FY26 Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund

The Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund is administered by the U.S. Department of State through the U.S. Mission to Germany, specifically the Public Diplomacy Section at the U.S. Embassy in Berlin. The program is part of the Educational and Cultural Exchange Programs authorized under the Fulbright-Hays Act and is designed to leverage the experience and networks of alumni from U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs. This initiative aligns with broader U.S. foreign policy goals, particularly in strengthening transatlantic relations between the United States and Germany during the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, referred to as Freedom 250. The primary purpose of the fund is to support alumni-led projects that extend the impact of exchange programs by applying acquired knowledge and skills to real-world community challenges. The program emphasizes advancing U.S. policy priorities such as promoting democratic values, defending freedom of speech, and fostering economic and societal resilience. Projects must clearly integrate Freedom 250 themes and demonstrate measurable outcomes that benefit German audiences while incorporating strong U.S. elements such as American speakers, institutions, or perspectives. Funding is available for two primary types of initiatives. The first category supports Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund projects, which require teams of at least two alumni to collaborate on initiatives that expand alumni networks, strengthen ties with the U.S. government, or enhance leadership and community engagement. These projects may include workshops, innovation labs, mentorship programs, or partnerships with academic institutions. The second category supports Alumni Summits, which are larger-scale events designed to convene alumni across sectors to collaborate, exchange best practices, and address shared challenges. These summits must also include follow-on activities to ensure sustained engagement. Award amounts vary depending on the project type. Standard alumni-led projects can request between $5,000 and $35,000, while alumni summits may receive up to $40,000. The program anticipates multiple awards and typically supports projects with a performance period of up to 12 months. While cost sharing is encouraged to demonstrate commitment and sustainability, it is not a requirement for participation. Funds may be used for allowable programmatic expenses such as personnel, travel, supplies, and contractual services, but may not support construction, charitable aid, political activities, or direct social services. Eligibility is limited to individuals and organizations with direct ties to U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs. This includes alumni of programs such as Fulbright, International Visitor Leadership Program, Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange, and others, as well as alumni associations. Teams must include at least two alumni, and projects must be led by non-U.S. citizen alumni, although U.S. citizens may participate as team members. Organizations must meet registration requirements such as obtaining a Unique Entity Identifier and maintaining an active SAM.gov registration if applicable. The application process requires submission of standard federal forms such as SF-424, a detailed proposal narrative, a budget and budget justification, and supporting documents including resumes and letters of support. Proposals must clearly define objectives, methodologies, timelines, and evaluation strategies, including a Monitoring and Evaluation Performance Monitoring Plan. Applications are reviewed based on criteria such as program quality, organizational capacity, feasibility, budget justification, monitoring and evaluation, and sustainability. The application deadline is May 17, 2026, with project implementation expected to begin no earlier than September 2026. Applicants can submit via Grants.gov or directly via email, and final award decisions are typically communicated within 120 days after the deadline.

Ensure strong alignment with U.S. policy priorities; include measurable outcomes and sustainability plans; demonstrate clear alumni engagement and feasibility