International Development Grants

Section 2391(d) of Title 10, United States Code (10 U.S.C. 2391(d)), authorizes the Secretary of Defense to make grants, conclude cooperative agreements, and supplement funds available under Federal programs administered by agencies other than the Department of Defense to assist State and local governments to address deficiencies in community infrastructure supportive of a military installation. Community infrastructure projects are transportation projects, community support facilities (e.g., schools, hospitals, police, fire, and emergency response), and utility infrastructure projects (e.g., water, wastewater, telecommunications, electric, gas, etc.) that are located off of a military installation or on property under the jurisdiction of a Secretary of a military department that is subject to a real estate agreement (including a lease or easement), and are owned by a state or local government or a not-for-profit, member-owned utility service. This Notice identifies the criteria established for the selection of community infrastructure projects. Proposals will be competitively scored across these criteria, identified in Section E., paragraph 1. of this Notice. Program funding at $100 million is available and will expire if not obligated prior to the close of business on September 30, 2024. Project proposals must include a letter of support from the local installation commander representing the installation benefitting from the proposed project. Letters of support must, at a minimum, indicate the benefitting installations need for the project, willingness to support the civilian execution of the project to the extent practicable, including assisting the Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation with technical review and execution of any required National Environmental Policy Act documentation for the proposed project, and, where applicable, indicate if the proposed project is defense-related critical infrastructure. For proposals for projects that will contribute to the training of cadets enrolled in an independent program at a covered educational institution, the letter of support must include the support of an installation commander for an installation benefitting from the proposed project, regardless of the distance between the covered educational institution and the installation benefitting from the project.

This program provides funding for cultural and educational projects that strengthen ties between the United States and Georgia, particularly benefiting underserved communities and promoting shared values.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The U.S. Embassy Conakry Public Diplomacy Section of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations to submit a statement of interest (SOI) to carry out projects to strengthen information integrity in Guinea for the purposes of reducing stigmatization and instrumentalization of communal identities in at-risk communities. Proposed projects should seek 1) to improve the accuracy and conflict-sensitivity of reporting in Guineas media landscape and 2) to increase Guineans awareness of and ability to counter mis- and dis-information. Projects should aim to target communities at high risk for stigmatization or instrumentalization of communal identities. Public Diplomacy Section Conakry invites organizations interested in potential funding to submit SOI applications outlining program concepts that reflect these goals. Please carefully follow all instructions below. This opportunity is designed to contribute to the U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability (SPCPS) in Coastal West Africa. The SPCPS seeks to promote peace and prevent violent conflict and violent extremism that risks destabilizing Coastal West Africa (including Guinea, Cote dIvoire, Ghana, Togo, and Benin). It aims to implement a new policy approach that addresses the political drivers of fragility and supports locally driven solutions. The submission of the SOI is the first step in a two-step process. Applicants must first submit a concise one- to three-page statement of interest in English via this form that clearly communicates program idea and objectives. This is not a full proposal. The purpose of the SOI process is to allow applicants to submit program ideas for evaluation prior to the required development of a full proposal application. Upon a merit review of eligible SOIs, selected applicants will be invited to expand on their program idea(s) by submitting a full proposal application. Full proposals will go through a second merit review before final funding decision(s) are made.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The U.S. Embassy Yerevan, of the U.S. Department of State, announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to carry out a program that will enhance the knowledge of English among the target audiences. The initiative will advance the U.S. Government goal of promoting English language learning and enhancing the understanding of U.S. culture and values. The initiative will also advance youth empowerment through skills-development activities for them to become competitive in academic and professional pursuits, and to become active citizens of their country. The initiative will specifically focus on the displaced Armenian youth of Nagorno-Karabakh (NK), aiming to provide them with English language skills and capacity-building activities to facilitate integration and preparation for the workforce. Priority Region: Yerevan and its suburbs (including neighboring communities). Applicants are strongly encouraged to involve beneficiaries from under-privileged/under-served communities. Executive Summary The U.S. Embassy in Armenia advances U.S. interests by helping Armenia succeed as a secure, prosperous, and democratic country, at peace with its neighbors, and more closely integrated with the Euro-Atlantic community. One of U.S. Embassy Yerevan Public Diplomacy Sections objectives is to promote English language learning and to enhance the understanding of U.S. culture and values. The initiative aims to enhance English language proficiency among youth and young adults as well as provide capacity-building activities. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh in acquiring the skills necessary to access educational and employment opportunities, this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is designed to address these challenges by supporting individual capacity-building in English education. Background The U.S. Embassy in Yerevan has invested in projects and activities that have promoted English language learning and offered professional development opportunities to the English teaching community. These initiatives aim to equip educators with modern teaching methodologies, fostering a student-centered learning environment, and facilitating growth through mentorship and expert guidance in the field. The U.S. Embassy has broadened its programming to cater to a more diverse audience, offering support for English language skill development and professional development that enhance employability and foster a global perspective. Beneficiaries of the U.S. missions English programs have expanded to include representatives of media outlets, government communications team members, and young adults from diverse backgrounds. English language proficiency enables beneficiaries to access diverse sources of information, attain better employment opportunities, compete in academic arenas, actively engage in community life, and communicate effectively on an international level in an increasingly globalized world. This initiative will address the emergent needs of young displaced Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh. By equipping them with English language proficiency and essential skills, this project will enhance their prospects for professional development and employment, and contribute to their integration into wider educational and employment networks, fostering resilience and empowerment within this community. This project not only serves the broader objectives of promoting English language learning and fostering cultural understanding, but also addresses the specific needs of displaced Armenians, thereby contributing to their long-term inclusion. Project Goals and Objectives The goal of this program is to expand the community of English language learners among Armenian youth and young adults, and to promote understanding of U.S. culture and democratic values through tailored content. The current project also addresses the need for skills development among youth and young adults from Nagorno Karabakh to contribute to resilience and integration for displaced Armenians resulting from Azerbaijans military offensive in Nagorno Karabakh in September 2023. The project aims to support Armenians from NK to diversify their skills to be able to aspire to more opportunities in education and employment. More details can be found in the attached NOFO

