The Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) 2025, administered by the U.S. Embassy Nairobi Public Diplomacy Section, is accepting applications for projects that preserve cultural heritage in Kenya. The program aims to support the preservation of historic buildings, archaeological sites, museum collections, and forms of traditional cultural expression, such as indigenous languages and crafts. The AFCP provides funding ranging from twenty-five thousand dollars to five hundred thousand dollars for projects lasting between twelve to sixty months. The application process consists of two rounds: a concept note in the first round and a full project proposal for selected applicants in the second round.
Eligible applicants include foreign institutions of higher education, foreign-based non-governmental organizations, public international organizations, governmental institutions, and U.S.-based non-profit organizations with 501(c)(3) status. Applicants must be registered with SAM.gov and have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). There is no requirement for cost sharing; however, if applicants offer cost sharing, they must track and report it.
The first-round concept note must include basic project information such as the implementer’s name, project title, location, anticipated length, and cost estimate. It must also provide a project summary that outlines the proposed activities, deliverables, and outcomes. Five high-quality digital images or audiovisual files showing the current condition of the site or object must also be included to illustrate the project’s urgency. The deadline for the concept note submission is January 15, 2025, and materials must be submitted electronically to nairobigrants@state.gov.
If invited to the second round, applicants will submit a detailed proposal that includes a project description, key personnel information, a maintenance plan, and public outreach strategies. Additionally, applicants must provide a detailed budget with a narrative explaining cost estimates and expected outcomes. Supporting materials such as resumes, letters of support, permissions, and visual documentation must also be included.
Projects are evaluated based on their feasibility, importance of the cultural heritage, long-term maintenance plans, public outreach strategies, and budget clarity. Proposals will undergo merit and risk reviews by the U.S. Embassy and Washington-based committees. Successful applicants will be notified and issued awards, which may be grants or cooperative agreements depending on the level of U.S. government involvement. Recipients must adhere to federal reporting requirements and submit regular financial and performance reports to monitor progress and outcomes.
