Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) 2026: Exchange Alumni Advancing Freedom250
This grant provides funding for alumni of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs to implement projects that promote freedom, civic engagement, and collaboration in their communities, particularly in Niger.
The Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) 2026: Exchange Alumni Advancing Freedom250 is a grant initiative under the auspices of the U.S. Department of State, specifically managed by the U.S. Mission to Niger. AEIF is a flagship program of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), designed to engage alumni of U.S. government-funded exchange programs in fostering initiatives that align with U.S. foreign policy goals while addressing local or regional issues in their communities. Since its launch in 2011, the program has supported nearly 500 alumni-led projects globally, reinforcing the long-term value of international exchange and collaboration. In 2026, AEIF projects will contribute to the celebration of Freedom250, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States. The U.S. Embassy in Niamey will oversee the implementation of an Alumni Summit that embodies the themes of freedom, civic engagement, and collaborative action. This summit aims to unite exchange alumni from various professional sectors and programs to promote U.S. values such as freedom of expression, civic participation, and democratic development. While centered in Niger, the summit is designed to welcome cross-border collaboration, and eligible projects may extend to bilateral or regional initiatives. Participation is limited to alumni of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs, with specific eligibility criteria. The primary applicant and project leader must be non-U.S. citizen exchange alumni. U.S. citizen alumni may join the team but cannot serve in leadership roles. Teams must include at least two eligible alumni, with one residing in Niger. Only alumni or alumni associations may submit applications, though these teams may partner with nonprofit organizations, NGOs, think tanks, or academic institutions. Proposals must adhere to AEIF 2026 guidelines and be submitted using official templates through the U.S. Embassy. Direct submissions from alumni will not be accepted. Funding for single-country initiatives such as this one is capped at $40,000, with a minimum floor of $5,000. A total program funding pool of $40,000 is anticipated, with up to five awards to be made. The funding is provided through Cooperative Agreements under the Fulbright-Hays appropriation (Assistance Listing 19.022). No cost sharing or matching is required. Proposals are expected to demonstrate a structured agenda, measurable outcomes, and sustainability through follow-on initiatives such as working groups or small grants. The submission deadline for complete proposal packages is April 30, 2026. Proposals must be emailed in accordance with instructions provided by the U.S. Embassy in Niamey. Selected grantees will be notified by June 15, 2026, with funded projects expected to commence by July 31, 2026. The timeline reflects the U.S. government’s strategic intent to support alumni-led engagement through a structured and timely process. This opportunity is forecasted and not yet accepting applications as of the analysis date. All activities are expected to take place outside the United States and its territories. Regional engagement is encouraged but not required. The Embassy will provide strategic oversight, ensuring alignment with Department of State priorities. Contact for inquiries is the Public Diplomacy Section at the U.S. Mission in Niger, available via telephone at +227 20723141.
Award Range
$5,000 - $40,000
Total Program Funding
$40,000
Number of Awards
5
Matching Requirement
No
Additional Details
Single-country awards up to $40,000. Total pool $40,000.
Eligible Applicants
Additional Requirements
Eligible applicants are individual U.S. citizen alumni may participate, but at least two non-U.S. citizen exchange alumni must lead the project; non-U.S. citizen alumni of U.S. government-funded or sponsored exchange programs and alumni associations of U.S. government exchange programs. Eligibility Requirements: The primary applicant and project lead must be a non-U.S. citizen exchange alumnus/alumna of a U.S. government-funded or sponsored exchange program (https://j1visa.state.gov). Project teams must include at least two (2) eligible exchange alumni. Teams may include alumni from different exchange programs and countries but must include at least one alumnus/alumna based in Niger. U.S. citizen alumni may not serve as primary applicants or project leads, but may participate as team members. Applications may be submitted only by eligible exchange alumni or alumni associations. No other organizations are eligible to apply directly. Alumni teams may partner with non-profit organizations, NGOs, think tanks, or academic institutions to support project implementation. Awards may be issued to individual alumni, alumni associations, or eligible partner organizations, as appropriate.Eligible applicants must be non-U.S. citizen alumni of U.S. government-funded exchange programs. Teams must include two eligible alumni, including one in Niger. Only individual alumni or alumni associations may submit applications. Partners may support implementation but cannot apply directly. 227 20723141
Geographic Eligibility
All
Application Opens
Not specified
Application Closes
Not specified
Grantor
U.S. Department of State (U.S. Mission to Niger)
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