Federal International Development Grants

This grant provides funding for U.S. and Luxembourg-based organizations to develop innovative STEM and space education projects that strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries.

Funding Opportunity Title: Trilateral Women in Security Funding Opportunity Number: PD-SEOUL-FY24-06 Deadline for Applications: August 12, 2024, 11:59 p.m. GMT+9 CFDA Number: 19.040 Total Amount Available: $180,000 This notice is subject to availability of funding. A. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The United States is deeply committed to advancing gender equity and equality as a critical element of peace and security. The security and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region depends on the meaningful integration of women security experts, particularly in the joint cooperation between the United States, Korea, and Japan. To promote this vital cooperation, the U.S. Embassy in Seoul seeks proposals from organizations (preferably Korea-based or in collaboration with a Korea-based organization) to gather five female-identifying experts from both Korea and Japan (a total of ten) to explore the importance of trilateral cooperation in achieving mutual prosperity and security in the region. The selected grantee will coordinate closely with the U.S. embassies in Seoul and Tokyo to design and implement this two-way exchange program to encourage discussion on shared security priorities and effective trilateral engagement. The grantee will also facilitate the publication of any key outcomes following the program, targeting security and foreign policy experts in both countries. Key Themes This program represents the second year of Embassy Seouls Trilateral Women in Security Program (TWIS). While the 2023-2024 iteration of the program focused broadly on trilateral U.S.- Korea-Japan security cooperation, this iteration of the program should promote themes related to trilateral U.S.-Korea- Japan security cooperation on the below issues: o Maritime security. o Critical and emerging technologies: Safeguarding responsible usage of critical and emerging technologies like cyber and space. o AI and Disinformation: Countering the weaponization of Artificial Intelligence and addressing the increasing national security threats posed by foreign information manipulation. Outputs/Outcomes Ten opinion leaders from Korea and Japan will participate in this year-long grant program, including virtual topic-based discussions, exchange activities in Korea and Japan, and the publication of advisory papers and articles detailing lessons learned from the program for secondary audiences. Details/Logistics This is a cooperative agreement. The selected grantee will work closely with U.S. Embassy Seoul and U.S. Embassy Tokyo to develop and manage the program schedule, identify participants, and design on-the-ground exchange activities. The program participants are expected to gather virtually once a month to develop a forward-looking agenda for U.S.-ROK-Japan trilateral cooperation. Program participants should represent women in security, including experts in economic security, emerging technologies, Indo-Pacific Strategy and foreign policy. At the end of the program, participants should draft policy advisory papers, implement press interviews, publish columns in newspapers, and/or conduct public outreach programs to share their findings. Grantee Expectations Think tanks, research institutions, and academic associations are encouraged to apply. This project will facilitate in-depth discussions between Korean and Japanese participants and site visits to organizations in both countries, including ministries of foreign affairs, local research institutes, and other relevant sites. The grantee is expected to have close relations with stakeholders in Korea and Japan for effective communication, planning, and execution. Note: Not mandatory, but you may use the templates provided here: Proposal Template / Budget Template All application materials must be submitted by email to SeoulPDGrants@state.gov

