Notice of Funding Opportunity 2026 Lebanon

The Notice of Funding Opportunity for Lebanon is issued by the U.S. Department of State through the Public Diplomacy Section at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut. This funding opportunity is part of the Smith Mundt Public Diplomacy program and is designed to strengthen ties between the United States and Lebanon while advancing U.S. foreign policy priorities. The program emphasizes public diplomacy initiatives that promote understanding of U.S. policy, values, and leadership, particularly in areas related to peace, stabilization, and countering misinformation. The Embassy seeks to fund projects that incorporate an American element, such as collaboration with U.S. experts, institutions, or organizations. The primary purpose of this grant is to support initiatives that enhance digital literacy and counter false or adversarial narratives that may undermine stability in Lebanon. The program encourages the use of modern tools, including artificial intelligence, to identify, analyze, and respond to misinformation. Projects should aim to build skills among target audiences, improve recognition of U.S. contributions to regional peace and stability, and promote accurate understanding of U.S. policies. Applicants are expected to clearly define their objectives, target audiences, and measurable outcomes, with a strong emphasis on monitoring and evaluation. Funding for this opportunity totals approximately five hundred thousand dollars, with individual awards ranging from about one hundred thousand to two hundred fifty thousand dollars. The program anticipates issuing two awards, depending on available funding and proposal quality. Projects must be completed within a period of nine to eighteen months, with a required start date no later than September 30, 2026. While cost sharing is encouraged, it is not required. Funds may not be used for construction, direct social services, political activities, religious programming, or other restricted uses outlined in the solicitation. Eligibility is limited to not for profit Lebanese organizations, including civil society organizations and think tanks. For profit entities are not eligible to apply, though partnerships and subcontracting arrangements are permitted if clearly defined. Applicants must have a valid Unique Entity Identifier and active registration in SAM.gov, although exemptions may be granted in limited cases. Only one application per organization is allowed, and failure to comply results in disqualification. The application process requires submission of standard federal forms, including SF 424, SF 424A, and SF 424B where applicable, along with a detailed narrative proposal of no more than eight pages. Required components include a proposal summary, organizational background, problem statement, program design, timeline, staffing plan, partnerships, and a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation plan. Applicants must also submit a detailed line item budget and a budget justification narrative explaining how requested funds support project objectives. Supporting documents such as resumes, letters of support, and proof of nonprofit status are also required. Applications must be submitted via email to the designated Embassy grants inbox by August 7, 2026 at 11 59 PM Beirut time. Questions regarding the application process must be submitted by July 20, 2026, with responses provided the following day. Proposals are evaluated based on criteria including program quality, organizational capacity, feasibility, budget justification, and monitoring and evaluation plans. Successful applicants are typically notified within one hundred twenty days after the deadline. Award recipients must comply with federal regulations and reporting requirements, including quarterly progress and financial reports. Additional requirements may include risk assessments, financial oversight, and compliance certifications. The program may be renewed or extended at the discretion of the Department of State based on performance and funding availability. This opportunity represents a strategic investment in strengthening public understanding and resilience in Lebanon through targeted, high impact programming.

Ensure strong alignment with U.S. foreign policy priorities and include measurable outcomes with a detailed monitoring and evaluation plan