CyberNext: Advance Cybersecurity and AI Readiness

The CyberNext: Advance Cybersecurity and AI Readiness program is a federal grant opportunity issued by the U.S. Mission to Albania under the Department of State’s American Spaces initiative. This program is designed to strengthen Albania’s cybersecurity infrastructure and artificial intelligence capabilities by leveraging American expertise, standards, and technological leadership. It builds on prior programming conducted through American Corners, which introduced foundational knowledge to Albanian youth and emerging professionals. The initiative reflects broader U.S. foreign policy goals focused on strengthening allied digital resilience, promoting open and secure digital ecosystems, and reinforcing international collaboration in cybersecurity. The primary purpose of the program is to move beyond introductory awareness and develop practical, skills-based competencies in cybersecurity and AI. The grant emphasizes measurable outcomes, requiring proposals to demonstrate how participants will gain actionable skills and how those skills will translate into improved behaviors, resilience, and professional capacity. The program must clearly integrate U.S. technologies, methodologies, and best practices, ensuring that American leadership in these domains is both visible and impactful. Additionally, the initiative is intended to support long-term engagement with Albanian youth and professionals who are positioned to influence the country’s digital future. Funding for this opportunity is limited, with a total program allocation of $14,000 and a single anticipated award. Applicants may request between $5,000 and $14,000. While cost sharing or matching is not required, it is encouraged as a way to strengthen proposals. Funds are expected to support programmatic activities such as training workshops, curriculum development, expert-led sessions, and other initiatives that build cybersecurity and AI readiness. All proposed activities must demonstrate a direct connection to U.S. expertise and align with the strategic objectives of strengthening digital infrastructure and regional security. Eligibility for the program is restricted to non-profit U.S. and Albanian organizations, including think tanks and civil society organizations, as well as individual applicants from either country. For-profit entities are explicitly excluded, even if they otherwise fit within eligible categories. Only one non-profit organization may serve as the prime recipient, although partnerships and subcontracting are permitted if roles and responsibilities are clearly defined. Organizational applicants must possess a valid Unique Entity Identifier and maintain active registration in SAM.gov, while individuals are exempt from these requirements. The application process is expected to open around June 5, 2026, with a submission deadline of July 5, 2026. This is a forecasted opportunity, meaning final application details and materials will be released upon official posting. There are no stated pre-application requirements such as letters of intent or concept papers. Applicants will need to prepare a full proposal outlining program design, objectives, implementation approach, and expected outcomes. Proposals must clearly articulate how activities align with U.S. priorities and demonstrate measurable impact on participant knowledge and capabilities. Evaluation of applications will focus on alignment with program objectives, strength of proposed activities, integration of U.S. expertise, and the ability to achieve measurable outcomes. The anticipated award date is October 1, 2026, though the period of performance is not explicitly stated. Successful applicants will be expected to execute programs that contribute to Albania’s cybersecurity resilience and foster a deeper understanding of AI technologies in line with U.S. standards. For additional information, applicants may contact the Public Affairs Section at the U.S. Embassy in Tirana via email at tiranapdresources@state.gov or by phone at 00355247285. As a forecasted opportunity, applicants are encouraged to monitor updates closely and prepare materials in advance to ensure timely submission once the application window formally opens.

Ensure strong alignment with U.S. cybersecurity and AI expertise and clearly demonstrate measurable participant impact