Call for Proposals to Make America and the Region Safer, Stronger, and More Prosperous

The U.S. Department of State, through the Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) at the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala City, is offering funding through its Public Diplomacy Grants Program under the opportunity titled “Call for Proposals to Make America and the Region Safer, Stronger, and More Prosperous.” This funding opportunity aligns with broader U.S. foreign policy priorities and commemorates the 250th anniversary of American independence through the Freedom 250 initiative. The program is designed to strengthen bilateral relations and promote U.S. leadership, values, and partnerships across Guatemala and the region. The purpose of this grant program is to support projects that advance strategic objectives tied to security, economic prosperity, and regional stability. Applicants must incorporate a Freedom 250 component, which emphasizes cultural or educational programming, or collaboration with American experts and institutions, to promote understanding of U.S. policy and showcase American excellence. All activities must be coordinated with the U.S. Embassy’s Public Diplomacy Section and should reinforce the United States as a trusted and dynamic partner. Funding is available for projects that align with at least one of four priority goals: countering malign influence from the Chinese Communist Party, combating transnational criminal organizations, reducing illegal immigration by expanding economic opportunity, and increasing U.S. business presence in Guatemala. Projects may target audiences such as journalists, students, business leaders, public officials, and civil society organizations, and are expected to produce measurable outcomes such as improved awareness, strengthened institutional capacity, and enhanced economic engagement. Award amounts range from $10,000 to $100,000, with a total estimated program funding of $200,000 and approximately 10 awards expected. Projects must be completed within a performance period of up to 12 months. Funding may be issued as grants, fixed amount awards, or cooperative agreements, depending on the level of involvement by the U.S. Embassy. Cost sharing is not required. However, funds cannot be used for prohibited activities such as construction, direct social services, political activities, or fundraising campaigns. Eligible applicants include registered nonprofit organizations, think tanks, civil society organizations, individuals, and non-profit or governmental educational institutions. Organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and active registration in SAM.gov unless exempted. Only one proposal per organization is allowed. Applications must include required federal forms such as SF-424, a detailed proposal narrative (maximum 10 pages), a budget and justification, and supporting documentation such as resumes and letters of support. Applications are accepted via email submission and must be received by July 15, 2026. Proposals submitted between June 1 and July 15 will be reviewed by a grants committee, with notifications typically provided within 120 days after the deadline. Evaluation criteria include program quality, organizational capacity, project planning, budget justification, monitoring and evaluation, and sustainability. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate strong alignment with program priorities and provide clear, measurable outcomes. For questions or submission support, applicants may contact the Public Diplomacy Section via the official grants email. This opportunity is part of an annual program statement, suggesting potential recurrence in future cycles, subject to funding availability and evolving policy priorities.

Align proposal clearly with one priority goal include measurable outcomes and strong monitoring plan ensure detailed and realistic budget