2026 U.S. Embassy Caracas PDS Annual Program Statement

The U.S. Department of State, through the U.S. Embassy Caracas Public Diplomacy Section (PDS), has released an Annual Program Statement (APS) to support public diplomacy initiatives aligned with U.S. foreign policy priorities in Venezuela. This funding opportunity is administered under the Smith-Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds and is designed to strengthen bilateral relationships, promote shared values, and foster collaboration between the United States and Venezuela. The program emphasizes initiatives that contribute to Venezuela’s economic recovery, transformation, and long-term growth while reinforcing connections between institutions, professionals, and communities in both countries. The primary purpose of this APS is to solicit proposals that align with a three-phase strategic plan focused on economic revitalization and institutional cooperation. The program prioritizes projects in two major areas: first, building cooperation networks in energy, mining, and technology sectors to stimulate economic growth and workforce development; and second, strengthening higher education partnerships through exchanges, curriculum development, research collaboration, and career services. All funded projects must include a clear American component that promotes U.S. culture, values, or expertise and fosters sustainable bilateral engagement. Funding for this opportunity is expected to total approximately $500,000, with individual awards ranging from $25,000 to $200,000 and up to ten awards anticipated. Projects must be completed within an 18-month performance period, with a projected start date of September 1, 2026. While cost sharing is encouraged, it is not required. Funds are restricted from being used for activities such as construction, direct social services, partisan political activities, fundraising, or scientific research, and must instead support programmatic activities aligned with public diplomacy goals. Eligible applicants include registered non-profit organizations, civil society groups, think tanks, and educational institutions, whether non-profit or governmental. For-profit entities are not eligible to apply as primary recipients, though they may participate as sub-contractors. Applicants must demonstrate organizational capacity, relevant experience, and compliance with federal requirements, including obtaining a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and maintaining active registration in SAM.gov. Only one proposal per organization is permitted. The application process requires submission of standard federal forms (SF-424 series), a detailed proposal narrative, a monitoring and evaluation plan, a theory of change, a detailed budget and justification, and supporting documentation such as proof of non-profit status and partner letters. Applications must be submitted electronically via email and must adhere strictly to formatting and content requirements. Proposals are evaluated based on criteria including program quality, organizational capacity, feasibility, budget justification, monitoring and evaluation strength, and sustainability. The application deadline for this funding opportunity is April 30, 2026. Applicants may submit proposals at any time prior to the deadline. Following submission, applicants can expect notification of results within approximately 120 days. Selected applicants will enter into a grant agreement with the Department of State and must comply with reporting requirements, including quarterly program and financial reports and final reports within 120 days of project completion. This APS is issued annually, indicating a recurring opportunity subject to funding availability and strategic priorities.

Ensure strong alignment with U.S. foreign policy priorities include a clear American component demonstrate measurable outcomes through a robust M&E plan and provide detailed realistic budgets aligned to program goals