2026 Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF 2026)

The U.S. Department of State, through the U.S. Mission to Uzbekistan, is offering funding under the Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF). This initiative is designed to support alumni of U.S. government-funded exchange programs in developing and implementing projects that strengthen economic and cultural ties between the United States and Uzbekistan. The program aligns with broader U.S. foreign policy objectives, particularly those that emphasize innovation, entrepreneurship, and international collaboration. By leveraging the skills and networks of exchange alumni, the fund aims to promote the United States as a global leader in technological advancement and economic opportunity. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to encourage alumni-led initiatives that enhance bilateral economic engagement. Projects are expected to demonstrate tangible outcomes that contribute to increased business connections, foreign investment, or tourism between the two countries. Additionally, all proposals must incorporate themes related to Freedom 250, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States, thereby integrating cultural diplomacy with economic objectives. Priority thematic areas include Business, Energy and Trade; STEM, Artificial Intelligence and Innovation; and Education, Culture, Sports and Tourism. Funding is structured to support a limited number of projects, with an anticipated two awards issued under this opportunity. Individual project budgets must fall within a defined range, ensuring both feasibility and impact. Allowable activities include, but are not limited to, organizing STEM workshops, hosting innovation-focused hackathons, coordinating cultural festivals, and promoting major events hosted in the United States. These activities must clearly demonstrate how they will attract investment or tourism while showcasing the benefits of collaboration with U.S. institutions and businesses. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement associated with this opportunity. Eligibility is restricted to individuals who are alumni of U.S. government exchange programs. Applicants must form teams consisting of at least two eligible alumni, reinforcing the program’s emphasis on collaboration and collective impact. While the primary applicant category is individuals, the expectation is that teams will leverage their combined expertise and networks to execute projects effectively. The program does not specify additional institutional eligibility requirements, but participation is inherently limited to those with prior involvement in qualifying exchange programs. The application process is conducted through official U.S. Department of State channels, with applicants required to submit proposals by the stated deadline. While detailed application components are not explicitly outlined in the summary, applicants can expect to provide a project narrative, implementation plan, and budget justification consistent with standard federal grant practices. Interested applicants who encounter technical difficulties are directed to contact the program via the provided email address. No pre-application requirement such as a letter of intent is specified. The application window opened on April 7, 2026, and closes on May 6, 2026. Given the absence of rolling submissions or recurring cycles, this represents a single-cycle funding opportunity for the 2026 program year. Awards are expected to be made following a review process conducted by the U.S. Mission to Uzbekistan, though specific notification timelines are not provided. The performance period for funded projects is not explicitly stated but is expected to align with standard programmatic timelines for similar initiatives.

Align projects with priority themes and clearly demonstrate measurable economic impact and U.S. partnership benefits