The "Seeking Engagement with Uganda Local Organizations" grant is an initiative by USAID to gather information about potential local partners in Uganda to better understand the local landscape and invite them to participate in stakeholder engagements over the next six months, but it does not promise or commit to any future contracts or services.

To implement a project aimed at advancing U.S. foreign policy and national security priorities outlined in the Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) Act of 2022 (Div. A, P.L. 117-167). The Act established a new International Technology Security and Innovation Fund (ITSI Fund) to to support the development and adoption of secure semiconductors, [and] semiconductor supply chains with the goal to make the global semiconductor supply chain more resilient, diversified, and secure.

The U.S. Embassy Phnom Penh Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of the U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce that funding is available through its Public Diplomacy Small Grants Program. This is an Annual Program Statement, outlining funding priorities, strategic themes we focus on, and the procedures for submitting requests for funding. Please carefully follow all instructions below.Purpose of Small Grants:PDS Phnom Penh invites proposals for programs that strengthen ties between the U.S. and Cambodia through cultural, educational, artistic, and creative programming that highlights U.S.-Cambodian shared values and promotes bilateral cooperation. All programs must include an American cultural element, or connection with American expert/s, organization/s, or institution/s in a specific field that will promote increased understanding of U.S. policy, culture, values, and perspectives. Past examples of PDS Small Grants Program programs include, but are not limited to: Academic and professional lectures, seminars and speaker programs; Artistic and cultural workshops, joint performances and exhibitions; Professional and academic exchanges and programs; Cultural heritage conservation and preservation programs; Priority Program Areas: Empowering and/or educating youth to spur economic growth. Development of womens entrepreneurship and womens empowerment. Protecting the environment and strengthening resolve regional issues including but not limited to Lower Mekong issues, food security, water, and energy challenges. Programs to advance and promote human rights, including freedom of press and expression. Strengthening the understanding of civic engagement: making use of the interconnections of modern society to strengthen democracy. Projects or programs focusing on preservation, education, or economic growth for/with minority groups in Cambodia.

