The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs Office of Assistance Coordination (NEA/AC) has issued a *Request for Statements of Interest* (RSOI) to fund projects enhancing information security and responsible technology practices in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. This solicitation aims to strengthen resilience in information ecosystems, encourage responsible technology and cyberspace practices, and improve security at critical points of entry. The available funding totals $3.7 million, with awards ranging from $100,000 to $1.5 million per project, potentially distributed across four to seven awards. Project durations can range from one to three years, with eligible entities invited to submit a brief Statement of Interest (SOI) by November 22, 2024.
Applicants are encouraged to align their proposals with one or more specific Lines of Effort (LOEs): enhancing information integrity and countering disinformation; promoting responsible technology practices and secure digital infrastructure; supporting cyberspace security in compliance with international standards; and strengthening security at ports and other critical entry points. Proposals should detail how projects will meet these objectives, including a theory of change and measurable outcomes. Priority is given to proposals targeting region-wide impacts or multiple countries within the MENA region, such as Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia, among others.
To be eligible, applicants must be legally registered entities, including U.S.-based or foreign nonprofit and for-profit organizations, educational institutions, and community or faith-based organizations. Collaborative proposals with civil society and local stakeholders are encouraged, as is a focus on expanding opportunities for marginalized populations, including women and underrepresented communities. NEA/AC also advises applicants to consider long-term sustainability and to conduct gender analysis for projects aimed at enhancing the participation of women in technology and cybersecurity fields.
The SOI submission requires concise descriptions of project objectives, outcomes, relevant indicators, and implementation timelines. Applicants must also provide organizational background and a brief problem statement. Eligible SOIs will advance to a full proposal stage based on alignment with the LOEs, project planning rigor, and the applicant’s demonstrated capacity.
Submissions must be emailed to NEA-Grants@state.gov by the stated deadline. NEA/AC anticipates notifying successful applicants within eight months, with final award conditions and reporting requirements to be defined upon selection.