Executive Summary: The U.S. Embassy in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan announces an open competition for organizations to implement the Alumni Support Program in Turkmenistan (ASP). The purpose of this program is to strengthen the role of U.S. Government (USG) program alumni in supporting their communities and growing in their professional careers, while also deepening ties between alumni and across programs, regions and generations. This cooperative agreement will support one organization to oversee administration of small grants, organize events and facilitate better networking among alumni. Audience: past participants of USG programs, including: - Exchange programs: Artist Exchange, BFTF, Community Solutions, CAMEX, FLEX, Fulbright TEA, Fulbright Students, Fulbright Scholars, Humphrey Fellowship, Muskie Fellowship, Open World, IVLP, SUSI for Educators, Scholars, and Students, UGRAD, TechWomen, TechGirls, Alumni Ties. - Embassy-funded non-exchange programs: Prep4Success (P4S), Undergraduate Cohort Advising (UCA), American English Program (AEP), C5+ONE, OPEN. Project Goal: Expand engagement of U.S. government exchange alumni throughout Turkmenistan on key issues through increased networking and professional development opportunities Project Objectives: 1. Increase communication and collaboration between U.S. government exchange program alumni through networking opportunities. 2. Increase the number of alumni-led initiatives leveraging skills and knowledge acquired during exchange programs to address community needs and challenges. 3. Strengthen career and leadership skills of alumni through targeted professional development initiatives, including mentorship and coaching programs. Expected Themes Project Activities to be managed by the implementing partner: 1. Small Grants - Expanding the impact of USG programs in communities across Turkmenistan. The awardee will administer a small grants program for USG alumni and support alumni in developing and implementing projects that share American values, address community needs and/or educate public audiences. Priority will be given to projects that reach underserved communities, enhance the profile of alumni as community leaders and/or target thematic areas (to be agreed during the implementation period). Projects should have measurable outcomes and leverage other community resources when possible, including in-kind donations, public-private partnerships, alumni expertise, and cooperation with public sector institutions. Activities may include but not limited to: Develop a Grants Manual and award criteria. This document is expected to be a comprehensive guide or handbook (internal document for the grantee not for grant applicants) that outlines the process, procedures and best practices related to applying for, managing, and reporting on small grants. It may include but not limited to introduction (overview of purpose), detailed application process (when, how, where announced), eligibility, prioritization, reporting and compliance, budget instructions, monitoring and evaluation, and Q section. Engage with the alumni community in finalizing annual priority themes for the small grants. Publicize the grants program and conduct outreach in all regions of Turkmenistan. Conduct capacity-building seminars on topics such as project management and development, community engagement and monitoring and evaluation, reaching all regions of Turkmenistan. Award at least 20 grants through a competitive and transparent process. Track grant implementation, ensure visibility of grants, publicize success stories within the alumni community and engage grantees in sharing lessons learned. 2. Networking - Supporting a vibrant alumni community and increasing alumni ownership of activities: The awardee will conduct activities to support a vibrant alumni community and increase alumni ownership of all activities by planning events across the country and strengthening the capacity of the U.S.-Turkmenistan Alumni Association (USTAA). Activities: Conduct an alumni needs assessment and update the alumni contacts database. Recruit one Regional Alumni Representative (RAR) in each region, including Balkan, Dashoguz, Lebap and Mary. Attend USTAA meetings as needed and assist in administering USTAA activities and identifying resources for strengthening USTAA administration and pursuing legal registration. Promote opportunities for alumni and share alumni success stories through a quarterly Alumni Newsletter and engage alumni in content creation. Plan and conduct the Annual Alumni Gala for at least 130 alumni from across the country, in partnership with the USTAA. In collaboration with the U.S. Embassy, ensure alumni participation in Pre-Departure Orientations (PDOs) and Re-Entry Seminars for USG exchange programs. Organize at least one networking event in each region per calendar quarter. 3. Professional Development - Improving the leadership capacity of USG alumni. The awardee will support the professional development of USG alumni by providing travel and professional development grants, organizing professional networking events and/or providing other professional development opportunities for alumni. Activities: Develop criteria for issuing individual grants for professional development, such as conferences or short-term training, and publicize these opportunities widely within the alumni community. Hold regular professional development events, such as presentations, networking events, mentorship programs, soft skills workshops, peer-to-peer coaching, discussion clubs, etc., based on need.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for a variety of organizations to promote American culture, sports, and innovation in El Salvador, fostering stronger bilateral relations and cultural exchange.

