Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund 2026

The Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) is a program managed by the Public Diplomacy Section of the U.S. Department of State, specifically through the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa. This initiative was launched to support alumni of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs, empowering them to implement innovative projects that promote U.S. policy priorities and address shared community challenges. The 2026 iteration of the AEIF emphasizes the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States' founding (Freedom 250), and encourages alumni to partner with the South Africa-U.S. Alumni Connect team to develop activities that support this milestone while enhancing local and international collaboration. Eligible applicants include individuals who are alumni of U.S. government-funded exchange programs, and each application must involve at least two alumni. While U.S. citizen alumni may participate as team members, they are not permitted to serve as team leads unless working alongside two non-U.S. citizen alumni. Alumni associations with designated team leads may also apply. The fund encourages a collaborative, network-based approach, requiring project teams to engage with alumni across different programs and prioritize initiatives that support policy objectives such as community development, freedom of speech, and mutual prosperity. Additionally, preference will be given to proposals that demonstrate sustainability and strong community partnerships. The funding range for each proposed project is between $5,000 and $35,000, with the U.S. Department of State indicating a maximum of three awards. While the total available funding is yet to be determined, projects must be completed within a 12-month performance period. Awards may be issued as either grants or fixed amount awards (FAA), and the Department of State may approve continuation grants on a non-competitive basis, subject to funding availability and program performance. The AEIF funding cannot be used for certain categories, such as construction, political activities, religious activities, direct social services, entertainment, or staff salaries. The application process requires the submission of several documents: a completed AEIF 2026 Proposal Form and Budget Form (both must remain in editable formats, not PDF), and a Google Form submission. Optional supporting materials such as workshop agendas or prior project documentation are encouraged to strengthen the application. Additionally, a Budget Justification Narrative is required, outlining all expected costs and justifying their necessity. Acceptable budget items include venue rentals, essential travel, reasonable honoraria, training materials, and virtual engagement tools. Applicants must adhere to federal audit and registration requirements, including having a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and active registration in SAM.gov, except in cases where exemptions are approved. Evaluation criteria include alignment with U.S. policy priorities, impact on the local community, degree of alumni involvement, and partnerships with local organizations. The proposal must contain a robust monitoring and evaluation plan, a communications strategy, and a clear and reasonable budget. The application must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. SAST on Friday, May 8, 2026, via both Google Form and email to [email protected]. Questions regarding the NOFO must be submitted by May 1, 2026, to the same email address. Projects selected for funding will be notified within approximately 120 days after the deadline. Funding will begin within 45 days of notification. Award recipients must comply with post-award requirements including reporting obligations, compliance with branding guidelines (including mandatory use of Freedom 250 logos), and U.S. anti-discrimination and anti-trafficking laws. The Department of State may terminate awards if they no longer meet program objectives or priorities. This funding opportunity supports the continued engagement of exchange program alumni as community leaders and policy influencers, reinforcing the long-term impact of public diplomacy investments.

Ensure clear alignment with Freedom 250 themes; Include two alumni minimum; Detail M&E plan and budget justification.