FY 2026 Strengthening Talent, Research, Innovation and Vital Engagement (STRIVE) Program

The FY 2026 Strengthening Talent, Research, Innovation and Vital Engagement (STRIVE) Program is a federal funding opportunity administered by the U.S. Department of State through the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. This program operates under the Educational and Cultural Exchange framework and is funded through FY2026 appropriations. It is designed to enhance U.S. global leadership by strengthening higher education institutions’ capacity to prepare American students for careers that support national economic competitiveness and security interests. The STRIVE Program focuses on expanding international engagement opportunities for U.S. undergraduate and graduate students by supporting institutional partnerships and academic programming abroad. The program addresses a critical gap in global exposure among U.S. students by promoting study, internships, apprenticeships, and research opportunities in strategic international locations. These experiences are intended to equip students with the skills, global awareness, and professional networks necessary to contribute to industries that are vital to U.S. prosperity and national security. The selected award recipient will implement two primary program components. First, the organization will manage a national small grants competition that provides subawards to U.S. colleges and universities. These subawards will support the development or expansion of international academic programs aligned with domestic workforce needs in key sectors such as emerging technologies, energy, and critical minerals. The recipient will also oversee the monitoring, evaluation, and support of these subawardees to ensure successful program implementation and long-term institutional capacity building. Second, the recipient will lead a Higher Education Partnerships Initiative designed to foster collaboration between U.S. and international higher education institutions. This component includes organizing seminars, virtual or in-person engagements, and a major in-person forum that convenes approximately 40 higher education leaders. These activities aim to establish sustainable academic partnerships and facilitate student mobility across institutions, while aligning with U.S. foreign policy and economic priorities. The program is funded through a cooperative agreement, meaning the Department of State will have substantial involvement in program oversight and implementation. The total available funding is approximately $2,000,000, with one award anticipated. The period of performance is up to 48 months, allowing for long-term program development, implementation, and evaluation. While cost sharing is not required, applicants are encouraged to contribute additional resources to maximize program reach and effectiveness. Eligibility is limited to U.S.-based nonprofit organizations and accredited public or private educational institutions. Applicants must demonstrate at least four years of experience in managing international exchange programs to qualify for funding at this level. Additional requirements include maintaining active registration in federal systems such as SAM.gov and submitting a complete application package that includes program narratives, detailed budgets, and monitoring and evaluation plans aligned with the Department of State’s MODE framework. Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov by June 10, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. Proposals will be evaluated based on program design quality, institutional capacity, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to achieve measurable outcomes. The anticipated award date is September 15, 2026, with the possibility of renewal for up to two additional years based on performance and funding availability.