U.S. Embassy to the United Kingdom Public Diplomacy Section Annual Program Statement

The U.S. Department of State, through the U.S. Embassy in London’s Public Diplomacy Section, offers funding under its Annual Program Statement to support initiatives that strengthen the relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom. This funding opportunity is part of the Smith Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds and is designed to advance U.S. foreign policy priorities through public engagement, cultural exchange, and educational programming. The program reflects the broader mission of the Department of State to promote mutual understanding between nations and to support shared democratic values, economic collaboration, and global security. The purpose of this funding opportunity is to support projects that align with one of several strategic priority areas identified by the U.S. Embassy. These include strengthening economic resilience and prosperity between the U.S. and UK, increasing support for U.S. foreign policy and defense collaboration, and promoting American values such as freedom of expression and democratic principles. Programs may include educational workshops, public engagement activities, professional exchanges, and cultural programming. The intended audiences span a wide range of stakeholders including students, journalists, government officials, civil society leaders, and business professionals. Funding is available for projects lasting between one and twelve months, with awards ranging from twenty thousand to one hundred thousand dollars. The total program funding is approximately two hundred thirty thousand dollars, subject to availability. Funds may be used for programmatic expenses such as personnel, travel, supplies, and contracted services, but may not be used for construction, direct social services, partisan political activity, or religious programming. Cost sharing is encouraged but not required, allowing applicants flexibility in structuring their financial contributions. Eligibility for this opportunity is broad and includes nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, individuals, public international organizations, and governmental institutions. However, for-profit entities are not eligible to apply as primary recipients. Applicants must meet specific administrative requirements, including obtaining a Unique Entity Identifier and maintaining registration in SAM.gov, unless exempted. Only one proposal per organization is permitted, and all proposals must clearly define roles if partnerships or subawards are involved. The application process requires submission of standard federal forms such as the SF-424 series, a detailed narrative proposal, and a comprehensive budget with justification. The proposal must outline objectives, methodology, timeline, personnel, and evaluation strategies. Applicants must also include a monitoring and evaluation plan demonstrating how outcomes will be measured. Additional attachments such as resumes, letters of support, and proof of nonprofit status may be required. Applications must be submitted via email to the designated embassy grants address. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until August 10, 2026, with proposals reviewed starting August 1, 2026. Applicants can expect notification of funding decisions within approximately 120 days after the deadline. Projects are expected to begin on a rolling basis following approval and must be completed within the designated performance period. This opportunity is issued annually, making it a recurring funding mechanism for organizations seeking to engage in U.S.-UK public diplomacy efforts. Evaluation of applications is based on several criteria including program quality, organizational capacity, project planning, budget justification, monitoring and evaluation, and sustainability. Reviewers assess how well proposals align with U.S. foreign policy priorities and the likelihood of achieving meaningful impact. The program emphasizes innovation, feasibility, and measurable outcomes, ensuring that funded projects contribute effectively to strengthening bilateral relations and advancing shared strategic goals.

Ensure strong alignment with U.S. foreign policy priorities, provide clear measurable outcomes, and include a detailed monitoring and evaluation plan