Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund 2026

The Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund is administered by the U.S. Department of State through the U.S. Embassy in Bangui, specifically its Public Diplomacy Section. This funding opportunity is designed to support initiatives that strengthen international relationships and advance U.S. foreign policy objectives through alumni of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs. The program is part of broader public diplomacy efforts and is aligned with the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States, also known as Freedom 250. The fund prioritizes projects that reflect American values such as democratic governance, civic participation, and innovation, while fostering long-term partnerships with the Central African Republic. The primary purpose of this grant is to support locally driven projects that increase understanding of U.S. history, civic traditions, and democratic institutions among Central African audiences. The program emphasizes people-to-people engagement and encourages initiatives that connect U.S. principles with local governance, entrepreneurship, and community development. Target audiences include students, young professionals, entrepreneurs, and English language learners who can act as multipliers to extend the impact of the program. Activities may include public discussions, exhibitions, educational programming, and media engagement that integrate Freedom 250 themes. Funding for this opportunity is provided under the FY26 Fulbright Hays allocation, with total available funding of approximately $70,000, pending availability. Individual awards range from $5,000 to $35,000, and up to two awards are anticipated. The performance period for funded projects is between 6 and 12 months, with an expected project start date of August 15, 2026. Funds must be used for allowable costs such as personnel, travel, supplies, and program-related expenses, while explicitly excluding construction, direct social services, partisan political activities, and fundraising campaigns. Cost sharing is encouraged but not required. Eligibility is limited to individuals and organizations that are alumni of U.S. government-funded exchange programs. Eligible applicants include registered nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and individuals, provided the application is submitted by an exchange alumni or alumni association. Applicants may partner with other organizations for implementation, but the primary applicant must meet the alumni requirement. All organizational applicants must have a Unique Entity Identifier and maintain active registration in SAM.gov unless an exemption is granted. The application process requires submission of several mandatory federal forms, including SF-424 or SF-424-I, SF-424A, and SF-424B where applicable. Applicants must also submit a detailed proposal of up to five pages, which includes a project summary, organizational background, problem statement, program design, timeline, personnel, partnerships, sustainability plan, and monitoring and evaluation framework. A detailed budget and budget justification narrative are also required, along with supporting documents such as resumes and letters of support. Applications must be submitted via email to the designated embassy grants address. Applications are due by May 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM Bangui time. The review process includes an eligibility screening followed by evaluation based on criteria such as program quality, organizational capacity, project planning, budget justification, monitoring and evaluation, and sustainability. Applicants are typically notified within 120 days after the deadline. Successful applicants will enter into a formal grant agreement and must comply with reporting, branding, and federal regulatory requirements throughout the project period.

Ensure strong alignment with U.S. foreign policy priorities demonstrate measurable outcomes and provide detailed budget justification with clear linkage to activities