counterparts. TOPIC 3: Sharing America with Tajikistan The United States values innovation, creativity, critical thinking, freedom of expression, democratic principles, economic growth, and security. The United States supports a sovereign and independent Tajikistan, which includes support for a well-informed, discerning public who can inoculate itself against disinformation. Both the United States and Tajikistan have rich cultural traditions as shown in literature and storytelling, theater and performing arts, film, music, dance, sport, and education. Educational, cultural, and other exchange activities are a great way to engage the public, especially at-risk youth and those with neutral views or misconceptions about the United States, in order to bridge our cultures, deepen understanding, and discuss topics of mutual importance. Proposed projects should strengthen understanding between the United States and Tajikistan and advance areas of mutual interest by leveraging the experiences and lessons learned from the United States, while respecting cultural differences. Project Audience(s) may include: Tajik audiences who have not had exposure to the United States before. Youth 16-35. Academia, professors, and teachers. Civil society, non-government organizations, and associations/organizations promoting shared values or areas of mutual interest. Information professionals (media outlets, managers, editors, journalists, influencers). Religious and community leaders. Entrepreneurs and business community advocacy organizations. National and subnational government officials. Project Goal: To share American values, such as freedom of expression, respect for human rights, and celebrate/promote respect for diversity and social inclusion, while also improving access to objective information and increase media literacy and critical thinking skills to analyze mis and disinformation aimed at the United States. Project Objectives (may address one or more of the following): Raise awareness about shared U.S.-Tajik values and partnerships through trainings, workshops, masterclasses, joint performances, or other projects by U.S. and/or Tajik experts. Increase access to American content by Tajik audiences (such as book translations) that promote U.S. democratic and rights-based values. Increase collaboration between local, state, and civil society actors/stakeholders on well-defined social issues affecting both the United States and Tajikistan by sharing U.S. models of government-community engagement, or by working with U.S. experts/peers. Increase the effectiveness of individuals, organizations, and coalitions working to advance and/or advocate for respect and the promotion of human rights. Strengthen the ability of Tajik media professionals to develop accurate and fact-based informational media campaigns through digital skills building and training initiatives based on U.S.-best practices. Increase production and publication of objective, fact-based and editorially diverse media content by Tajik media professionals. Increase critical thinking skills, especially for youth and publics with a neutral or view or misconceptions about the United States, to identify and critically analyze sources of misinformation and disinformation. In addition to the specific requirements listed above by program area, all proposals must: 1. Clearly indicate the primary activity area to which it is being submitted for consideration. 2. Focus on the key public diplomacy audiences and activities specified in the areas, provide programs for underserved geographic regions of Tajikistan, as well as non-elite schools (if applicable); 3. Clearly delineate how elements of their program will have a multiplier effect and be sustainable beyond the life of the grant; 4. Provide a traditional and/or social media plan for marketing program activities and outcome, if applicable 5. Identify the cities/districts in which activities will take place. 6. Identify specific outcomes to be achieved by the end of the grant period. 7. Identify any tools (surveys, beneficiary interviews, focus groups, etc.) that will be developed for Monitoring and Evaluation purposes. Applicants must also demonstrate competency to manage all financial aspects of the project, including participant costs and transparent arrangements of sub-grant relationships with partner organizations, if applicable.

