U.S. Embassy Bishkek Public Diplomacy Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)

The U.S. Department of State, through the U.S. Embassy in Bishkek’s Public Diplomacy Section, is offering funding under the Public Diplomacy Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics program. This opportunity is designed to advance American leadership in STEM by supporting initiatives in the Kyrgyz Republic that promote education, innovation, and partnerships aligned with U.S. technological expertise. The program is funded through Smith Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds and reflects broader U.S. foreign policy goals to strengthen international collaboration, expand economic opportunities, and reinforce the United States as a preferred partner in global STEM advancement. The purpose of this funding opportunity is to expand access to high-quality STEM education, particularly in underserved and rural areas of the Kyrgyz Republic. The program emphasizes equipping educators with modern teaching methodologies based on U.S. models, improving student engagement in STEM disciplines, and fostering connections between Kyrgyzstani and U.S. institutions. Projects may include teacher training programs, student competitions, curriculum modernization efforts, and entrepreneurship support initiatives for STEM innovators. All proposals must demonstrate a clear American component, such as partnerships with U.S. organizations, use of U.S.-developed curricula, or involvement of American experts. Funding will support projects with a performance period of six to twelve months, with anticipated award amounts ranging from 10000 to 50000 dollars. The program may issue up to three awards, depending on funding availability. While cost sharing is encouraged, it is not required. Allowable costs include personnel, travel, equipment, supplies, contractual services, and other direct program expenses, provided they align with federal cost principles. However, funding cannot be used for construction, direct social services, political activities, religious programming, or commercial ventures. Eligible applicants include Kyrgyz Republic-registered nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and individuals, as well as U.S.-based nonprofits and educational institutions partnering with Kyrgyz entities. For-profit organizations are not eligible to apply as primary recipients. Applicants must meet federal registration requirements, including obtaining a Unique Entity Identifier and maintaining an active registration in SAM.gov, unless exempted. Only one application per organization is permitted. The application process requires submission of standard federal forms, including SF-424 and associated budget forms, along with a detailed proposal not exceeding six pages. Applicants must include a comprehensive project narrative, organizational background, monitoring and evaluation plan, budget justification, and supporting documentation such as resumes and letters of support. Proposals must clearly define objectives, activities, timelines, and expected outcomes, and demonstrate alignment with program goals. Applications may be submitted via Grants.gov or email to the Embassy’s designated address. Applications are due by April 30, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Bishkek time, with a question submission deadline of April 20, 2026. The review process evaluates proposals based on criteria including program quality, organizational capacity, project planning, budget justification, monitoring and evaluation, sustainability, and demonstration of American leadership. Applicants can expect notification of results within approximately 120 days following the submission deadline. This funding opportunity is not explicitly stated as recurring, and future funding cycles are subject to availability of funds and program priorities. Projects are expected to begin between September and October 2026. The Embassy maintains discretion in funding decisions and may adjust award amounts or the number of awards based on available resources and strategic considerations.

Ensure strong American partnership component; align clearly with stated objectives; provide detailed M&E plan; demonstrate organizational capacity and realistic budget