Yemen Public Diplomacy Programs: English Language Education and Media Development

The U.S. Department of State, through the Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs and the U.S. Mission to Yemen’s Public Diplomacy Section, is offering funding for programs focused on English language education and media development. This funding opportunity is part of the Department’s broader public diplomacy efforts to strengthen ties between the United States and Yemen by promoting shared values, increasing mutual understanding, and building professional and educational linkages. The initiative aligns with U.S. foreign policy priorities by fostering stronger educational connections, supporting independent media, and countering adversarial influence in Yemen’s information environment. The program is designed to support projects that fall within one of three priority areas: English language education and leadership development, countering adversarial influence through fact-based reporting, or building digital and professional skills for media practitioners. Each applicant must select only one priority area and design a program that includes engagement with American experts, institutions, or organizations. The overarching goal is to create sustainable partnerships between Yemeni and U.S. institutions while delivering measurable outcomes such as improved English proficiency, enhanced journalistic standards, and expanded professional networks. Funding for this opportunity totals approximately $600,000, with individual awards ranging from $50,000 to $150,000. The program anticipates making three to five awards, depending on funding availability. Projects are expected to have a performance period of 12 to 18 months, with a planned start date of October 1, 2026. Allowable activities include structured training programs, mentorship initiatives, institutional partnerships, and hybrid learning models that address infrastructure challenges. However, funding cannot be used for construction, direct social services, political activities, or religious programming. Eligibility is limited to non-profit Yemeni or U.S. organizations, including civil society organizations, think tanks, and both public and private universities. For-profit entities, individuals, and government bodies are not eligible to apply as primary recipients, although sub-contracting is permitted under clearly defined roles. Applicants must also maintain a valid registration in SAM.gov and possess a Unique Entity Identifier. While cost sharing is encouraged, it is not required for participation in this program. The application process requires submission of standard federal forms, including SF-424, SF-424A, and SF-424B where applicable, along with a detailed proposal not exceeding ten pages. The proposal must include a program summary, organizational background, problem statement, implementation plan, timeline, personnel details, partnerships, sustainability plan, and a monitoring and evaluation framework. Applicants must also submit a detailed budget and justification narrative, resumes for key personnel, letters of support from partners, and proof of non-profit status. Applications must be submitted via email by June 10, 2026 at 11:59 PM Yemen time. Proposals will be evaluated based on program quality and feasibility, organizational capacity, project planning, budget justification, monitoring and evaluation approach, and sustainability. Applicants can expect notification of results within approximately 120 days after the deadline. For questions regarding the application process, applicants may contact the Public Diplomacy Section at YemenPA@state.gov.

Align proposal closely with stated priority areas; demonstrate measurable outcomes and strong monitoring and evaluation; ensure partnerships with American institutions are clearly defined; provide detailed and realistic budget justification