U.S. Embassy Kuwait PAS Annual Program Statement

The U.S. Embassy in Kuwait, through its Public Diplomacy Section (PDS), administers the Public Diplomacy Small Grants Program to support initiatives that advance U.S. foreign policy priorities and strengthen bilateral relations between the United States and Kuwait. This program is funded through the U.S. Department of State using Smith Mundt Public Diplomacy funds and is designed to promote mutual understanding, enhance cooperation, and reinforce U.S. leadership across strategic sectors. The funding opportunity is structured as an Annual Program Statement, which outlines broad priorities and invites proposals aligned with those themes rather than prescribing narrowly defined project scopes. The primary purpose of this grant program is to support projects that contribute to U.S. security, economic prosperity, cultural engagement, and educational collaboration in Kuwait. Applicants are expected to design programs that clearly demonstrate how their work will make America safer, stronger, or more prosperous while strengthening ties with Kuwaiti stakeholders. Key thematic areas include countering malign influence, enhancing national security cooperation, promoting economic partnerships, and celebrating American values through initiatives such as the Freedom 250 campaign marking the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence. Funding is available for projects ranging from approximately 5000 to 25000 dollars, with total program funding estimated between 100000 and 150000 dollars, depending on availability. The program anticipates awarding up to 10 grants, each with a performance period of one to twelve months. Allowable activities include academic lectures, media training, cultural programs, exchanges, and collaborative research efforts. However, certain activities are explicitly prohibited, including construction, charitable or humanitarian assistance, partisan political activities, fundraising campaigns, and scientific research. While cost sharing is encouraged, it is not required, providing flexibility for applicants with varying financial capacities. Eligibility is limited to Kuwait-based applicants, including registered nonprofit organizations, nongovernmental organizations, educational institutions, and individuals. For-profit entities are not eligible to apply, though subcontracting arrangements are permitted if clearly defined and led by a nonprofit entity. Organizations must obtain a Unique Entity Identifier and maintain an active registration in SAM.gov, while individuals are exempt from these requirements. Applicants are restricted to submitting only one proposal per organization, and failure to comply with application requirements may result in disqualification. The application process requires submission of several standardized federal forms, including SF-424 and associated budget documentation, along with a comprehensive proposal not exceeding 15 pages. The proposal must include a summary, organizational background, problem statement, detailed program design, timeline, personnel information, monitoring and evaluation plan, and sustainability strategy. A detailed budget and justification narrative are also required, along with supporting documents such as resumes, letters of support, and proof of nonprofit status. Applications must be submitted electronically via email to the designated embassy address. Proposals are evaluated based on criteria including program quality and feasibility, organizational capacity, project planning, budget justification, monitoring and evaluation, and sustainability. Each application is scored using a weighted system, with the highest emphasis placed on program design and alignment with U.S. foreign policy objectives. Applicants can expect notification of results within approximately 120 days after the application deadline. Selected projects are expected to begin as early as October 1, 2026, and may be eligible for continuation funding based on performance and funding availability. The application deadline for this funding opportunity is July 15, 2026. This program is issued on an annual basis, allowing for recurring opportunities in future fiscal years. Interested applicants may contact the Public Diplomacy Section at PASKuwaitM@state.gov for additional guidance. Overall, the grant program represents a strategic investment in partnerships that enhance U.S.-Kuwait relations while promoting shared values, innovation, and long-term collaboration.

Align proposal clearly with U.S. foreign policy priorities include measurable objectives and strong monitoring and evaluation plan demonstrate organizational capacity and provide detailed realistic budget justification