The Office of English Language Programs (ECA/A/L) of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs announces an open competition for the FY 2024 Online Professional English Network (OPEN) Program, which offers foreign English teaching professionals and language learners the opportunity for professional development through high-quality, accessible, and openly licensed virtual resources, including online English language teacher development courses, online English language learning courses, virtual exchanges, webinars, an alumni community of practice (CoP), multiple social media channels, and other types of engaging and innovative online learning. In cooperation with ECA/A/L, the award recipient will manage the selection, development, and delivery of appropriate online TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) learning courses which will be offered to English language educators or learners on an easily accessible online learning management system (LMS). Courses, webinars, and other virtual programming may be offered globally, regionally, or to specific countries at the request of U.S. embassies. Courses and exchanges are developed by U.S. academic institutions, educational NGOs, or TESOL professional associations, while webinars and other social media programming are developed by U.S.-based TESOL professionals. All content produced for this program should be accessible according to Section 508 compliance standards, openly licensed with a Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) License, and follow best practices for diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA). ECA/A/L anticipates an unlimited number of English language professionals, educators, and learners will benefit from the openly licensed virtual programming, webinars, massive open online courses (MOOCs), and content developed under this award. U.S. public and private non-profit organizations meeting the provisions described in Internal Revenue Code, Section 26 U.S.C 501 (c) (3) may submit proposals to administer and manage the FY 2024 OPEN Program. It is ECA/A/Ls intent to award one cooperative agreement in the amount of $6,000,000, pending the availability of FY 2024 funds, to an applicant that has the ability to achieve these objectives and provide the necessary infrastructure and experience. ECA/A/L reserves the right to reduce, revise, or increase proposal budgets and participant numbers in accordance with the needs of the program and the availability of funds. Please see the full announcement for additional information.

The Global Leaders Division in the Office of Citizen Exchanges at the U.S. Department of States Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) invites proposal submissions to design, administer, and implement the FY 2024 Arctic Indigenous Exchange Program (AIEP). This new initiative will bring together approximately 50 Indigenous leaders, including business development professionals, government officials, and entrepreneurs from Canada, the Kingdom of Denmark (Greenland), and the United States (Alaska), for a multi-phase exchange program to explore areas of regional cooperation across the Arctic. The goal of this program is to strengthen people-to-people relationships, advance cooperation, and foster greater commercial and cultural ties between Arctic Indigenous populations in the United States, Canada, and Greenland across a range of priority areas. U.S. public and private non-profit organizations meeting the provisions described in Internal Revenue Code section 26 USC 501(c)(3) may submit proposals to provide a series of exchange projects ranging in size and scope, focused on critical topics to Arctic Indigenous communities in Greenland, Canada, and the United States (specifically Alaska), including sustainable economic development, climate and the environment, and health and well-being. It is anticipated that this cooperative agreement will support approximately three to six distinct exchange projects for approximately 50 participants, including approximately 35 foreign and 15 U.S. participants. Exchange activities may include, but are not limited to, regional workshops, summits, and alumni activities, as appropriate in any of the three participating countries.For additional details please see the full announcement.

The Office of Citizen Exchanges at the U.S. Department of States Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) invites proposals for the FY 2024 Leaders Lead On-Demand program (LLOD). LLOD takes ideas generated across the U.S. Department of State and develops them into uniquely tailored, multi-segmented projects. LLOD supports U.S. foreign policy goals by enabling ECA to quickly respond to emerging foreign policy priorities. U.S. public and private non-profit organizations meeting the provisions described in Internal Revenue Code section 26 USC 501(c)(3) may submit proposals to provide a series of multi-segmented exchange projects ranging in size and scope, each involving current or potential government, business, and civil society leaders. It is anticipated that this cooperative agreement will support four to six distinct exchange projects for approximately 75 participants including approximately 55 foreign participants and 20 from the United States.A central component of each project will include a group of foreign participants who will ideally travel to the United States for an intensive, tailored program. Activities could offer a range of program components that may include participation in workshops, meetings, events, mentorships, or working placements in U.S. organizations or businesses. Any U.S.-based program should be complemented by at least one additional segment overseas that should include U.S. participants. Both foreign and U.S. participants should have experience or expertise in the field of the exchange project and U.S. participants should engage with the foreign participants during both the U.S. and foreign program components. The award recipient will work closely with ECA, other Department of State representatives, in-country or regionally-based partner organizations, as appropriate, to recruit, screen, and select the participants and develop program activities that best address the specific project goal(s). The final list of participants should be approved by ECA. U.S. participants will be selected in close consultation with ECA. Additional project components, such as regional gatherings of participants overseas, small grants competitions, or local trainings should be developed, as appropriate, based on the scope and goals of the specific exchange. Please see the announcement for additional information.

