U.S.-ROK Strategic Partnership Initiatives

The U.S.-ROK Strategic Partnership Initiatives grant is offered by the U.S. Department of State through the U.S. Embassy in Seoul as part of its Public Diplomacy programming. This funding opportunity is designed to support initiatives that strengthen the bilateral relationship between the United States and the Republic of Korea by advancing shared strategic priorities. The program is funded through FY26 Smith Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds and reflects broader U.S. foreign policy frameworks such as the U.S.-ROK Joint Fact Sheet, National Security Strategy, and other sector-specific policy plans. The Embassy seeks to fund a limited number of high-impact, innovative projects that engage Korean audiences and reinforce cooperation between the two nations. The purpose of this grant is to generate measurable outcomes that enhance the U.S.-ROK alliance through practical and locally implemented programming. Applicants are encouraged to design projects that address key thematic areas such as economic and technology cooperation, cybersecurity, innovation, supply chain resilience, maritime and shipbuilding collaboration, and countering misinformation or anti-American propaganda. Additional priority areas include workforce development, entrepreneurship, and transnational crime prevention. For the 2026 calendar year, proposals connected to the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence may also be considered, provided that all related activities conclude by December 31, 2026. Funding under this opportunity ranges from 25000 to 100000 dollars per award, with total program funding estimated at 250000 dollars, subject to availability. The Embassy anticipates making between three and five awards. Projects must have a performance period between three and twelve months and are expected to begin in October 2026. Funding may be awarded as a grant, fixed amount award, or cooperative agreement, with the latter involving substantial collaboration between the Embassy and the recipient in areas such as program design, stakeholder engagement, and evaluation. Eligible applicants include not-for-profit organizations, think tanks, civil society organizations, public and private educational institutions, and governmental or public international organizations. While priority is given to organizations based in the Republic of Korea, entities headquartered outside Korea may apply if they demonstrate strong local implementation capacity through partnerships, staffing, or prior experience. All organizations must obtain a Unique Entity Identifier and maintain active registration in SAM.gov, although individuals are not required to complete these registrations. The application process requires submission of standard federal forms including SF-424 and related budget and assurance documents, along with a proposal narrative of up to ten pages. The proposal must include a summary, organizational background, problem statement, project goals, detailed activities, implementation approach, timeline, key personnel, partner roles, and a monitoring and evaluation plan. Additional required materials include a budget justification narrative, resumes of key personnel, and any relevant letters of support. All application materials must be submitted in English and formatted according to specified guidelines. Applications must be submitted via email to SeoulPDGrants@state.gov by June 30, 2026 at 11:59 PM GMT+9. Proposals will be evaluated based on strategic relevance, quality and feasibility of design, organizational capacity, monitoring and evaluation rigor, budget justification, and sustainability of impact. A review committee will assess all eligible applications, and unsuccessful applicants will be notified by the end of August 2026. Successful applicants will receive formal award documentation and may begin incurring costs only after the official start date. Recipients are subject to standard federal grant compliance requirements, including financial and program reporting, branding guidelines, and adherence to applicable federal regulations. The program emphasizes measurable outcomes, strong partnerships, and long-term impact beyond the grant period. While continuation funding may be considered, it is contingent on performance and availability of funds. This opportunity represents a strategic investment in strengthening bilateral engagement through targeted, results-driven public diplomacy initiatives.

Align proposal closely with U.S.-ROK strategic priorities; demonstrate measurable outcomes; ensure strong local partnerships; provide clear implementation and evaluation plans