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor (DRL) announces an open competition for organizations interested in submitting applications in response to to strengthen civil society resilience in Kyrgyz Republic. The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor (DRL) announces an open competition for organizations interested in submitting applications in response to the following solicitation.  DRL anticipates funding one proposal from this solicitation, pending availability of funding.      The Kyrgyz Republic has long had a reputation of having the most vibrant, active civil society and independent media in Central Asia.  In recent years however, concerning trends have put that reputation at risk.  Harassment of activists, independent media and CSOs has intensified, with peaceful rallies limited to specific places, with authorities extending restrictions every few months.       Kyrgyz CSOs now face systematic attacks including arbitrary criminal and administrative prosecutions, deportations, and anonymous offline and online threats. They routinely endure unannounced tax inspections and smear campaigns on social media. Additionally, draft anti-democratic legislation currently for consideration in the Kyrgyz parliament threatens to seriously undermine freedom of association and further restrict CSO operating space.     In this challenging environment, DRL aims to maintain civil space and build civil society resiliency. This project’s primary objective is ensuring Kyrgyz CSOs have the tools, training, resources, and support to remain safely and effectively engaged in their work amid increasing repressions.       Elements of useful programming could include digital and physical security trainings, financial audits, flexible small-grants, legal support, advocacy strategy development, cyber bullying response tactics, or building solidarity networks domestically and internationally. The focus should be holistic, addressing security, legal, financial, operational, and psychosocial needs given the multilayered pressures civil society faces.    Program outcomes could include one or more of the following but are not limited to:    Civil society and community actors operate and coordinate safely to navigate the new/emerging legal operating environment in Kyrgyz Republic.     Kyrgyz civil society organizations have the tools, resources, and support to safely and more effectively remain engaged in their work amid increasing restrictions and repressions that challenge the civic space.  Kyrgyz civil society engages in advocacy on human rights issues.  All programs should aim to have impact that leads to reforms and have the potential for sustainability beyond DRL resources.  DRL’s preference is to avoid duplicating past efforts by supporting new and creative approaches.  This does not exclude from consideration projects that improve upon or expand existing successful projects in a new and complementary way.  DRL is committed to advancing equity and support for underserved and underrepresented communities. In accordance with the Executive Order on Advancing Racial Equity and Underserved Communities, programs should implement strategies for integration and inclusion of individuals/organizations/beneficiaries that can bring perspectives based on their religion, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, sex characteristics, national origin, age, genetic information, marital status, parental status, pregnancy, political affiliation, or veteran’s status.  Programs should be demand-driven and locally led to the extent possible.  DRL requires all programs to be non-discriminatory and expects implementers to include strategies for nondiscrimination of individuals/organizations/beneficiaries based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sex characteristics, sexual orientation, pregnancy, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, marital status, parental status, political affiliation, or veteran’s status.  Competitive proposals may also include a summary budget and budget narrative for 12 additional months following the proposed period of performance, indicated above. This information should indicate what objective(s) and/or activities could be accomplished with additional time and/or funds beyond the proposed period of performance. Where appropriate, competitive proposals may include: Opportunities for beneficiaries to apply their new knowledge and skills in practical efforts; Solicitation of feedback and suggestions from beneficiaries when developing activities in order to strengthen the sustainability of programs and participant ownership of project outcomes; Input from participants on sustainability plans and systematic review of the plans throughout the life of the project, with adjustments made as necessary; Joint identification and definition of key concepts with relevant stakeholders and stakeholder input into project activities; Systematic follow-up with beneficiaries at specific intervals after the completion of activities to track how beneficiaries are retaining new knowledge as well as applying their new skills. Activities that are not typically allowed include, but are not limited to: The provision of humanitarian assistance; English language instruction; Development of high-tech computer or communications software and/or hardware; Purely academic exchanges or fellowships; External exchanges or fellowships lasting longer than six months; Off-shore activities that are not clearly linked to in-country initiatives and impact or are not necessary per security concerns; Theoretical explorations of human rights or democracy issues, including projects aimed primarily at research and evaluation that do not incorporate training or capacity-building for local civil society; Micro-loans or similar small business development initiatives; Initiatives directed towards a diaspora community rather than current residents of targeted countries.

