CyberNext: Advance Cybersecurity and AI Readiness

The CyberNext Advanced Cybersecurity and AI Readiness funding opportunity is offered by the U.S. Department of State through the Embassy in Tirana, specifically under its Public Diplomacy Section. This program is part of broader U.S. foreign policy and public diplomacy efforts aimed at strengthening international partnerships and advancing American leadership in technology sectors. The initiative focuses on supporting Albania, a NATO ally, in building stronger cyber resilience and digital infrastructure. By leveraging American expertise and standards, the program seeks to reinforce shared security objectives and promote technological alignment between the United States and Albania. The primary purpose of this grant is to design and implement a program that enhances advanced cybersecurity and artificial intelligence capabilities among young Albanian professionals. The initiative targets approximately 300 individuals aged 18 to 35 who already possess foundational knowledge in cybersecurity and AI. Through structured engagement at American Corners in Tirana, Vlora, and Kukes, the program emphasizes practical skill development. Activities are expected to include workshops, simulations, hands-on labs, competitions, and scenario-based exercises that build real-world competencies in threat detection, response, and responsible AI deployment. Funding for this opportunity is relatively modest but targeted, with a total available funding pool of fourteen thousand dollars and a single anticipated award. Individual awards may range from five thousand to fourteen thousand dollars, with a project performance period of six to twelve months. The funding is issued as a cooperative agreement, meaning the U.S. Embassy will maintain substantial involvement throughout the project. Allowable costs include personnel, travel, supplies, and program-related expenses, while restrictions prohibit expenditures on construction, direct social services, partisan political activities, and other non-aligned uses. Eligibility for this funding opportunity is limited to non-profit U.S. and Albanian organizations, including civil society groups and think tanks, as well as individuals from either country. For-profit entities are explicitly excluded from serving as primary recipients, although subcontracting is permitted under a non-profit lead. Applicants must meet administrative requirements such as obtaining a Unique Entity Identifier and maintaining registration in SAM.gov, though individuals are exempt from these requirements. Cost sharing is encouraged but not required, allowing flexibility for applicants with varying financial capacities. The application process requires submission of several mandatory federal forms, including SF-424 and associated budget documentation, along with a detailed proposal narrative of up to six pages. The proposal must outline the project’s objectives, methodology, timeline, personnel, partnerships, and monitoring and evaluation plan. Additional required components include a detailed budget, justification narrative, resumes of key personnel, and documentation of organizational status. Applications must be submitted electronically via email, and all materials must be in English and denominated in U.S. dollars. Applications are due by August 20, 2026 at 11:59 PM Central European Time, with questions accepted until August 17, 2026. Following submission, applications undergo a technical eligibility screening and a merit-based review process evaluating criteria such as program quality, organizational capacity, planning, budget justification, monitoring and evaluation, and sustainability. Applicants can expect notification of results within approximately 120 days after the deadline. The anticipated project start date is October 2026, contingent on funding availability and final approval. The program places strong emphasis on measurable outcomes, requiring recipients to submit regular progress and financial reports. The U.S. Embassy plays an active role in shaping program content, identifying audiences, and guiding implementation to ensure alignment with U.S. policy goals. Overall, this funding opportunity represents a strategic investment in workforce development and international collaboration, aiming to equip a new generation of Albanian professionals with advanced cybersecurity and AI skills grounded in American standards and practices.

Align proposal clearly with U.S. foreign policy objectives emphasize measurable outcomes and provide detailed budget justification demonstrating cost effectiveness