Syria Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund FY 2026

The Syria Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund is administered by the U.S. Department of State through the Syria Regional Platform in cooperation with the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. This program is part of the broader Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund initiative, which seeks to leverage the expertise and networks of U.S. government exchange program alumni worldwide. The fund is designed to extend the impact of prior U.S. exchange investments by enabling alumni to design and implement projects that align with U.S. foreign policy objectives while also addressing local community needs. The opportunity reflects a public diplomacy approach that emphasizes collaboration, mutual understanding, and shared interests between the United States and international communities. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to support alumni-led initiatives that promote U.S. policy goals, including strengthening economic opportunities, advancing technological leadership, supporting peace initiatives, and defending freedom of speech. A distinctive requirement for this funding cycle is the integration of programming that celebrates the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, referred to as Freedom 250. Projects must align with at least one stated U.S. administration priority and demonstrate how activities contribute to these broader strategic goals. The program emphasizes innovation, cross-sector collaboration, and measurable community impact. Funding for selected projects ranges from approximately 5,000 to 35,000 dollars, with an anticipated total of two awards issued. Projects must be completed within a performance period of up to 12 months, with an expected start date of October 1, 2026. While cost sharing is encouraged, it is not required, allowing applicants flexibility in structuring their budgets. However, there are clear restrictions on allowable expenses, including prohibitions on funding salaries, construction, direct social services, scholarships, and activities conducted within the United States. The program also excludes political, religious, commercial, and research-focused initiatives, ensuring that funded projects remain aligned with public diplomacy objectives. Eligibility is limited to teams of at least two alumni of U.S. government-funded or sponsored exchange programs. Importantly, teams must include at least two non-U.S. citizen alumni, and U.S. citizens may only participate as team members rather than lead applicants. Organizations such as nonprofits or academic institutions cannot apply directly but may serve as implementing partners. Projects must take place outside the United States and may involve alumni from multiple countries and exchange programs. Applicants are limited to submitting one proposal, and failure to comply results in disqualification. The application process requires submission of standardized federal forms, including SF-424 and associated budget and assurance documents, along with a detailed proposal form specific to the program. Applicants must provide comprehensive information on project design, team composition, objectives, implementation methods, monitoring and evaluation plans, and communication strategies. A detailed budget and justification are also required, along with potential supporting documents such as resumes, letters of support, and proof of organizational status if applicable. Applications must be submitted via email to the designated program address. The deadline for submission is May 20, 2026, at 17:00 local time in Syria, and applications are reviewed through a competitive process based on criteria such as relevance to program goals, feasibility, alumni involvement, community support, monitoring and evaluation plans, and budget justification. Applicants can expect notification of results within approximately 120 days following the deadline. Successful applicants will enter into a formal grant agreement and must comply with reporting requirements, including quarterly progress and financial reports. Overall, the program represents a structured opportunity for alumni to contribute to policy-driven initiatives while strengthening ties between local communities and the United States.

Ensure strong alignment with U.S. policy priorities and Freedom 250 theme; clearly define measurable outcomes and community impact; demonstrate active alumni leadership and partner engagement