The Media Small Grants Program advances the U.S. Embassy goal of supporting a more inclusive and accountable democracy. It seeks to increase journalistic professionalism, expand the capabilities of independent media, and promoted access to information. The intended result is increased production of balanced, locally relevant, diverse, and high-quality media products. Prior activities through this program have included support for projects that: Produced quality journalism and educated journalists on best practices, including investigative work on key issues. Educated the public on safe social media use for children by partnering with social media influencers and bloggers. Supported the ability of government relations officials to effectively communicate with constituents. Produced journalistic content that highlights womens leadership in the regions. Proposed programs should be innovative and clearly demonstrate how they will complement any ongoing programs and avoid duplicating past efforts. They may include activities that improve upon or expand existing successful projects. Applicants should pay close attention to the PDS project goal and target audiences when developing their proposals.

The U.S. Consulate General in Ciudad Juarez of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for U.S. or foreign organizations or individuals to submit a statement of interest (SOI) to carry out a program (or programs) to investigate the economic impact of transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) involved in migrant smuggling in the state of Chihuahua. Please carefully follow all instructions below. The submission of the SOI is the first step in a two-step process. Applicants must first submit a concise (2-page) statement of interest designed to clearly communicate 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 requiring the 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. Priority Region: State of Chihuahua, Mexico Program Objectives: Objective 1: To conduct a comprehensive research project that would help deepen our understanding of the economic impact of transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) involved in migrant smuggling in the state of Chihuahua, to inform and guide the development of effective policies. By investigating the methods, routes, and economic consequences of TCO activities on both transit communities and migrants, the project aims to provide evidence-based insights that will enhance international security and contribute to more resilient and supportive economic environments in affected regions. The study should identify key TCOs, analyze smuggling methods and routes, assess economic repercussions for transit communities, evaluate socio-economic effects on migrants, and propose evidence-based policy recommendations. Outputs should include: Output 1: a comprehensive data analysis report, a policy brief, and an academic paper. Output 2: Conduct on-the-ground research to identify key TCOs and analyze smuggling methods and routes. Gather and analyze data on economic impacts and socio-economic effects on migrants and transit cities. Output 3: Formulate evidence-based policy recommendations. Budget should account for personnel, travel, indirect costs and a contingency fund. Participants and Audiences: 1- Policy Makers and Government Officials: To inform and guide the development of policies and regulations 2- Law Enforcement Agencies: To enhance understanding of TCO operations and improve strategies. 3- International Organizations: Such as the UNICEF, UNHCR and OIM, to support global efforts in addressing human trafficking, migrant smuggling, and their impact on security and economies. 4- Academics and Researchers: To contribute to the body of knowledge on TCOs and migration, and to encourage further research in related fields. 5- Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Focused on migrant rights, human trafficking, and community development, to aid in advocacy and program development.

