Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund 2026

The Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund is administered by the U.S. Department of State through the U.S. Mission in Saudi Arabia, specifically its Public Diplomacy Section. This program is part of a broader effort to strengthen diplomatic ties and extend the long-term value of U.S. government-funded exchange programs. By engaging alumni of these programs, the fund aims to translate past educational and cultural exchanges into actionable projects that reinforce bilateral cooperation between the United States and Saudi Arabia. The initiative reflects the Department of State’s strategic use of public diplomacy to promote mutual understanding, shared values, and collaborative innovation. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to support alumni-led initiatives that align with U.S. foreign policy priorities while fostering shared interests between the two nations. Projects must contribute to themes such as cultural exchange, educational advancement, economic cooperation, technological innovation, and community resilience. A central requirement for this cycle is that all projects must incorporate or celebrate the United States’ 250th anniversary, emphasizing themes like independence, innovation, and shared democratic values. The program prioritizes initiatives that demonstrate measurable impact and sustainability within Saudi Arabia. Funding is provided through Fulbright-Hays Public Diplomacy funds, with individual awards ranging from 5000 to 35000 dollars. Up to three awards are anticipated, though total program funding is not specified and remains subject to availability. Projects must be completed within a 12-month performance period and are expected to begin within 45 days of funding approval. Allowable costs include programmatic expenses such as local travel, venue rental, equipment, communications materials, and speaker honoraria, while unallowable costs include salaries, construction, international airfare to the United States, scholarships, and charitable services. Eligibility is restricted to alumni of U.S. government-funded exchange programs. Applications must be submitted by teams of at least two alumni, and at least one team leader must be a Saudi citizen or resident. While U.S. citizen alumni may participate as team members, they may not serve as primary applicants. Organizations such as nonprofits or academic institutions cannot apply directly but may act as implementation partners. Projects must primarily take place within Saudi Arabia and must align with specified thematic priorities, including AI and technology, creative industries, sustainable energy, and media literacy. The application process requires submission of standardized federal forms (SF-424 series), a detailed proposal using a required template, and a budget using a prescribed Excel format. Supporting materials such as resumes, partner letters, and permissions may also be required. Applications must be submitted via email to the designated grants inbox, and all materials must be in English and denominated in U.S. dollars. The submission deadline is May 3, 2026, at 23:59 AST. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with embassy priorities, clarity and feasibility of the project plan, level of alumni engagement, strength of partnerships, monitoring and evaluation plans, and budget justification. Successful proposals must demonstrate a strong likelihood of sustained impact and community engagement. A review committee assesses all eligible submissions, and unsuccessful applicants are notified by August 22, 2026. This funding opportunity follows an annual cycle and is expected to recur. The current application window is open, with projects anticipated to begin shortly after award notification. For inquiries, applicants may contact the program via the official email address provided in the notice.

Ensure strong alignment with embassy priorities; demonstrate measurable impact and sustainability; include clear monitoring and evaluation plan; build strong local partnerships