Strengthening Uzbekistans Anti-Corruption Framework to Improve the Investment Climate

The U.S. Department of State, through its Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), is offering a funding opportunity titled Strengthening Uzbekistan’s Anti-Corruption Framework to Improve the Investment Climate. This program is part of the broader Uzbekistan Rule of Law initiative and reflects INL’s mission to counter crime, instability, and corruption abroad while promoting transparent governance and economic stability. The funding opportunity is designed to support reforms that reduce corruption risks and create a more predictable and competitive business environment, ultimately benefiting both Uzbekistan and international investors, including U.S. companies. The primary purpose of this grant is to strengthen Uzbekistan’s institutional capacity to prevent, detect, and address corruption. The program focuses on improving coordination among key institutions such as the Anti-Corruption Agency, law enforcement bodies, and prosecutors. It also aims to enhance transparency in public procurement, strengthen integrity systems within state-owned enterprises, and improve enforcement mechanisms. These efforts are intended to reduce barriers to fair competition and foster a business climate that supports sustainable economic growth and increased investor confidence. Funding under this opportunity totals 750000 dollars, with a single anticipated award ranging from 500000 to 750000 dollars. The project period is expected to last between 12 and 18 months, beginning around September 2026. Applicants are expected to propose comprehensive technical assistance programs, including training workshops, advisory services, institutional capacity building, and development of tools or systems that support anti-corruption reforms. Allowable costs include personnel, travel, training expenses, technical expertise, monitoring and evaluation, and administrative costs. Cost sharing is encouraged but not required, and any proposed contributions must be documented and tracked. Eligibility for this opportunity is broad and includes U.S. and foreign nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and for-profit entities capable of implementing governance, rule of law, or anti-corruption programs. Applicants must demonstrate strong technical expertise, experience in similar programming, and the ability to collaborate with government institutions and private sector stakeholders. Public international organizations are explicitly excluded. Applicants must also maintain valid registration in SAM.gov and possess a Unique Entity Identifier. The application process requires submission through Grants.gov and includes several mandatory components such as the SF-424 forms, a detailed proposal narrative, performance monitoring plan, project risk analysis, organizational information, and a comprehensive budget with narrative justification. The proposal narrative must outline the project context, theory of change, implementation plan, and sustainability strategy. Applications are evaluated based on technical merit, including project design, monitoring and evaluation plans, organizational capacity, and cost effectiveness, with a total possible score of 100 points. Key deadlines include a question submission deadline of July 2, 2026, and a final application deadline of August 3, 2026. Applicants are encouraged to review the NOFO carefully and submit any clarifying questions before the deadline. INL will respond publicly to questions and notify applicants of award decisions by approximately October 2026. Successful applicants will be required to submit quarterly performance and financial reports and comply with all federal regulations and reporting requirements. Overall, this funding opportunity represents a strategic investment in strengthening governance and reducing corruption in Uzbekistan. By supporting institutional reforms and improving transparency, the program seeks to create a more level playing field for businesses and enhance economic opportunities. The initiative aligns with broader U.S. foreign policy objectives and emphasizes measurable outcomes, sustainability, and long-term institutional impact.

Focus on strong theory of change, evidence-based design, and clear implementation plan aligned with objectives; ensure budget justification and monitoring indicators are detailed