Annual Program Statement 2025

The Annual Program Statement issued by the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria under the U.S. Department of State is a federal funding opportunity designed to support public diplomacy initiatives in South Africa. This program is funded through FY public diplomacy appropriations and is administered by the Public Diplomacy Section of the U.S. Mission to South Africa. The overarching purpose of the program is to strengthen mutual understanding, partnerships, and knowledge exchange between the United States and South Africa, particularly through projects that highlight American perspectives, expertise, and collaboration. The funding opportunity reflects U.S. foreign policy priorities and emphasizes relationship-building, institutional linkages, and community engagement across multiple sectors. The program supports a wide range of activities aligned with strategic priorities identified by the U.S. Mission. These include advancing STEM education, strengthening higher education partnerships, enhancing media literacy and professional journalism, supporting entrepreneurship and economic opportunity, reinforcing alumni networks of U.S. exchange programs, and promoting community security. Projects must incorporate a meaningful American component, such as collaboration with U.S. experts or institutions, and must primarily take place in South Africa. The program also includes region-specific priorities, encouraging tailored proposals that address local economic, educational, and social challenges across different provinces. Funding is limited, with total program funding of $200,000 and individual awards capped below $25,000. Up to ten awards are anticipated, depending on proposal scope and funding availability. Projects are expected to be completed within a performance period of 12 to 24 months, with potential continuation funding subject to performance and availability of funds. Allowable costs include programmatic expenses such as personnel, travel, supplies, and contractual services, while restrictions prohibit funding for construction, political activities, charitable donations, scholarships, or projects lacking a clear programmatic purpose. Cost sharing is permitted but not required, although cost effectiveness is considered during evaluation. Eligibility is restricted exclusively to non-profit organizations, including civil society organizations, non-governmental organizations, educational institutions, and think tanks. For-profit entities are explicitly excluded. Applicants must demonstrate organizational capacity to implement projects and may be required to provide proof of non-profit status. While initial submission does not require SAM.gov registration, applicants must obtain a Unique Entity Identifier and complete SAM.gov registration if selected as finalists. The program prioritizes South African organizations with demonstrated experience and encourages proposals targeting underserved communities. The application process follows a two-phase structure. In the first phase, applicants submit a concept paper of no more than two pages outlining the project idea, objectives, target audience, and estimated budget. Selected applicants are then invited to submit a full proposal with additional documentation and detailed plans. Concept papers are submitted via an online form along with a required cover sheet. Applications must be written in English and budgets must be presented in U.S. dollars. The submission process is competitive and subject to merit review by a panel that evaluates alignment with strategic priorities, innovation, feasibility, and organizational capability. The timeline includes two primary submission deadlines for concept papers: May 9 and July 11, with applications reviewed on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted. Selected applicants are typically notified within one month of each deadline, while final funding decisions are expected by mid-October. If applicants do not receive communication within three months, they should assume their proposal was not selected. The anticipated project start date is on or before September 30, with awards administered through grants, cooperative agreements, or fixed amount awards depending on the level of federal involvement. Evaluation criteria emphasize a strong American component, alignment with mission priorities, creativity, realistic planning, and demonstrated capacity to achieve outcomes. Applicants are encouraged to design measurable outcomes and clearly define target audiences. The program includes compliance requirements related to federal regulations, anti-discrimination policies, and reporting obligations. For additional inquiries, applicants may contact the program via the official email address provided by the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria.