The Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) 2025, administered by the U.S. Embassy Kingston's Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) and the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs' Office of Alumni Affairs (ECA/P/A), is designed to support U.S. government-sponsored exchange program alumni. This annual funding opportunity provides grants to implement projects that strengthen U.S. foreign policy objectives, foster alumni collaboration, and enhance community development in Jamaica. The program aims to amplify the return on investment in U.S.-sponsored exchange programs by empowering alumni to address mutual challenges and foster U.S.-Jamaica bilateral goals.
Eligible applicants include alumni of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs, alumni associations in countries with U.S. representation, and public diplomacy sections partnering with alumni to support mission objectives. Projects must be led by a non-U.S. citizen exchange alumni, involve a minimum of two alumni or an alumni association, and take place outside the United States. Proposals must align with one or more priority areas, which include building networks among exchange alumni to increase regional or global cooperation, fostering activities that strengthen U.S.-Jamaica ties, and empowering alumni to implement community development projects that benefit their local communities.
The award amounts range from a minimum of $5,000 to a maximum of $35,000. While the total program funding has not been specified, successful proposals will demonstrate a clear connection to advancing U.S. foreign policy goals, enhancing bilateral cooperation, and creating a meaningful impact within their communities. Funded projects are expected to foster leadership, collaboration, and innovation among alumni while addressing community challenges or regional priorities.
Proposals must be submitted by February 14, 2025. Applicants are advised to carefully follow all submission instructions outlined in the call for proposals to ensure their applications are complete and compliant. Selected projects will involve collaboration with U.S. Embassy Kingston during implementation to ensure alignment with program goals and mission priorities.
The U.S. Department of State has supported over 500 alumni-driven projects since 2011 through AEIF, underscoring the program's success in leveraging the skills and expertise of exchange alumni to promote positive change worldwide. For further assistance or inquiries, applicants can contact the U.S. Embassy Kingston via the provided email address, **kingstonalumni@state.gov**.