PAS Paramaribo invites proposals from NGOs, individuals and government educational institutions for programs that contribute to the improvement of social, economic or environmental conditions in Suriname and which further one or more of the priorities listed below. All programs must include a connection with American cultural element(s), expert(s), organization(s) or institution(s) that will promote increased understanding of U.S. policy, culture, and perspectives.Priority Program Areas Strengthening democracy Promoting civic involvement, free and fair elections, or democratic governance at the local or national level in a non-partisan manner.Addressing climate change and environmental education Nurturing efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change and reduce food and water insecurity, particularly among underserved and vulnerable populations.Limiting Corruption - Supporting efforts to counter or prevent corruption in business or government, including efforts to develop greater fiscal transparency, enhance the rule of law, and/or protect intellectual property rights.Supporting a free and expressive media environment Strengthening the professionalism of the media and/or advancing media literacy within the population.Advancing diversity, equality, inclusion, and accessibility for all marginalized communities Addressing issues involving ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, physical disabilities, and/or indigenous and tribal communities.Promoting academic linkages Creating programs or exchanges designed to increase college and university professional linkages between the U.S. and Suriname, especially with community colleges and technical schools.Empowering women Creating programs focused on the mentorship of women entrepreneurs and/or supporting womens increased participation in civil society.Developing Alumni Supporting programs led by, supported by, or involving the Suriname American Alumni Association, its members, or alumni of U.S. exchange programs.Enhancing agricultural production Supporting efforts that advance understanding of modern agricultural practices and expanding entrepreneurship skills with the goal of increasing exports to U.S. and EU markets.Supporting cultural exchange Hosting cultural performances, artistic workshops, trainings, and exhibitions that highlight the deep and ongoing ties between the United States and Suriname and our shared democratic values.

The English Access Scholarship Program (formerly the English Access Microscholarship Program), established in 2004, is a multifaceted public diplomacy initiative at the forefront of global English language learning and the enhancement of English teaching capacity. With over 200,000 student alumni and over 10,000 teacher alumni in more than 85 countries, the English Access Scholarship Program (Access) is recognized as a high-profile, strategic program that supports U.S. foreign policy objectives, while providing educational opportunities for future leaders globally. Emphasizing critical thinking and employing student-centered and communicative approaches, the program's teaching methodology targets bright, underserved students, primarily aged 13 to 20. The Access Program focuses on four pillars that are integrated into all components of the program: global citizenship themes, 21st-century skills, U.S. culture and values, and communicative English language instruction. The Office of English Language Programs (ECA/A/L), Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs anticipates approximately 15,000 participants, including teachers, students, and alumni. Programming may be in-person, virtual, or hybrid and occur in-country, in the region, and in the United States. ECA launched the Access Program in 2004. The program has expanded to become a foundational element in the Bureaus continuum of exchanges to reach younger and more diverse audiences worldwide. For nearly over a decade, professional development for teachers has also been an integral part of the program. Many Access programs are serving as model classrooms for English teaching in their countries. Only one proposal will be considered by ECA from each applicant organization. In cases where more than one submission from an applicant appears in grants.gov, ECA will only consider the submission made closest in time to the NOFO deadline; that submission would constitute the one and only proposal ECA would review from that applicant. Please see the full announcement for additional information.

The Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to carry out a project to strengthen independent media entities and their members as well as local organizations that will support independent media in Central America. This project will assist in conducting better investigations and provide fact-based reporting on crime and corruption through an evolving media landscape to inform populations and hold power-holders accountable, improving transparency and accountability in Central America.

The Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of the U.S. Mission to Pakistan of the U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce an open competition for awards available through the Mission Pakistan PublicDiplomacy Grants Program. This Annual Program Statement (APS) outlines our broad funding priorities,strategic themes, and the procedure for submitting requests for funding. Applications for funding will be accepted until June 30, 2024. Applicants may apply for funding for small grants (between $10,000 and $40,000) or large grants (between $50,000 and $150,000). Preference will be given to applications that make clear their careful consideration of effective use of resources. Please follow carefully allinstructions below and use the grant application document and budget template found on our website.This APS was developed to support projects proposed by U.S. and Pakistani not-for-profit organizations,think tanks, and educational institutions that fulfill the U.S. Mission to Pakistans foreign policy goals andobjectives.

