National Disaster Coverage Training for Indonesian Journalists

The National Disaster Coverage Training for Indonesian Journalists funding opportunity is administered by the U.S. Department of State through the U.S. Embassy Jakarta, specifically under its Public Diplomacy Section. This initiative is part of broader U.S. foreign policy efforts to strengthen regional resilience, promote accurate information ecosystems, and support democratic institutions such as a free and professional press. The program is funded under Public Diplomacy funds and structured as a cooperative agreement, meaning the Embassy will maintain substantial involvement in program oversight and execution. The opportunity is designed as a competitive grant with a single anticipated award to support a comprehensive training program over a defined period. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to enhance the capacity of Indonesian journalists to effectively and safely report on natural disasters. Indonesia’s geographic position along the Pacific Ring of Fire exposes it to frequent and severe disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, and volcanic eruptions. The program seeks to address a critical skills gap among journalists working in high-risk regions by providing specialized training in crisis communication, safety protocols, fact-checking, and coordination with emergency responders. By improving the quality and reliability of disaster reporting, the program aims to support public safety and reduce the impact of misinformation during emergencies. Funding for this opportunity ranges from 15000 to 25000 dollars, with a total program funding amount of 25000 dollars and one award anticipated. The project performance period is expected to last up to 12 months, with an anticipated start date of November 1, 2026. Funds may be used for programmatic costs such as training development, workshops, field exercises, participant recruitment, and resource creation. However, there are clear restrictions on the use of funds, including prohibitions on construction, direct social services, political activities, religious programming, fundraising, and scientific research. Pre-award costs are generally not allowable unless specifically approved. Eligibility for this funding opportunity is limited to Indonesian-based non-profit organizations, non-governmental organizations, educational institutions, journalism associations, and civil society organizations with relevant experience. Applicants must demonstrate prior experience in journalism training, media development, or disaster preparedness initiatives. For-profit entities are explicitly excluded as primary applicants, although they may participate as subcontractors. Organizations must also maintain a valid Unique Entity Identifier and registration in SAM.gov. Only one application per organization is permitted, and failure to comply results in disqualification. The application process requires submission of several mandatory federal forms including SF-424, SF-424A, and SF-424B, along with a detailed proposal not exceeding ten pages. The proposal must include a summary, organizational background, problem statement, program design, timeline, staffing plan, partnerships, sustainability strategy, and monitoring and evaluation framework. Additionally, applicants must submit a detailed budget and a corresponding budget justification narrative. Supporting documentation such as resumes, letters of support, proof of nonprofit status, and registration documentation are also required. Applications must be submitted via email and comply with formatting and language requirements. Applications are evaluated based on several criteria including program quality and feasibility, organizational capacity, project planning, budget justification, monitoring and evaluation approach, and sustainability. Each criterion is weighted, with program design and organizational capacity receiving the highest emphasis. The review process includes an eligibility screening followed by a technical review panel assessment. Applicants are typically notified of results within 120 days after the submission deadline. The deadline for applications is August 28, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. WIB, and submissions must be made electronically. The program is not described as recurring, indicating a one-time funding cycle. Selected recipients will enter into a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Embassy Jakarta and must comply with reporting requirements, including quarterly progress and financial reports and a final report at project completion. For inquiries, applicants may contact the Public Affairs Section via the provided program email address.

Ensure strong alignment with stated objectives demonstrate organizational capacity include detailed budget justification and measurable outcomes with clear monitoring and evaluation plan