GameON U.S.-Albania E-Sports and Innovation

The GameON: U.S.-Albania E-Sports and Innovation funding opportunity is offered by the U.S. Department of State through the U.S. Embassy in Tirana. This program is designed to promote U.S. leadership in technology, innovation, and digital entrepreneurship by engaging Albanian youth in structured training programs focused on gaming, e-sports, and related digital skills. The initiative reflects broader public diplomacy goals of strengthening international partnerships and showcasing American expertise in emerging technology sectors. The purpose of this grant is to support a single project that delivers hands-on learning experiences in coding, game design, and digital entrepreneurship. The program will be implemented at American Corners located in Tirana, Vlora, and Kukes, targeting youth aged 15 to 30, including students, young professionals, and aspiring entrepreneurs. The initiative aims to build technical competencies while reinforcing positive perceptions of U.S. innovation, standards, and economic leadership in a rapidly expanding global gaming industry. Funding for this opportunity is limited, with a total available amount of 8000 dollars and anticipated awards ranging between 3000 and 8000 dollars for one recipient. The period of performance is expected to last between 6 and 12 months, with project activities to be completed within one year. Allowable activities include training programs, workshops, competitions, and collaborative projects that integrate U.S. tools, platforms, and methodologies. Funding restrictions prohibit activities such as construction, direct social services, political advocacy, fundraising campaigns, and commercial ventures. Eligibility for this opportunity includes not-for-profit organizations in both the United States and Albania, as well as individuals from these countries. For-profit entities are explicitly excluded. Applicants must meet administrative requirements such as obtaining a Unique Entity Identifier and maintaining active registration in SAM.gov, although individuals are exempt from these requirements. Cost sharing is encouraged but not mandatory, allowing applicants flexibility in structuring their budgets. The application process requires submission of standard federal forms, including SF-424, SF-424A, and SF-424B where applicable, along with a detailed narrative proposal of up to six pages. Applicants must also provide a budget, budget justification narrative, resumes of key personnel, and supporting documentation such as proof of non-profit status. Proposals must clearly outline project objectives, methods, timelines, evaluation plans, and partnerships, ensuring alignment with program goals and U.S. policy priorities. Applications must be submitted via email by August 20, 2026 at 11:59 pm CET. Questions regarding the application must be submitted by August 17, 2026, with responses provided through a public Q and A document. The review process evaluates proposals based on criteria including program quality, organizational capacity, planning, budget justification, monitoring and evaluation, and sustainability. Applicants can expect notification within approximately 120 days after the deadline. The anticipated project start date is October 2026. The selected recipient will work closely with the U.S. Embassy, which will provide guidance on curriculum development, audience targeting, and program promotion. Ongoing reporting and compliance requirements will be enforced throughout the grant period, including financial and programmatic reporting. This opportunity is a one-time competition and does not indicate a recurring funding cycle.

Ensure strong alignment with U.S. technology leadership themes and clearly defined measurable objectives with detailed implementation plan and budget justification