The Office of Citizen Exchanges, Youth Programs Division of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) announces an FY 2024 open competition for three distinct regional Youth Ambassadors programs (previously called Youth Leadership Programs) with select countries in East Asia and Pacific (EAP), Europe and Eurasia (EUR), and the Middle East and North Africa (NEA). U.S. public and private non-profit organizations meeting the provisions described in Internal Revenue Code section 26 USC 501(c)(3) may submit proposals to provide participants with four-week exchanges in the United States focused on the primary themes of civic education, leadership development, respect for diversity, and community engagement and to support the implementation of service projects in their home communities. The EAP and NEA programs also will engage approximately 3-5 adult mentors in programming alongside youth participants. Competitively selected U.S. secondary students will join participants in U.S.-based activities on the NEA exchanges. Only one proposal per region will be considered by ECA from each applicant organization. In cases where more than one submission per region from an applicant appears in grants.gov, ECA will only consider the submission made closest in time to the NOFO deadline; that submission would constitute the one and only proposal ECA would review for the region from that applicant. Please see the full announcement for additional information.

The U.S. Embassy Tashkent Public Diplomacy Section (PD) of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations or individuals to submit applications to conduct innovative and creative programs to promote and improve English language usage, teaching, and learning for certain specific purposes. As part of the cooperative agreement, priority areas will be identified by Tashkent PD. Potential priority areas include but are not limited to cyber security, law enforcement and forensics, geology and mining, tourism, agriculture, water management, and cultural heritage preservation sectors across Uzbekistan. Proposals must support initiatives such as: improving the English language capacity within one or more of these specific sectors, creating sustainable development models to support the continued development of English language within the identified sector, and increasing the usage of the English language for professional purposes such as publications, international conferences, and international communities of practice. This funding opportunity seeks to improve the quality of English for specific purposes by supporting new programming and projects focused on: increasing English language capacity among those working or studying in designated fields, furthering knowledge of new and innovative ways to support engagement with potential English-speaking partners and developing sustainable programming to support the growth of English within the designated area of study throughout Uzbekistan. More specifically, this opportunity is looking for English language educators and institutions to be creative and establish centers or programs that can increase English language ability for current and future professionals.

The U.S. Embassy Banjul Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of the U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce that funding is available through its Public Diplomacy Small Grants Program. This is an Annual Program Statement, outlining our funding priorities, the strategic themes we focus on, and the procedures for submitting requests for funding. Please carefully follow all instructions below. Purpose of Small Grants: PDS in Banjul, The Gambia invites proposals for programs that strengthen cultural ties between the United States and The Gambia; cultural and exchange programming that highlights shared values and promotes bilateral cooperation. All programs must include an American cultural element, or connection with American expert/s, organization/s, or institution/s in a specific field that will promote increased understanding of U.S. policy and perspectives.

This program to build social cohesion between at-risk groups in northern Ghana and northern Cote dIvoire by improving equitable access to livelihoods in communities hosting refugees and asylum seekers in these regions. Impoverished host communities demonstrate resentment and hostility towards growing refugee/asylum seeker populations in this region as they compete for land, resources, and support from the state and from nongovernmental organizations. Through strengthening inclusive, equitable, and sustainable communal management of land and water resources in communities hosting refugees/asylum seekers, increasing equitable economic exchange between host communities and refugees/asylum seekers, and building conflict management skills in these communities, this program will improve equitable access to livelihoods for at-risk communities, thereby contributing to strengthened social cohesion between these groups in keeping with Objective 1 of the 10-Year Plan to implement the Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability in Coastal West Africa.