This funding opportunity is designed to strengthen the Somali National Army's capabilities through operational mentorship and support, focusing on improving their ability to conduct independent military operations and enhance security in Somalia.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The U.S. Embassy Niamey of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to carry out a program to fortify relations between communities, women civil society leaders, and civilian security forces in Diffa Region. Please follow all instructions below. Priority Region: Diffa Region Program Description and Objectives: In 2021, the Trans-Saharan Counterterrorism Partnership-funded Nallewaro Project created both women-only and mixed-gender civilian-law enforcement networks that successfully integrated women into local conflict management processes. Following the Nallewaro Project closure in 2021, these networks continued to apply rapid-response mediation to intercommunal conflicts that threatened to destabilize violent extremist organization (VEO)-impacted localities in Diffa. As VEO attacks escalate in Diffa Region following the coup detat in July 2023, the Nallewaro women and mixed-gender security networks have continued to facilitate strong collaboration between communities and security forces. The post-coup detat change in regional government leadership, however, has stalled womens integration into government security decision-making structures that would further institutionalize the Nallewaro women and mixed-gender security networks. Prospective projects should respond to the following goal: Women leaders in Diffa Region will increase their participation and institutionalize their leadership in regional and departmental peace and security decision-making by 2026. Prospective projects should reflect a strong strategic vision tailored to new security and political challenges in Diffa Region following the coup detat in July 2023. Prospective projects should build on previous Nallewaro Network activities and work to establish the networks sustainability. Applicants are strongly encouraged against holding new trainings or duplicate activities from previous projects unless there is a newly identified need. Applicants are advised to focus on strategic activities that institutionalize the womens and mixed gender Nallewaro Networks. Possible project activities include: - Rapid assessment of community-civilian security force collaboration and gender inclusion in Diffa Region post-July 2023 - Women-led community security monitoring - Community-civilian security stakeholder dialogues - Public gender inclusion sensitization activities Close collaboration with Nigerien authorities like the Ministry of Interiors Stabilization Unit and the High Authority for the Consolidation of Peace (HACP) as well as other community policing partners in Diffa Region is essential for successful project implementation. The successful applicant will demonstrate a successful track record of gender inclusion in local peacebuilding and will have collaborated previously with national or local Nigerien authorities. Applicants should budget for quarterly meetings of a project advisory group that will ensure coordination with Nigerien authorities and other women, peace, and security implementing partners. Participants and Audiences: The successful applicant will work with the Nallewaro Network in Diffa Region, which has been trained by previous peacebuilding and gender inclusion programs to co-design and implement gender inclusion activities. The successful applicant will build on pre-existing relationships with local and national Nigerien authorities, community leaders, and womens leaders in Diffa Region to manage a broad coalition of partners critical to successful gender inclusion.

This grant provides funding for projects that aim to preserve cultural heritage in Kenya, including historic buildings, archaeological sites, and traditional cultural expressions.

This grant provides funding to non-profit organizations in the U.S. and Ukraine to establish and strengthen partnerships between cities, promoting economic development, innovation, and cultural exchange in support of Ukraine's recovery and democratic growth.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to various organizations working to combat the proliferation of advanced conventional weapons by China and Russia, focusing on enhancing security and defense capabilities in vulnerable nations.

The long-term purpose of the BEST activity is to improve learning outcomes and necessary skillsof students, particularly the most marginalized groups so that they remain in primary schoolsand effectively transition to lower secondary education. The overarching objective of BEST is tointroduce the most cost-effective education solution to improve Khmer literacy and Read-to-Learn abilities among grade 4 students.Specific objectives are:1) To revise core textbook for Khmer grade 4 and develop cost-effective and practicalliteracy packages for grade 4;2) To improve teachers competencies in teaching literacy in target primary schools; and3) To produce and disseminate evidence that supports the Ministry of Education, Youthand Sports efforts to scale-up successful practices.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for local non-government organizations in Algeria to implement projects that foster cultural, educational, and scientific exchanges between the United States and Algeria.

A. PROJECT DESCRIPTION The U.S. Department of State, U.S. Embassy Kinshasa announces an Open Competition for organizations interested in submitting applications for projects that promote accountable, transparent, and democratic governance and promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms for all individuals. In this vein, selected projects will target youth and women interested in becoming political leaders in their communities and country. Projects will focus on education and empowerment, and will develop curricula, that cover civic engagement, peaceful participation in political processes, ethics in politics, community leadership and advocacy. Goals Projects should demonstrate systemic change and be designed to achieve the following objectives: Objective 1: Inspire youth and womens desire to participate in democratic processes by enlisting experienced youth and women in politics to develop a mentorship program. Objective 2: Develop entrepreneurial capacities of youth and women that contribute towards access to educational programs, creating sustainable income-generating activities, and paying for involvement in electoral processes. Objective 3: Inspire youth and womens desire to participate in democratic processes by enlisting experienced youth and women in politics to develop a mentorship program. Objective 4: Develop entrepreneurial capacities of youth and women that contribute towards access to educational programs, creating sustainable income-generating activities, and paying for involvement in electoral processes. Objective 5: Establish centers of learning and capacity-building for open dialogue among youth and women, civil society, governments, and the communities they serve. Objective 6: Empower key reformers and actors to promote access to justice, strengthen checks on executive power, and incorporate citizen-responsive governance to reduce corruption and improve the delivery of public services. Objective 7: Provide technical support and integrate program with or leverage existing programs, local resources, and/or the activities of other donors.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations and educational institutions in developing programs that strengthen ties and mutual understanding between the United States and Venezuela, particularly in higher education partnerships.

