U.S.-Qatar Strategic Partnership Initiative: Economic, Technology, and Security Cooperation (Freedom 250 Commemorative)

The U.S. Department of State, through the U.S. Embassy in Qatar Public Affairs Section, has issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) titled U.S.-Qatar Strategic Partnership Initiative: Economic, Technology, and Security Cooperation (Freedom 250 Commemorative). This federal funding opportunity is designed to advance U.S. strategic interests in Qatar by supporting programs that strengthen bilateral cooperation in economic development, technology innovation, and security collaboration. The initiative is funded through FY25 Smith Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds and reflects a broader diplomatic objective of reinforcing U.S. leadership and partnership in key global sectors. The program is not intended for traditional cultural programming, but rather for targeted, impact-driven initiatives aligned with U.S. foreign policy priorities. The primary purpose of this grant is to support projects that position the United States as Qatar’s preferred partner in areas such as artificial intelligence, energy, advanced manufacturing, and critical infrastructure. Projects must demonstrate how American systems of open information, innovation, and governance contribute to technological advancement and security. The initiative is structured around four thematic areas: strategic economic and technology partnership; open information and innovation; sovereignty and security cooperation; and American heritage tied to modern innovation through the Freedom 250 commemoration. Applicants must select at least one theme and clearly align their proposed activities with measurable outcomes and strategic objectives. Funding for this opportunity totals approximately $200,000, with individual awards ranging from $10,000 to $100,000. Multiple awards are anticipated depending on funding availability and proposal quality. The funding mechanism may take the form of a grant, cooperative agreement, or fixed amount award, and may include substantial involvement from the U.S. Embassy in program implementation. Projects must be completed within a performance period of 6 to 18 months, with an anticipated project start date of September 15, 2026. While cost sharing is encouraged, it is not required for eligibility. Eligibility for this funding opportunity is limited to specific applicant types. Eligible entities include nonprofit and community-based organizations registered in Qatar, Qatari government institutions, individuals who are citizens or residents of Qatar, and educational institutions in both Qatar and the United States (with U.S. institutions required to partner with local Qatari affiliates). For-profit entities are explicitly excluded. Applicants must demonstrate relevant experience, particularly with Qatari audiences, and are required to submit only one proposal per organization. Additionally, organizations must maintain a valid registration in SAM.gov and possess a Unique Entity Identifier unless exempted. The application process requires submission of standard federal forms (SF-424 series), a detailed proposal narrative of up to 10 pages, a comprehensive budget and justification, and supporting documentation such as resumes, letters of support, and proof of nonprofit status. Proposals must include clearly defined objectives, target audiences, implementation strategies, and monitoring and evaluation plans. Applications must be submitted via email to Dohagrants@state.gov, with all materials in English and budgets in U.S. dollars. The deadline for submission is July 16, 2026 at 5:00 PM Doha time, and late submissions will not be considered. Applications will be evaluated based on criteria including program quality and feasibility, organizational capacity, project planning, budget justification, monitoring and evaluation, and sustainability. The review process includes a technical eligibility screening followed by evaluation by a review panel. Applicants can expect notification of results within approximately 120 days after the deadline. Funded recipients will be required to comply with federal reporting requirements, including quarterly progress and financial reports, and adhere to U.S. Department of State branding and compliance policies. For additional information or questions, applicants may contact the U.S. Embassy Doha Public Affairs Section via email at Dohagrants@state.gov. A question submission deadline of June 15, 2026 is established, with responses provided through a public Q&A session. A virtual bidding conference is also scheduled to support applicants. This funding opportunity represents a strategic investment in strengthening U.S.-Qatar relations through targeted, high-impact programming aligned with mutual economic, technological, and security interests.

Ensure strong alignment with U.S. strategic objectives define measurable outcomes clearly target priority audiences and demonstrate capacity and prior experience