Promoting U.S. Space Leadership and International Cooperation

The U.S. Embassy Seoul, Public Diplomacy Section of the U.S. Department of State is announcing the funding opportunity “Promoting U.S. Space Leadership and International Cooperation” under opportunity number PD-SEOUL-FY25-05. This initiative aims to strengthen bilateral dialogue between the United States and the Republic of Korea (ROK) on emerging space-related challenges, foster understanding of U.S. national space policies, and encourage the use of U.S. space capabilities, systems, and services. It seeks to convene Korean and American experts across legal, administrative, technological, and policy sectors to develop policy recommendations that will address gaps in international space law and futureproof bilateral cooperation. The program is funded through FY25 Smith Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds with a total available funding of $100,000, awarded as a cooperative agreement. Only one award is anticipated, and the performance period will be 12 months starting in October 2025. The U.S. Embassy will have substantial involvement in program design and execution, including reviewing program structure, recommending U.S. participants, and approving participant selection. Proposed activities include 1–2 day tabletop exercises analyzing potential space scenarios, closed-door sessions to facilitate candid dialogue, and a concluding open session for the public and media to share outcomes. Eligibility is limited to Republic of Korea-based organizations, including not-for-profit organizations such as think tanks and NGOs, public and private educational institutions, public international organizations, and governmental institutions. Applicants must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and an active SAM.gov registration. Cost sharing is not required but may be offered voluntarily. Individuals are not eligible to apply. Proposals must include an American element and show prior experience running similar programs in both the U.S. and ROK. Applications must be submitted in English, with budgets in U.S. dollars, using required forms SF-424, SF-424A, and, if applicable, SF-424B. Required proposal elements include an executive summary, organizational introduction, problem statement, goals and objectives, activity descriptions, methods, timeline, key personnel, partner organizations, monitoring and evaluation plan, and sustainability strategy. A budget justification narrative and attachments such as resumes, letters of support, and NICRA documentation (if applicable) must be included. Proposals must be emailed to SeoulPDGrants@state.gov by September 2, 2025, 11:59 p.m. (GMT+9). Applications will be evaluated based on quality and feasibility, organizational capacity, ability to achieve objectives, budget reasonableness, monitoring and evaluation plans, and sustainability. A review committee will assess all eligible proposals, and risk factors such as financial stability and past performance will be considered before awarding. Unsuccessful applicants will be notified by September 2025. Award recipients will be required to submit regular financial and program reports and comply with all relevant federal regulations and Department of State terms and conditions. Funds cannot be used for alcoholic beverages or for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).