Public Diplomacy Small Grants Competition

The U.S. Department of State, through the U.S. Embassy Rangoon Public Diplomacy Section, has announced the Public Diplomacy Small Grants Competition to support programs in Burma that advance U.S. foreign policy priorities. This funding opportunity is part of the Smith Mundt Public Diplomacy Program and is designed to strengthen bilateral engagement while promoting American strategic, economic, and cultural interests. The program emphasizes initiatives that demonstrate American leadership, foster mutual understanding, and align with broader Indo-Pacific policy objectives. The purpose of this grant program is to fund projects that directly contribute to advancing U.S. interests abroad while engaging Burmese audiences in meaningful and reciprocal ways. All proposed projects must include a clear American element, such as participation by U.S. experts, integration of U.S. institutional partnerships, or incorporation of U.S. policy perspectives. The program prioritizes activities that elevate U.S. credibility, strengthen economic ties, and promote American excellence. Key thematic areas include commercial advancement, digital literacy and online safety, English language learning, regional stability, and education. Projects should demonstrate measurable outcomes and tangible benefits aligned with these priorities. Funding is provided through grants ranging from 5000 to 50000 dollars, with a total program allocation of approximately 100000 dollars, subject to availability of funds. Projects must be completed within a performance period of 1 to 12 months, with an anticipated start date around October 1, 2026. While cost sharing is encouraged, it is not required. Allowable expenses include personnel, travel, equipment, supplies, and other direct program costs necessary to achieve project objectives. However, funding cannot be used for construction, charitable activities, political campaigns, religious programming, fundraising, or scientific research. Eligibility for this opportunity is broad and includes nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, individuals, alumni of U.S. government exchange programs, and public international organizations. Both U.S. and non-U.S. entities may apply, but for-profit organizations are not eligible. Applicants must demonstrate organizational capacity, relevant experience, and the ability to manage federal funds. Organizations are required to obtain a Unique Entity Identifier and maintain registration in SAM.gov, though individuals are exempt from this requirement. Only one application per organization is permitted. The application process requires submission of standard federal forms such as SF-424 and SF-424A, along with a detailed proposal narrative of up to four pages. Applicants must include a problem statement, project design, timeline, monitoring and evaluation plan, and detailed budget with justification. Supporting documents such as resumes, letters of support, and proof of nonprofit status are also required. Applications must be submitted via email or through grants.gov, and all materials must be in English and denominated in U.S. dollars. Applications will be evaluated based on program quality, organizational capacity, feasibility, budget justification, and monitoring and evaluation plans. Reviewers assess alignment with U.S. policy priorities, clarity of objectives, and the likelihood of successful implementation. Notification of award decisions is expected within approximately 120 days after the submission deadline. Selected applicants will enter into a formal grant agreement and must comply with reporting requirements, including quarterly progress and financial reports. The deadline for applications is July 31, 2026, at 11:59 PM local time in Rangoon. This is a firm deadline, and late submissions will not be considered. Applicants may direct questions to the program email inbox. While this competition is issued as a single cycle, continuation funding may be considered for successful projects subject to funding availability and performance. Overall, this grant provides an opportunity for organizations and individuals to contribute to U.S. public diplomacy efforts while building impactful programs in Burma.

Align proposals clearly with U.S. foreign policy priorities; include a strong American component; ensure measurable outcomes and detailed budget justification