Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund Notice of Funding Opportunity (Latvia)

The Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) Notice of Funding Opportunity for Latvia is administered by the U.S. Department of State through the U.S. Mission to Latvia. This grant initiative is part of the broader U.S. foreign policy mission to promote shared interests and advance policy objectives by empowering alumni of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs. As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, this funding opportunity also serves to highlight and celebrate the core democratic values that have shaped the nation, while strengthening the U.S.–Latvia relationship through community-centered projects led by alumni. The AEIF program aims to maximize the impact of past U.S. government investments in cultural and educational exchanges by enabling alumni to design and implement community projects that reinforce democratic principles, promote economic growth and entrepreneurship, enhance security cooperation, and support fair and reciprocal trade. In 2026, special emphasis is placed on proposals that commemorate America250, honoring the United States’ founding ideals while fostering collaboration and mutual benefit between the U.S. and Latvian communities. Eligible applicants must be non-U.S. citizen alumni of U.S. government-funded or sponsored exchange programs. Each project team must include at least two such alumni, and while U.S. citizen alumni cannot serve as lead applicants, they may participate as team members. Applicants may apply as individuals or represent non-governmental organizations or alumni associations. Academic institutions and for-profit entities are ineligible to apply in their own names, although they may partner in implementing project activities. Importantly, all proposed activities must occur outside the United States and its territories, with priority given to initiatives based in Latvia. Funding will be awarded in the form of grants or fixed amount awards ranging between $5,000 and $35,000. While cost sharing is not required, applicants are encouraged to include in-kind or financial contributions, such as donated venues or volunteer labor. The program's allowable expenses include travel for project implementation, speaker fees, reasonable costs for virtual events, venue rentals, and communications materials. However, the program does not support staff salaries, large durable equipment, religious or partisan political activities, or projects that primarily serve U.S. audiences or take place within U.S. borders. Applications must be submitted using the official AEIF 2026 application and budget forms, which are available on the U.S. Embassy Riga website. Required components include a detailed project proposal with goals, activities, personnel, and a monitoring plan, as well as a budget justification. Optional but recommended materials include letters of support and sample project content. Completed applications are due by March 1, 2026. Award decisions will be made by June 30, 2026, and selected projects may begin as early as September 15, 2026. All activities must be completed by September 30, 2027. Applicants are encouraged to consult with Embassy representatives to refine their proposals. While a Unique Entity ID (UEI) and registration in SAM.gov are not required for individuals, partner organizations must be registered. This opportunity is tailored to support grassroots, alumni-led initiatives that reflect the enduring ties between the United States and Latvia, and embody the values of democratic governance, freedom of expression, and international cooperation.

Ensure proposals emphasize America250, align with U.S. policy goals, and include Latvian implementation. Avoid ineligible costs.