FY 2026 Future Leaders Exchange Global (FLEX Global)

The FY Future Leaders Exchange Global program is a federal funding opportunity administered by the U.S. Department of State through the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. This initiative builds on decades of exchange programming, including the FLEX and YES programs, to promote mutual understanding and strengthen international relationships. The program is designed to support large-scale cooperative agreements that enable high school student exchanges between the United States and countries around the world. Its overarching mission is to cultivate a global network of young leaders who understand American values, culture, and systems, while also fostering leadership, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement among participants. The program supports two primary components: an Administrative Component and a Placement Component. The Administrative Component oversees global operations, including participant recruitment, selection, travel logistics, and alumni engagement. The Placement Component focuses on placing international students with U.S. host families and schools, as well as providing ongoing support and programming during their stay. Together, these components facilitate exchanges for up to 1,200 international students studying in the U.S. and up to 150 American students studying abroad annually. All participants engage in academic study, cultural immersion, and leadership development activities. Funding for this opportunity is substantial, with total available funding of approximately $35,000,000. Individual awards vary significantly depending on the component, with Administrative Component funding around $22,000,000 and Placement Component awards ranging from $400,000 to $10,000,000. The period of performance spans 21 to 36 months, with potential renewal for up to two additional fiscal years based on performance and funding availability. Allowable costs include participant stipends, host family support, program activities, staff salaries, travel, and administrative expenses, among others. While cost sharing is not required, applicants are encouraged to contribute additional resources. Eligibility is limited to U.S.-based nonprofit organizations and educational institutions, both public and private. Applicants must demonstrate at least four years of experience managing international exchange programs due to the scale of funding involved. Organizations must also maintain active registration in SAM.gov and comply with all federal requirements, including submission of standard application forms and detailed budgets. Only one proposal per organization per component is allowed, and applicants may apply for one or both components through separate submissions. The application process requires submission through Grants.gov and includes several mandatory components such as an executive summary, proposal narrative, detailed budget, and supporting documentation. Applications are due by June 29, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. The review process is competitive and evaluates proposals based on program quality, organizational capacity, cost-effectiveness, and monitoring and evaluation plans. Final award decisions are made by the Assistant Secretary of State following panel review and compliance checks. The program follows a structured timeline beginning with outreach and recruitment in late 2026, participant selection in early 2027, and program implementation during the 2027–2028 academic year. Activities include orientations, travel, host family placement, and ongoing monitoring. Participants return home in mid-2028, followed by alumni programming through 2029. The cooperative agreements are expected to conclude by August 31, 2029. For questions, applicants may contact program officers via email or phone as listed in the solicitation.

Focus on strong monitoring and evaluation plan; demonstrate prior exchange program success; ensure cost efficiency and detailed workplan