Pax Silica Artificial Intelligence Assistance Project

The Pax Silica Artificial Intelligence Assistance Project is a federal funding opportunity issued by the Office of the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs within the U.S. Department of State. This initiative is part of the broader Pax Silica program, which aims to strengthen global artificial intelligence supply chain security through collaboration with allied and partner economies. The program is designed to advance economic and national security objectives by fostering resilient, transparent, and trusted technology ecosystems across critical sectors such as semiconductors, infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to support the development of a trusted supply chain credentialing and provenance platform that enhances the security and traceability of AI-related goods and technologies. The project is envisioned as a pilot initiative beginning in Panama, with the potential to expand to additional partner countries. The platform will enable verification of origin, custody, and compliance across supply chains, while integrating with existing customs and logistics systems. This effort supports broader policy goals related to reducing reliance on strategic competitors and strengthening international economic partnerships. Funding under this opportunity is substantial, with total available funding of approximately fifty million dollars and anticipated awards ranging from one million to fifty million dollars. The Department expects to issue between one and three cooperative agreements, reflecting a high level of federal involvement in project planning and execution. The period of performance is generally expected to be twenty four months, with the possibility of extension to thirty six months if justified. Projects are intended to be sustainable beyond the federal funding period, ideally transitioning to non government funding sources after completion. Eligible applicants include U.S. based for profit organizations, nonprofit organizations regardless of tax status, and public or private institutions of higher education. Applicants must maintain a valid registration in SAM.gov and possess a Unique Entity Identifier. While cost sharing is not required, proposals that include at least twenty five thousand dollars in cost sharing will receive additional evaluation points. Applicants are limited to submitting one application, although that application may include multiple independent projects. The application process requires submission through Grants.gov and includes a comprehensive package of required documents. These include standard federal forms, a project narrative, budget documentation, monitoring and evaluation plans, and supporting materials such as key personnel information and past performance records. The proposal narrative must clearly articulate the problem being addressed, project objectives, methodologies, and expected outcomes. Evaluation criteria include project quality, organizational capacity, feasibility, cost effectiveness, monitoring and evaluation rigor, sustainability, and cost sharing. Applications must be submitted by August 20, 2026 at eleven fifty nine PM Eastern Time. The anticipated project start date is October 1, 2026, and unsuccessful applicants will be notified by November 30, 2026. Questions regarding the application process must be submitted via email, and responses will be posted publicly on a rolling basis prior to the deadline. The Department of State will conduct a competitive review process, including technical eligibility screening and a merit based evaluation by subject matter experts. Overall, this funding opportunity represents a significant investment in advancing secure and resilient AI supply chains through international collaboration. By supporting the development of innovative digital infrastructure and verification systems, the Pax Silica Artificial Intelligence Assistance Project aims to enhance transparency, reduce vulnerabilities, and promote long term economic partnerships aligned with U.S. strategic interests.

Ensure strong alignment with stated objectives; demonstrate measurable outcomes; include cost sharing for additional evaluation points; provide detailed and realistic budget justification; emphasize sustainability beyond funding period