Executive Summary The U.S. Embassy Ashgabat, Turkmenistan announces an open competition to implement a program to operate three (3) American Corners in Turkmenistan in Dashoguz, Mary and Turkmenabat. Other American Corners may be developed at the direction of the Public Diplomacy Section. American Spaces in Turkmenistan is a network of PD-funded cultural centers, which are a global network of over 600 State Department-sponsored cultural centers. The American Spaces in Turkmenistan conduct youth-oriented cultural and experiential learning programs to improve skills in English, STEM, entrepreneurship, and climate change awareness. The primary audience for these programs will be Turkmen youth, including girls and women, school and university students, teachers, young professionals, especially from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, and USG alumni. The award recipient will be responsible for overseeing administrative aspects of the American Spaces program, to include staffing of selected corners, training logistics, and equipment and facility maintenance. The recipient will also assist in implementing American Spaces programming with significant Public Diplomacy Section input and assistance to ensure the programming meets Mission goals and objectives. Potential implementor will also be responsible for planning, executing, closing, and monitoring and evaluation of all the activities and programs conducted at the American Corners. The expected date range for implementation of this project is May 1, 2025 to April 30, 2026. Please follow the instructions below for the application. Background American Spaces are the premier public diplomacy platform of the U.S. Embassy Ashgabat in Turkmenistan that has been strengthening mutual understanding and friendship between the people of Turkmenistan and the United States of America for almost 20 years. American Spaces are located in Ashgabat, Dashoguz, Mary and Turkmenabat and offer English resources and development opportunities to meet interests of diverse audiences, while also serving as gateways for the Turkmen citizens to learn about American society, culture and education. The American Spaces are well known in the community for their regular English-language activities, such as conversation groups with native speakers, workshops with visiting specialists, and regular presentations by Americans on U.S. life and culture. American Spaces also partner with international and local organizations (e.g., the Smithsonian Institution) to conduct highly impactful programs, such as the Academy for Women Entrepreneurship in partnership with Arizona State Universitys School of Global Management, a variety of STEM programs to introduce local youth to web design and app development, as well as book festivals and eco festivals. Project Audiences The primary audiences for American Spaces in Turkmenistan are: a. School and university students b. School and university teachers c. Young professionals, such as current/aspiring entrepreneurs d. Girls and women e. Civil society representatives f. USG programs alumni Project Goal To deepen mutual understanding, foster collaboration and cultivate partnerships between the people of the United States and Turkmenistan through free-of-charge cultural and experiential learning programs conducted at American Corners in all the regions of Turkmenistan: Dashoguz, Mary and Turkmenabat. Project Objectives Objective 1. Oversee and administer American Corners operations within the allocated budget over a 12-month period, demonstrated by implementation of innovative solutions to technical and logistical challenges, maintenance of staffs high professional standards, and cost-efficient maintenance of spaces, while maintaining the modern aesthetic and accessibility standards of American Spaces. The implementer will maintain the American Corners physical space in safe, accessible, and welcoming and inspiring environment that is designed in accordance with modern American Spaces branding recommendations; provide logistical support with procurement, shipping and technical and Internet service to meet the Corners programming needs; and constantly seek opportunities to reduce the cost of rent; hire and retain top talent to work at American Corners, provide professional development to staff; and ensure publicity of Corner offerings and programs via social/print media. The American Spaces standards mandate that all American Corners maintain collections of books, magazines, computer workstations, and an area for programs. All materials at the American Cornersto include internet accessmust be free and open to the public. American Corners may vary in size, but have the following minimum characteristics: Secure location with public access; Minimum size of approximately 100 square meters; Library containing a minimum of 500 English books selected and provided by the U.S. Mission; Program venue to accommodate 20 people; Open and accessible to women and girls; Accessible to people with disabilities; Furniture, such as: o 1520 chairs o 23 reading tables o 58 computer desks o 2 office desks with chair Equipment, such as: o 1 printer o 1 copier o 1 scanner o 1 digital camera o 12 gas heaters as required o 1 air conditioner as required o 510 computer workstations o 58 uninterruptible power supply (UPS) units o 1 laptop o 5-10 iPads o 1 projector screen o 1 sound system (speakers + mic for public programs) o 3D Printer o MakerSpace robotic and technology materials The three existing American Corners in Dashoguz, Mary and Turkmenabat already have the equipment and furniture mentioned above, which will be made available for the new implementing partner. Objective 2. Design and execute a range of diverse programming activities across six core areas of American Spaces (explained below) in alignment with Mission goals, demonstrated by sustained participation and increases in participant turnout. American Spaces operate based on the global standards of the American Spaces program. These standards mandate that every American Corner offer programming in six core areas free of charge for all the participants: 1. English language teaching and learning: Increase English language proficiency and instructional skills of English language learners and English language teachers, particularly for underserved audiences by facilitating a wide range of programs that build the skills of English language teachers and promote English language learning. American Corners provide access to English language speakers and professional development/teacher training resources provided by the State Department. 2. Information about the United States: Increase awareness and understanding of our primary audiences about American history, culture, and society through people-people diplomacy. American Corners also offer collections of English books, videos, newspapers, magazines, photo galleries, and Internet access and ensure these collections remain accurate, up to date, and audience appropriate. 3. Educational advising: Increase the knowledge and skills of high-school students on higher education opportunities in the United States by providing accurate, comprehensive, and up-to-date guidance on applying to U.S. colleges and universities. 4. Alumni engagement: Support continuing engagement with alumni of U.S. exchange programs and cultural enrichment programs, connecting them to local audiences by sharing their U.S. experience and expertise to benefit the local communities. 5. Skills Building: Develop skills and increase capacity of the Turkmen population to meet global challenges, mitigate crises, increase trade, support inclusive and sustainable economic growth and opportunity and strengthen resilience to economic, technological, environmental and other global challenges. American Corners continue offering programs to meet interests of diverse audiences in the regions especially by organizing projects that promote English language, innovation, entrepreneurship, environmental protection, and gender equality in STEM, as well as teach skills such as critical thinking and media literacy, resume writing and job promotion, how to launch entrepreneurial or social development projects, how to use makerspace equipment to conduct projects. 6. Strategic Cultural Programs: Foster people-to-people connections, increase understanding and build respect towards the United States with Turkmenistan audiences through cultural programs, that can include visual and performing arts, film, literature, health, food culture/cuisine, sports, science and technology, volunteerism, makerspace activities, environment, civil society, and entrepreneurship introducing Turkmen audiences to virtually any aspect of culture, from an American perspective. American Corners are encouraged to take advantage of the full scope of cultural programming resources offered by the State Department, including arts, sports, and science envoys; speaker programs; films; the GLOBE program (Global Learning and Observation to Benefit the Environment); Model UN programs; and print and digital offerings developed by the State Department and the Smithsonian Institution. Objective 3. Establish sustained partnerships with local organizations to curate and implement cultural and experiential learning initiatives for local communities, demonstrated by increased number of joint outreach efforts. Examples of those public engagement initiatives can include joint Book Festivals, Cultural Concerts, Eco Festivals, film screenings, and regional and national competitions. Objective 4. Increase participation of primary audiences from the regions in U.S. Embassy programs by facilitating access to exchange programs, training opportunities, and study tours, demonstrated by the increase in qualified applicants from the regions.

