U.S. Mission to Libya Public Diplomacy Small Grants Program Annual Program Statement (APS)

The U.S. Department of State’s Libya External Office (LEO), operating from Tunis, has announced the 2025 Annual Program Statement (APS) for the U.S. Mission to Libya Public Diplomacy Small Grants Program. This funding opportunity is part of the department’s ongoing Public Diplomacy Program and is aimed at advancing mutual interests between the United States and Libya. The APS is subject to funding availability under FY25 Smith Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds and anticipates a program start date of October 1, 2025. The total amount available for distribution is yet to be determined, but awards are expected to range from $25,000 to $100,000 each, with up to five awards granted. The funding instrument may take the form of a grant, fixed amount award, or cooperative agreement, depending on the level of involvement required from the U.S. government. The main goals of the program include promoting economic opportunity and U.S. collaboration, showcasing the U.S.-Libyan partnership and shared values, and supporting Libya’s unity, stability, and security. Projects involving alumni of U.S. Government exchange programs are particularly encouraged. Eligible programs may include initiatives in economic and entrepreneurship development, cultural or sports diplomacy, and historical preservation. However, the grant does not fund partisan political activities, construction, religious activities, lobbying, scientific research, or programs intended primarily for organizational growth. Entities eligible to apply include U.S. and foreign not-for-profit organizations, educational institutions, individuals, and public international or governmental institutions, both Libyan and non-Libyan. Organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and active SAM.gov registration. Individuals do not require a UEI or SAM registration. Importantly, only one application per organization is permitted; multiple submissions from the same entity will render all proposals ineligible. Applications must be submitted via email to LibyaUSAExchanges@state.gov and include required federal forms (SF-424, SF-424A, and, if applicable, SF-424B), a proposal that addresses the funding goals, and a detailed budget justification. Optional supporting documents like CVs, letters of support, and official permission letters may also be included. The proposal should comprehensively explain the applicant’s capability, program design, timeline, personnel, and sustainability strategy. Applications are evaluated based on criteria such as quality and feasibility (30 points), organizational capacity (20 points), planning and objectives (15 points), budget detail (10 points), monitoring and evaluation (15 points), and sustainability (10 points). Award notices will be issued via email and grants will be managed by a designated Grants Officer. All awarded programs must comply with various federal regulations, including anti-discrimination laws and financial transparency requirements. Grantees will be required to report on financial and programmatic progress regularly and must align with the Foreign Assistance Data Review (FADR) requirements. Applications will be considered up to 60 days from the date of the opportunity’s posting. Submission beyond this period will not be accepted. Questions about the application process can be directed to LibyaUSAExchanges@state.gov.

Ensure compliance with format and documentation standards. Include only one proposal per organization. Cost-sharing is encouraged. Focus on sustainability and detailed evaluation plans.