U.S. Embassy Jerusalem Public Diplomacy Annual Program Statement (Palestinian audiences)

The U.S. Embassy Jerusalem Public Diplomacy Annual Program Statement is a federal funding opportunity administered by the U.S. Department of State through its Public Diplomacy Section. The program is designed to advance U.S. economic, commercial, and security interests among Palestinian audiences by supporting cooperative agreements with eligible organizations. This initiative reflects broader U.S. foreign policy goals and emphasizes strengthening ties between Palestinian communities and the United States through cultural, educational, and economic engagement. Funding is provided under the Smith Mundt Public Diplomacy authority and supports projects that incorporate a clear American component, such as partnerships with U.S. institutions, experts, or organizations. The purpose of this funding opportunity is to support projects that align with one of five strategic goals: advancing U.S. economic interests and technological leadership, promoting U.S.-Israeli-Palestinian health technology cooperation, increasing Christian tourism to Palestinian heritage sites, promoting American excellence in educational technology, and countering malign influence while promoting free speech. Each project must demonstrate measurable outcomes and clearly articulate how it contributes to U.S. leadership and engagement. Programs are expected to include practical activities such as training sessions, business matchmaking, conferences, or technology demonstrations that create sustainable partnerships and knowledge transfer. Funding is available in award amounts ranging from 50000 to 250000 dollars, with total program funding of approximately 1000000 dollars. Projects must be completed within a performance period of up to 18 months. Funding is issued through cooperative agreements, meaning the U.S. Embassy will maintain substantial involvement in project oversight, including approval of key personnel, monitoring progress, and reviewing deliverables. Allowable costs include programmatic expenses such as personnel, travel, and materials, while unallowable costs include construction, direct social services, fundraising, lobbying, and activities related to partisan politics or religious promotion. Cost sharing is encouraged but not required. Eligibility is limited to U.S., Israeli, or Palestinian not-for-profit organizations, including non-governmental organizations, think tanks, and educational institutions. For-profit entities are not eligible as primary applicants, though they may participate as sub-contractors. Applicants must have a valid Unique Entity Identifier and active registration in SAM.gov. Only one non-profit entity may serve as the primary recipient, and partnerships must clearly define roles and responsibilities. Projects must target Palestinian audiences and include a meaningful American component that strengthens bilateral understanding and cooperation. The application process requires submission of several mandatory forms, including SF-424, SF-424A, and SF-424B, along with a detailed proposal of up to 10 pages. The proposal must include a summary, organizational background, problem statement, program design, timeline, personnel details, partner descriptions, sustainability plan, and a monitoring and evaluation framework. Applicants must also submit a detailed budget and budget justification narrative, along with supporting documents such as resumes, letters of support, and proof of non-profit status. Applications must be submitted via email to the designated embassy address. Applications are due by August 6, 2026 at 2359 Israel Daylight Time. Questions must be submitted by July 26, 2026, and responses will be published in a public document. Awards are expected to begin on a rolling basis following approval, with project start dates no later than September 29, 2026. Applicants are typically notified within approximately 120 days after the deadline. Evaluation criteria include program quality, organizational capacity, project planning, budget justification, monitoring and evaluation, and sustainability. The review process also includes risk assessment and potential additional vetting for selected applicants. Overall, this program represents a strategic investment in public diplomacy efforts that foster economic collaboration, technological exchange, and cultural understanding. By supporting partnerships between Palestinian stakeholders and U.S. entities, the program aims to generate long-term engagement and measurable impact aligned with U.S. foreign policy priorities.