EXBS Legal & Regulatory Support

The EXBS Legal & Regulatory Support funding opportunity is issued by the U.S. Department of State through the Bureau of Arms Control and Nonproliferation. This program is part of the Export Controls and Border Security (EXBS) initiative, which focuses on strengthening global systems that prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and sensitive dual-use technologies. The bureau plays a central role in advancing U.S. national security and foreign policy objectives by assisting partner countries in developing robust legal, regulatory, and enforcement frameworks to manage strategic trade and technology risks. This funding opportunity specifically targets evolving nonproliferation threats across critical regions in Asia and Europe. The program is designed to address vulnerabilities in export control systems, foreign direct investment screening, and supply chain oversight mechanisms. Countries highlighted in the program scope include the Philippines, Cambodia, Malaysia, Taiwan, Türkiye, and Ukraine. Each of these regions faces unique risks, such as weak regulatory enforcement, gaps in compliance systems, or exposure to sophisticated procurement networks seeking to acquire sensitive technologies. The program’s primary objective is to strengthen legal and regulatory frameworks, enhance institutional and private-sector compliance, and improve enforcement capabilities through data-driven approaches. Activities supported under this award may include legal reform initiatives, regulatory development, compliance training, industry engagement, and capacity-building efforts for government agencies. The funding is intended to reduce the risk of diversion or unauthorized transfer of dual-use goods, advanced technologies, and critical materials to malign actors or proliferators. The funding instrument for this opportunity is a cooperative agreement, indicating that the Department of State will have substantial involvement in program implementation. The total estimated funding for the program is 2,441,589 dollars, with a single award expected. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement, making the opportunity accessible to a broader range of applicants. However, for-profit organizations are subject to restrictions, including prohibitions on profit generation under assistance awards. Eligibility for this opportunity is broad and includes U.S. and foreign organizations. Eligible entities include nonprofit organizations such as think tanks and civil society organizations, public and private educational institutions, and for-profit organizations where permitted by appropriations. Applications from for-profit entities may undergo additional review, and all applicants must align with the program’s nonproliferation objectives and compliance standards. Applications must be submitted by July 20, 2026. The opportunity was posted on May 18, 2026, and remains open for submissions until the closing date. The application process is conducted through official federal grant systems, and applicants are expected to follow all submission requirements outlined in the full announcement. For assistance or technical issues accessing the application materials, applicants may contact the program via the provided email address. The evaluation process is expected to prioritize proposals that demonstrate strong technical expertise in export controls, legal and regulatory reform, and international security cooperation. Competitive applications will likely include detailed implementation plans, measurable outcomes, and evidence of organizational capacity to operate in complex international environments. While the timeline for award decisions is not specified, applicants should anticipate a review period following the submission deadline before notifications are issued.