Connecting Moroccan Youth with U.S. Space Science and Technology

The U.S. Embassy in Morocco, through the Department of State, has announced a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the Morocco Space Programming initiative. This funding opportunity, listed under number OFOP0002098, aims to support programs that engage Moroccan youth through innovative, space-themed educational activities highlighting U.S. leadership in space exploration and STEM education. The funding is drawn from the FY25 Smith-Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds and will be distributed via a cooperative agreement. Applicants can propose projects that last between 9 to 12 months, with an anticipated start date of October 1, 2025. Only one award is expected to be made, ranging from $30,000 to $70,000, with the possibility of future non-competitive continuation depending on funding availability and program success. The program's core objective is to inspire Moroccan youth aged 15 to 18 by showcasing American scientific achievement and fostering skills in leadership, teamwork, and innovation. Activities can include hands-on workshops, educational training, immersive learning sessions, and competitions that integrate U.S. space models and teaching frameworks. Importantly, proposals are encouraged to incorporate bilateral collaboration between U.S. and Moroccan institutions, such as joint projects, virtual exchanges, and peer interactions. Each funded project should engage at least 80 youth participants over the grant period and demonstrate measurable learning outcomes through pre- and post-program evaluations. Eligible applicants include U.S. and Moroccan not-for-profit organizations, including NGOs, think tanks, civil society organizations, and educational institutions. All applicants must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and an active registration in SAM.gov. Organizations not registered must initiate the process promptly, as it can take up to 8 weeks. Exceptions to this requirement may be granted on a case-by-case basis, but must be requested at least two weeks before the application deadline of August 4, 2025, 23:59 GMT+1. Applicants must submit a detailed proposal package in English via email to Rabatgrants@state.gov. Required documents include SF-424 and SF-424A forms, a project narrative using a specific template, a detailed program plan, a budget in USD, resumes for key personnel, and final registration papers for Moroccan organizations. Proposals should clearly define objectives, program design, methods, timelines, partner roles, evaluation mechanisms, and sustainability plans. Applications should demonstrate organizational capacity in youth STEM education, especially in space science and technology. Evaluation criteria will consider the program’s feasibility, organizational capacity, use of American content and trainers, budget justification, monitoring and evaluation plan, and sustainability. U.S. Embassy staff will be substantially involved in implementation, including approval of promotional content, participant selection, and identification of potential U.S. speakers or alumni. Programs must also comply with federal anti-discrimination laws and any foreign funding disclosure requirements if applicable. This grant provides an opportunity to foster long-term relationships between Moroccan youth and U.S. STEM networks, contributing to strategic public diplomacy objectives. All inquiries must be directed to Rabatgrants@state.gov. Awards will be administered and signed by a Grants Officer, and payments will be processed through SF-270 forms. Applicants not selected will be notified via email. All proposals are subject to availability of funding and the U.S. government reserves the right to reject any or all applications received.

Ensure documents are in English, budgets are in USD, and templates are used as directed. Submit via email. Proposal should clearly show how U.S. models will be incorporated and how impact will be measured.