This grant provides financial assistance to Florida-based manufacturers and service providers looking to expand their export sales by facilitating meetings with qualified international buyers and agents.

This program provides financial assistance to small and medium-sized Florida companies to help them participate in international trade shows and expand their export sales.

The Florida Online Global-Website Localization Grant aims to help exporters expand their overseas presence through website localization services. The program, in partnership with IBT Online and SelectFlorida, offers various options for website globalization, including predefined and customized websites, website redesign, and e-commerce development, all optimized for target markets. Grants cover partial costs of localization services, with SelectFlorida covering up to $8,000 and the grantee responsible for $4,000 or the balance for customized services. Eligible entities must meet specific qualifications including being Florida-based, meeting minimum sales and employment criteria, and operating in approved sectors.

The U.S. government's support for Kazakhstan's efforts in promoting Kazakh-language and media reflects a commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, promoting cultural exchange, and supporting democratic values and freedoms. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of supporting online Kazakh-language content creators through small grants. This initiative is crucial for several reasons, particularly considering Kazakhstan's efforts to promote its national language and culture while fostering a competitive and professional media landscape. With the number of Kazakh speakers on the rise, there is a growing demand for online content in Kazakh. By facilitating the proliferation of Kazakh-language content online, this assistance award contributes directly to the economic prosperity of Kazakhstan through the promotion of a competitive, professional, and free media landscape. Applicants are encouraged to align their project proposals with one or more of the objectives below, demonstrating how their initiatives will contribute to the advancement of Kazakh-language media. Applicants are welcome to propose projects that innovate in content creation in various forms, including animation, documentaries, apps, reporting, podcasts, and video content, leverage emerging technology, and uphold integrity and accuracy in media production. Project Goal: The primary goal of this assistance is to increase access to high-quality, reliable content for Kazakh-speaking audiences through support for Kazakh online content creators. Project Audience(s): Kazakh-language content creators, social media content creators, as well as technology professionals promoting innovation in the media space. In addition to individual creators, academic or cultural institutions and organizations promoting Kazakh language, history, and culture could form part of the audience. Project Objectives: Project proposals may address one or more of these objectives, or other objectives within the above policy priorities. Objective 1: Supportive ecosystem for content creators: Equip Kazakh-language content creators with necessary knowledge and skills to produce accurate, reliable, and fact-based content. Topics may include fact-checking techniques, critical thinking and analysis, audience engagement strategies, visual storytelling, etc. Objective 2: Technological advancement through Kazakh-language content creation: Develop content creators abilities to integrate new and emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the content creation process. Objective 3: Integrity and accuracy in Kazakh-language media: Increase production of high-quality content that combats disinformation/misinformation and historical manipulation among Kazakh-language content creators.