SUMMARY: The U.S. Embassyin the PhilippinesPublic Affairs Section (PASPhilippines) of the U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce thatwe are considering proposals for the operational and program development workforthe 2024 American Spaces Philippines Conference. Our funding goals, strategic themes, and processes for submitting grant proposals are all outlined in this notice. Please read carefully and follow all instructions. This notice is subject to the availability of funding. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION PAS Philippines invites individuals, non-profit organizations, and non-government organizations to submit proposals to implement the 2024 American Spaces Philippines Conference. The event is a three-day conference with representatives from American Spaces partner institutions. The intent of this program is to bring together university leaders and American Corner staff members from across the country for a strategic planning session, networking, and capacity-building activities. The Grantee will support the Embassy by fulfilling the logistical, travel, and administrative needs of the conference, as well as providing constructive inputs on the program of the conference. The budget should not be more than $40,000 in total. The successful Grantee must have demonstrable experience in conference management (minimum size of 40 participants), events planning, and high-level customer relations. Grantee must also demonstrate their ability to responsibly manage funds, coordinate logistics, and execute the program plan within the expected timeline. Examples of activities include, but are not limited to: Programming Develop 3 learning sessions that will build the skills of the participants in the areas of project designing, partnership building, and program management. Organize a small exhibit in the venue featuring the projects of the participants Organize a team-building activity for the participants Events Planning Scout and book a conference venue within Luzon, Visayas, or the City of Davao that is accessible to the airport, and major transportation hubs. Coordinate with a hotel for the reservations of all participants, including the processing of required down payments. Prepare financial reports and liquidations of project expenses, including hotel, equipment, food and beverage suppliers, and any relevant subcontractors. Coordinate and arrange a full-board meal for organizers and participants including the accommodation of those with special diets (halal, vegetarian, etc). Arrange overall logistics and ensuring the availability of high-speed wifi, computers, high-resolution web cams, and microphones to accommodate hybrid sessions Organize the plenary hall, any breakout rooms and prepare necessary workshop materials Design, and produce conference kits, and marketing materials such as pull-up banners, event shirts, tokens, tote bags etc. Travel Arrangements Coordinate and book flight itineraries with varying origin destinations. Arrange and book all airport transfer services for participants. Issue plane tickets, room reservations and airport transfer service to each participant. Arrange land transportation for participants as necessary. Organize and pay the travel allowance of the participants. PRIORITY PROGRAM AREAS The program should empower American Spaces partners to increase knowledge on the following priority program areas: Girls/Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Entrepreneurship Innovation and Artificial Intelligence Peace Education Democracy and Human Rights Climate Change and Environmental Protection Participants and Audiences: Target audiences include university presidents from American Spaces-hosting institutions, and library directors and staff. Please note that the following types of programs are NOT eligible for funding: Programs relating to partisan political activity; Charitable, humanitarian, or development activities; Construction programs; Programs that support specific religious activities; Fund-raising campaigns or programs charging a fee for participation; Lobbying for specific legislation or programs; Scientific research; Programs intended primarily for the growth or institutional development of an organization; or Programs that duplicate existing programs; Activities that take place in the United States and its territories; Programs with alcohol, excessive meals, refreshments, or entertainment; and Individual scholarships.