This program provides funding for organizations and individuals to create projects that strengthen cultural ties and mutual understanding between the United States and North Macedonia through various initiatives, including exchanges, artistic workshops, and community development.

The Office of Citizen Exchanges of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) announces an open competition for the FY2024 Global Media Makers (GMM) program. U.S. public and private non-profit organizations meeting the provisions described in Internal Revenue Code section 26 USC 501(c)(3) may submit proposals to conduct a professional development program for film and television content creators from participating countries to enhance their skills and to support local creative economies. This program, like other ECA film program models, seeks to elevate influential voices that are building resilient civil societies by using film and television content to address critical local issues including, but not limited to, the climate crisis, democratic governance, freedom of expression, pluralism, tolerance, womens and youth empowerment.The FY 2024 GMM program will connect up to 50 mid-career film and television professionals ("Fellows) with professionals (Mentors) from the U.S. entertainment industry who will facilitate behind-the-scenes access, bolster Fellows technical skills and creative content development, and build the foundations for lasting professional networks. Fellows will travel to the United States for a four-to-six-week residency, which will take place primarily in Los Angeles (L.A.), to work on projects with a team of mentors to receive state-of-the-art-training and industry access to support conceptual development of independent, authentic, and compelling content for distribution in the Fellows home countries. Please see the full announcement for additional information.

This program provides funding for organizations to preserve and protect cultural heritage in Zambia and around the world, supporting projects like restoring historical sites and conserving traditional arts.

A project to encourage the development and dissemination of a global credential and related credentialing or certification program based on international standards for substance use professionals. Drug use disorders extensively harm health, including mental health, safety, economic well-being, fuel organized crime, and negatively impact political, social, and economic stability. Many governments as well as individual drug demand reduction professionals provide services but have little experience and few methods to determine if those programs or their efforts are effective, evidence-based, and meeting international standards or their own program goals. To encourage and document the improvement of the prevention, treatment, and recovery services, the workforce requires training to an agreed international standard and then an agreed global credential to ensure that the substance use disorder workforce is performing to that standard. Project Vision: Drug demand reduction is the field of counternarcotics that recognizes that an epidemic only ends when we reduce the number of new cases. Through a well-trained, credentialed, and enthusiastic professional workforce in the combined fields of prevention, treatment, and recovery support, we will reduce the number of those suffering from substance use disorder globally and provide a social framework that supports recovery and ongoing prevention of substance use disorders. Project Goal(s) and Objectives: Professionals that work in the drug demand reduction field including prevention, treatment, and recovery support services come from a variety of academic and non-academic backgrounds. Given the sensitive personal, political, and cultural nature of substance use disorder, it is critical to ensure that those entrusted with positions in these areas can be readily identified as having the skills, experience, and understandings of the international standards and the implementation of those standards as they work. While some nations have their own processes for testing and certification, most do not. Poor services, especially those that violate human rights, in any country negatively impact the substance use disorder field. This negative impact has far-reaching consequences globally based on historical misunderstandings of the nature of substance use disorder. For these reasons, we seek to foster a climate where training and expertise are recognized and required for participation as a professional in the practice of prevention, treatment, and recovery support services. Credentialing should also be encouraged as many working in this field work as volunteers or are working in related fields such as education or youth services. The overall goal of this project is to promote and develop the framework for the credentialing or certification of professionals in this field, in order to improve overall care of persons with substance use disorders, similar to other medical professionals. Through the development of an international credential secured through standardized examination, the project will also work to decrease the stigma associated with work 5 | Page related to substance use disorders. All competencies and testing should promote and encompass those international standards developed under the auspices of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), which have been accepted globally.