Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund

The Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF), facilitated by the Public Diplomacy Section at the U.S. Embassy in Kampala, Uganda, represents an opportunity for alumni of U.S. government-funded and sponsored exchange programs to contribute meaningfully to shared policy objectives and democratic values. AEIF 2026 supports collaborative projects led by these exchange alumni that enhance U.S.-Uganda diplomatic ties, strengthen regional and global networks, and promote core U.S. policy values. The program is funded by the U.S. Department of State through the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, under Assistance Listing Number 19.022. This annual funding opportunity aims to deepen the long-term impact of U.S. exchange programs by supporting alumni-led initiatives within Uganda and beyond. AEIF 2026 seeks proposals that directly support Freedom 250, a national campaign commemorating the 250th anniversary of American independence, as well as projects aligning with contemporary U.S. foreign policy goals. Proposals must involve at least two U.S. exchange alumni or an alumni association, and activities must occur outside the United States and its territories. The fund supports projects that reinforce democratic values, foster alumni collaboration, and contribute to areas such as regional security, economic growth, innovation, global partnerships, and U.S.-Uganda relations. Project themes must align with one or more stated objectives including promoting American excellence, regional safety, prosperity, innovation, global collaboration, or diplomatic engagement. Eligible applicants include nonprofit alumni organizations and individuals who have participated in qualifying U.S. exchange programs. For-profit entities are not eligible. While cost sharing or matching is encouraged, it is not required. Applicants may only submit one proposal; submitting more than one will render all applications from that organization ineligible. All applicants must submit proposals by April 20, 2026, at 5:00 PM East Africa Time. The anticipated start date for awarded projects is May 1, 2026, and performance periods must not exceed 12 months. Funding is provided through cooperative agreements, which include substantial involvement from the Embassy in project implementation. Awards will range from a minimum of $5,000 to a maximum of $35,000, with a total of approximately $100,000 in funding available for this cycle. An estimated three projects will be funded, contingent on availability of funds. Proposals will be evaluated based on several weighted criteria: quality and feasibility (30 points), organizational capacity and prior performance (25), ability to meet objectives (20), budget (10), monitoring and evaluation (10), and sustainability (5). A thorough Monitoring and Evaluation Performance Monitoring Plan is required, including a narrative, datasheet, and theory of change diagram. To apply, applicants must submit a complete package including mandatory forms (SF-424 series), a detailed proposal, a line-item budget with justification, resumes for key personnel, letters of support, and proof of nonprofit status and registration. All documentation must be in English and use U.S. dollars. Submissions may be emailed to [email protected] or submitted via Grants.gov. Incomplete applications or those not meeting eligibility criteria will not be reviewed. Recipients will receive formal notification within 120 days after the application deadline. Reporting requirements include quarterly program and financial reports, and a final report within 120 days of project completion. Payment requests must be submitted via form SF-270. The program includes strict compliance with federal anti-discrimination laws, trafficking regulations, and other U.S. government requirements. Projects involving construction, partisan political activity, or direct social services are not eligible for funding. The NOFO emphasizes U.S. branding and reporting standards, with clear requirements for all award recipients.

Emphasize alignment with U.S. policy goals and Freedom 250; submit a strong M&E plan with Theory of Change and PMP; show project sustainability after grant ends.