The U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service Pilot (USFCS) Fellowship Program provides an opportunity for Masters degree students in the fields of International Affairs, International Relations, International Studies, Economics, Business, Trade, Public Administration, or Public Policy, to increase their level of knowledge and awareness of the Foreign Commercial Service (FCS) and its vital role in promoting American exports and facilitating trade and commerce around the world. The program also provides a pathway to potential employment with the Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration, Global Markets, and particularly encourages students from underserved communities to apply. The U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service is dedicated to ensuring that diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the core of every action and every decision. Having varied perspectives helps generate better ideas to solve the complex problems of a changing world. It also enables us to be effective stewards and reflect the communities in which we live, work, and play. As such, creating a culture that is welcoming and inclusive of all helps to ensure the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service is able to effectively execute on its mission of creating prosperity by strengthening the international competitiveness of U.S. industry, promoting trade and investment, and ensuring fair trade and compliance with trade laws and agreements. Individuals who are U.S. citizens or U.S. nationals and are in the first year of an eligible Masters degree program, or will complete their first year in the spring or summer of 2024, at a U.S. accredited institution, may apply. Given the structure of the Program, individuals enrolled in Masters degree programs of less than a two-year duration are not eligible to apply. Fellowship selections are based on academic excellence, letters of recommendations, a personal statement, relevant experience, skills demonstrated during interviews, and financial need. Applicants must have either 1) a cumulative 3.30 grade point average (GPA) in their graduate program or 2) have earned a cumulative 3.30 grade point average from undergraduate studies to be eligible to apply. Applicants must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.30 per either semester or quarter for the duration of their Masters degree program. If Fellows engage in fraudulent conduct or fail to comply with any term or condition of the fellowship, funding may be withdrawn, or Fellows may be required to repay monies already received. Additionally, if the selecting official determines that satisfactory progress towards market research and the Fellowship paper is not completed within the timeframe of the award, Fellows may be required to repay any expenses borne by the government for their participation in the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service Pilot Fellowship Program. The U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service Pilot Fellowship Program may provide, subject to appropriations, up to $35,000 of support per person for up to an eight-week fellowship program in an overseas U.S. diplomatic mission. Recipients of a U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service Pilot Fellowship will be required to participate in a mandatory one-week Office of Global Talent Management Orientation and Training in the spring of 2025. As a recipient of the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service Pilot Fellowship, you become a recognized member of the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service community. Global Markets will provide financial resources to help you increase the level of knowledge and awareness of the Foreign Commercial Service (FCS) and how it facilitates the growth of global trade, commerce, and American exports, as well as provide mentorship to assist you with your learning experience. There will be two separate program deliverables required of each Fellow. The first deliverable is the Individual Post Analysis Report (IPAR) which will document the up to eight-week summer enrichment program at an assigned overseas post, summarizing industry sector-focused market research that helps clients understand the opportunities available in selling their specific products and services in a select market as well as any specific tariff or non-tariff regulatory barriers that may impede market access. The IPAR must be submitted by July 31, 2025. During the succeeding Professional Development and Networking phase of the fellowship, which runs from August 2025 through September 2025, the fellows will be assigned their second deliverable, a Capstone Project. Fellows will be provided with the Capstone Project requirements including specific prompts that highlight how they will transfer the knowledge and skills learned through the fellowship into her or his professional career. Mentors will be assigned to enhance the fellows growth and help them understand their own personal career development opportunities. At the culmination of the fellowship, the Fellow will be required in September 2025 to present their project virtually before a diverse panel of ITA/Global Markets senior managers. Fellows must be ready to travel overseas and pass a Security Assurance Check. Placements to an overseas location for the duration of the fellowship are required for every fellow. Federal financial support (grant) for the summer enrichment program may be used toward allowable costs such as: travel to and from the Department of Commerce facility, housing, per diem, books/materials costs. Funds cannot be used toward research costs. Fellows are required to provide their own health insurance coverage during the program collaboration. Health insurance coverage and any supplemental insurance can be paid for with grant funds. More details on allowable costs can be found in 2 CFR part 200, Subpart E Cost Principles. Applications for the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service Pilot Fellowship Program will be assessed on the criteria listed below. As a reminder, if you are in the last year of your Masters program, you are not eligible for this program. For a complete list of review criteria, please see Section V, subsection A. 1. Your statement of intent aligns closely with the International Trade Administration Foreign Commercial Service mission, with a particular interest in a career with the Foreign Commercial Service. This is 30 points of your application score. 2. You have exceptional letters of recommendation. This is 20 points of your application score. 3. Additional relevant experience and communication skills. This is 15 points of your application score.

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement (PM/WRA) is pleased to invite eligible organizations to submit applications for a cooperative agreement to conduct Physical Security and Stockpile Management in the Northern Triangle during fiscal year 2024. Specific goals, objectives, and technical requirements for application packages are detailed below. PM/WRA anticipates awarding up to $5,000,000 under this funding opportunity. PM/WRA may issue multiple awards, however, the sum of all awards will not exceed $5,000,000.

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement (PM/WRA) is pleased to invite eligible organizations to submit applications for a cooperative agreement to conduct a physical security and stockpile management program in Nigeria during fiscal year 2025. Specific goals, objectives, and technical requirements for application packages are detailed below. PM/WRA anticipates awarding up to $500,000 under this funding opportunity.