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces an open competition for organizations interested in eradicating descent-based slavery and discrimination towards enslaved and formerly enslaved persons in the Sahel region of West Africa. Two projects will be awarded; one for Mauritania only and one regional project, focused on two or more countries in the Sahel region of West Africa. If applying to both opportunities, applicants should submit two separate applications.

This funding opportunity helps Florida-based manufacturers and service providers create tailored Export Marketing Plans to identify and pursue international growth strategies.

This Notice of Funding Opportunity will result in the distribution of up to $44,550,000 for two different categories of grants: (1) Planning and Design Grants and (2) Construction Grants.The Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program (ATIIP) projects will help improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of active transportation networks and communities; improve connectivity between active transportation modes and public transportation; enhance the resiliency of on- and off-road active transportation infrastructure and help protect the environment; and improve quality of life in disadvantaged communities through the delivery of connected active transportation networks and expanded mobility opportunities.The ATIIP grants will allow communities to identify, prioritize, and implement improvements to the largest barriers to safe, accessible, and equitable pedestrian and bicycle network connectivity through the development of infrastructure that will provide substantial additional opportunities for walking and bicycling. Eligible organizations will be able to create plans or implement active transportation networks that connect destinations within or between communities or create plans or implement an active transportation spine connecting two or more communities, metropolitan regions, or States. The ATIIP also provides an opportunity for eligible organizations to enhance their overall transportation network by integrating active transportation facilities with transit services, where available, to improve access to public transportation.AMENDMENT 1 TO NOFO issued on 4/15/2024: The purpose of this amendment is to change "Eastern Standard Time" to "Eastern Daylight Time" in the NOFO.

The U.S. Embassy Kingston Public Affairs Section (PAS) of the U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce that funding is available through its Public Diplomacy Grants Program. This Annual Program Statement outlines our funding priorities, strategic themes, and the procedures for submitting requests for funding. The deadline is necessary to provide sufficient time to process and award programs in advance of the end of our fiscal year on September 30, 2024. Project proposals should aim to strengthen ties between the United States and Jamaica by highlighting shared values and promoting bilateral cooperation. Proposals must convey an American element, which supports a priority program area (see below) or includes a connection with American expert(s), organization(s) or institution(s) in a specific field that will promote increased understanding of U.S. policy and perspectives. Priority program areas include: • Climate, Environment, and Energy o For example, addressing the climate crisis, responding to natural disasters, conserving nature, water security, sustainable agriculture, reducing harmful pollutants, energy resilience, and renewable energy. • Combating Financial Scamming and Other Criminal Activity o For example, addressing corruption and money laundering, improving police-public relations, appreciation of the law, teaching digital literacy, detecting financial scamming, and promoting behaviors that increase community safety. • Programs for At-Risk Youth o For example, diversion programs to prevent youth violence, educational programs for critical life skills, and parent/family interventions. • Economic Prosperity o For example, business development, closing skills gaps in local communities, human resources, infrastructure, cybersecurity, resource development, and trade. • Global Health o For example, managing contagious and infectious diseases, public health workforce development, and public health policy and management. • Gender Issues o For example, women’s empowerment, improving outcomes for marginalized male youth, addressing gender-based violence, and LGBTQIA+ issues. • Human Rights and Democracy o For example, addressing fundamental human rights, human trafficking, immigration, refugees, governance, the role of civil society, and freedom of the press/media. Additional details on these policy priorities are available at https://www.state.gov/policy-issues/ Target participants/audiences: • Women and/or youth in underserved communities • Business leaders and entrepreneurs • Community leaders and influencers • Academic and/or cultural institutions • Journalists and/or media organizations The following types of projects are not eligible for funding: • Projects relating to partisan political activity • For-profit activities • Charitable or development activities • Construction projects • Projects that support specific religious activities • Fundraising campaigns • Lobbying for specific legislation or projects • Scientific research • Projects that duplicate existing projects Authorizing legislation, type, and year of funding: Funding authorities applicable are the Smith-Mundt Act and Foreign Assistance Act for FY2024 Public Diplomacy funds.