The U.S. Mission to Kazakhstan’s Public Diplomacy Section (PDS), part of the Department of State, has announced a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) titled “Creating Opportunities through Market Development in Sports and Digital Skills.” This funding opportunity seeks to strengthen U.S.-Kazakhstan ties through initiatives in the digital technology and sports sectors, with an emphasis on American values, bilateral cooperation, and shared growth. PDS Kazakhstan is encouraging proposals that promote U.S. expertise and involve substantial U.S. elements such as American experts, institutions, or educational resources. These programs aim to build sustainable partnerships and mutual understanding between the peoples of Kazakhstan and the United States.
This NOFO invites nonprofit U.S. and Kazakhstan-based organizations, educational institutions, and individuals to submit proposals. For-profit entities are not eligible. Applicants must address one of two core goals: deepening U.S.-Kazakhstan ties through sports, or equipping young professionals with in-demand technical skills, especially outside Kazakhstan's largest cities. Proposals must incorporate a significant U.S. component and align with the strategic objectives of fostering leadership, collaboration, and technical advancement in both nations.
Funding awards will range from $10,000 to $40,000, with an expected performance period of 9 to 12 months and a tentative start date of October 1, 2025. The PDS anticipates issuing 4 to 8 awards. Funding is contingent upon availability and final grant agreements will be governed by U.S. Department of State terms. Applicants can submit via Grants.gov or email. All proposals must be submitted in English with detailed narratives, budgets, and monitoring and evaluation plans. Required forms include the SF-424, SF-424A, and SF-424B (where applicable), along with resumes, letters of support, and evidence of nonprofit status or registration.
Key evaluation criteria include the feasibility and originality of the program idea, organizational capacity and past performance, the ability to achieve proposed objectives, budget justification, sustainability, and a clear monitoring and evaluation framework. All costs must be reasonable, allowable, and allocable as per federal guidelines. While cost-sharing is not required, detailed financial management practices will be scrutinized, particularly for high-risk recipients who may face additional reporting and monitoring requirements.
Proposals must be received by July 17, 2025, 11:59 PM GMT+5. Submission details, including contact information for support (kzpdsgrantproposal@state.gov), are provided, and technical assistance is available via Grants.gov. No pre-award costs are allowed. Construction, partisan activities, direct social services, lobbying, or commercial projects are ineligible for funding. The NOFO also emphasizes compliance with federal anti-discrimination laws, foreign funding disclosure requirements, and appropriate handling of intellectual property.
Use U.S. elements and demonstrate sustainability and measurable outcomes. Follow format and include all attachments to avoid ineligibility.
