English Language Teaching Services Program

The English Language Teaching Services Program is administered by the U.S. Embassy Djibouti under the U.S. Department of State’s Public Diplomacy Section. This funding opportunity is designed to advance U.S. foreign policy priorities by strengthening English language capacity in Djibouti, a strategically important Francophone country surrounded by English-speaking regional partners. The Embassy has identified a growing need for English proficiency to support regional economic integration, workforce competitiveness, and international collaboration. Through this program, the Department of State seeks to enhance communication skills, expand professional opportunities, and foster stronger people-to-people ties between Djibouti and the United States. The primary purpose of this grant is to support organizations that can design and implement high-quality English language instruction programs targeting diverse participant groups. These include students, young professionals, entrepreneurs, educators, and civil servants. Programs are expected to improve practical English communication skills, particularly in professional, academic, and conversational contexts, while also integrating workforce readiness and career development elements. In addition, successful projects will promote understanding of American culture, education systems, and professional practices, thereby strengthening bilateral relationships and mutual understanding. Funding for this opportunity is provided through FY26 Smith-Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds and/or Educational and Cultural Exchange funds. The total funding available is up to 50000 dollars, with individual awards anticipated at approximately 50000 dollars. The program allows for a performance period of six to twelve months, with projects expected to be completed within twelve months or less. While continuation funding may be considered, it is contingent upon the availability of funds, satisfactory performance, and alignment with Department of State priorities. Cost sharing is encouraged but not required, and applicants may include matching contributions to strengthen their proposals. Eligible applicants include registered nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, governmental entities, and public international organizations based in either Djibouti or the United States. For-profit entities are not eligible. Applicants must have a Unique Entity Identifier and active registration in SAM.gov unless an exemption is granted. The program allows for sub-contracting arrangements; however, only one nonprofit or nongovernmental organization may serve as the primary recipient. Projects that involve political activities, construction, direct social services, religious activities, or commercial ventures are explicitly excluded from funding. The application process requires submission through Grants.gov and includes mandatory federal forms such as SF-424, SF-424A, and SF-424B, along with a detailed proposal narrative and budget justification. The proposal must clearly outline program objectives, methods, timelines, personnel, partnerships, and a monitoring and evaluation plan. Additional required materials include resumes of key personnel, letters of support, proof of nonprofit status, and registration documentation. The application deadline is August 9, 2026, at 11:59 p.m., and late submissions will not be considered. Applications will be evaluated based on several criteria, including program quality and feasibility, organizational capacity, project planning, budget justification, monitoring and evaluation, and sustainability. The review process includes technical eligibility screening followed by a panel review. Applicants are typically notified of results within 120 days after the deadline. Successful recipients will enter into a grant or cooperative agreement with the Department of State and must comply with reporting requirements, including quarterly progress and financial reports and final reports upon project completion. Program implementation is expected to begin around October 2026. The U.S. Embassy Djibouti will play an active role in oversight, branding, outreach, and evaluation, particularly if the award is structured as a cooperative agreement. Recipients are responsible for executing program activities, managing staff and participants, and ensuring compliance with all federal requirements. This program represents a strategic investment in human capital development and international partnership building through English language education.

Align proposal clearly with stated objectives ensure strong monitoring and evaluation plan demonstrate organizational capacity and provide detailed realistic budget justification