Annual Program Statement for Public Diplomacy Mission Mexico - FY26

The Annual Program Statement for Public Diplomacy Mission Mexico is administered by the Public Diplomacy Section of the U.S. Department of State. This federal funding opportunity is designed to support initiatives that strengthen mutual understanding and cultural ties between the United States and Mexico. The program operates under the Public Diplomacy Grants Program and aligns with broader U.S. foreign policy objectives, particularly in fostering bilateral cooperation across cultural, educational, economic, and security domains. The opportunity reflects the Department’s strategic emphasis on engagement with international audiences and the promotion of American values and perspectives abroad. The primary purpose of this grant is to fund programs that incorporate a strong U.S. cultural or institutional component while addressing key thematic priorities identified by the U.S. Embassy in Mexico. These priorities include showcasing American innovation, countering adversarial influence, combating organized crime and fentanyl-related issues, strengthening the perception of the United States as a preferred partner, and advancing trade and workforce development. Eligible projects may include academic lectures, cultural workshops, professional exchanges, and entrepreneurship initiatives, among others. Programs are expected to deliver measurable outcomes such as increased collaboration, enhanced skills development, and improved awareness of U.S. values. Funding for this opportunity ranges from 50000 to 500000 dollars per award, with a total program funding pool of 500000 dollars, pending availability of funds. The Department anticipates making between one and ten awards, with a project performance period of up to 18 months. Funding may be issued as either a grant or a cooperative agreement. While cost sharing is encouraged, it is not required, allowing applicants flexibility in structuring their budgets. However, strict funding restrictions apply, including prohibitions on construction, direct social services, partisan political activities, and commercial or religious programming. Eligibility for this opportunity is broad and inclusive. Applicants may include nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, individuals, public international organizations, and governmental institutions. However, for-profit entities are not eligible as primary recipients. Organizations must demonstrate appropriate administrative capacity, including registration in SAM.gov and possession of a Unique Entity Identifier, except for individuals who are exempt from these requirements. Each organization may submit only one proposal, and partnerships or subcontracts must clearly define roles and responsibilities. The application process requires submission of several standardized federal forms, including SF-424 series documents, along with a detailed narrative proposal not exceeding five pages. Applicants must also provide a comprehensive budget and justification, resumes for key personnel, letters of support from partners, and documentation of nonprofit status where applicable. Proposals must clearly articulate the problem being addressed, program objectives, implementation strategy, timeline, and monitoring and evaluation plan. The evaluation process places strong emphasis on program quality, organizational capacity, feasibility, budget justification, and measurable outcomes. Applications must be submitted via email to the designated Department of State inbox, with all materials in English and budgets expressed in U.S. dollars. The final application deadline is August 10, 2026, and questions must be submitted by July 31, 2026. Applicants can expect notification of funding decisions within approximately 120 days after the deadline. Successful applicants will be required to comply with federal reporting requirements, including quarterly progress and financial reports, and adhere to branding and marking guidelines associated with U.S. government funding. This opportunity represents a recurring annual funding mechanism, allowing the Department of State to continually support innovative public diplomacy initiatives in Mexico. Projects selected under this program are expected to begin between August and September 2026, with the possibility of continuation funding based on performance and availability of funds. Overall, the program provides a structured yet flexible framework for organizations to contribute to U.S.-Mexico relations through impactful, culturally relevant programming.

Ensure strong alignment with U.S. foreign policy priorities; provide detailed measurable objectives and outcomes; demonstrate organizational capacity and prior grant management experience