The Cultural Property Agreement Implementation Grants (CPAIG) Program, administered by the U.S. Embassy Tunis under the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, is a federally funded initiative designed to support the implementation of cultural property agreements and emergency import restrictions established between the United States and partner nations. These agreements play a critical role in protecting cultural heritage, curbing the illicit trade of cultural artifacts, and promoting lawful, cooperative cultural exchange. In Tunisia, this funding opportunity specifically supports projects aligned with the U.S.-Tunisia cultural property agreement, reinforcing diplomatic relations, cultural preservation, and the mutual benefits of heritage stewardship.
The CPAIG program seeks to fund projects that directly support the obligations of cultural property agreements or related emergency import restrictions. Eligible activities include training for law enforcement and cultural stewards, development and maintenance of digital inventories, improving site security for museums and archaeological sites, and community-focused public education campaigns aimed at preventing looting and trafficking. Projects may incorporate advanced technologies, such as virtual reality or 3D modeling, to enhance public engagement and awareness.
Funded projects must follow international standards for cultural heritage protection and align with U.S. foreign policy goals. While the grant supports a broad array of project types, it does not fund privately owned properties, natural heritage unrelated to culture, mandated educational curricula, or new construction. Grants must fall within the funding range of $25,000 to $150,000, with implementation periods ranging from one to five years.
Eligible applicants include U.S. and Tunisian institutions of higher education, Tunisian non-governmental and public entities, public international organizations, governmental institutions, and U.S. nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status. Applicants must demonstrate organizational capacity, a strong track record in project execution, and must be registered in the U.S. government’s System for Award Management (SAM) to receive funds. Individuals, commercial entities, and non-compliant past grantees are not eligible.
The application process involves two rounds. For the 2026 cycle, concept notes must be submitted by Sunday, February 8, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Tunis time. Applicants whose concept notes are accepted in Round 1 will be invited to submit full proposals in Round 2, contingent upon the availability of Fiscal Year 2026 funds. Concept notes must include project basics, a summary of activities and outcomes, estimated costs, and, if applicable, supporting visual documentation. Required templates are available on the U.S. Embassy Tunis website.
For further information or assistance, applicants may contact the Public Diplomacy team at the U.S. Embassy Tunis via email at [email protected]. This funding opportunity serves as a strategic investment in the protection of cultural heritage and the enhancement of bilateral cooperation between Tunisia and the United States.
