U.S. Mission to Libya Public Diplomacy Small Grants Program Annual Program Statement (APS)

The U.S. Department of State, through the U.S. Mission to Libya operating from the Libya External Office in Tunis, offers funding under its Public Diplomacy Small Grants Program. This Annual Program Statement outlines funding priorities designed to strengthen ties between the United States and Libya while advancing shared goals of stability, economic development, and mutual understanding. The program is funded through FY25 Smith Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds and supports initiatives that enhance cooperation and promote positive engagement with Libyan audiences. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to support projects that advance three key strategic objectives: promoting economic opportunity and collaboration with the United States, showcasing U.S.-Libyan partnerships and shared values, and supporting Libya’s unity, stability, and security. Projects are expected to engage Libyan audiences directly, particularly students and professionals working in relevant sectors. Activities may include cultural programming, entrepreneurship initiatives, English language programming, STEM collaboration, and efforts that highlight American expertise and partnership opportunities. Funding is available for projects with a performance period of up to 12 months. Awards are anticipated to range from 50000 to 100000 dollars, with approximately five awards expected, depending on available funding. The total program funding has not been specified and remains contingent upon funding availability. Projects may be funded through grants, fixed amount awards, or cooperative agreements, with some mechanisms involving substantial participation from Department of State personnel in implementation. Cost sharing is encouraged but not required. Eligible applicants include a broad range of entities such as U.S. and foreign nonprofit organizations, educational institutions (both public and private), individuals, and governmental or international organizations. Applicants must submit only one proposal per organization, and organizations are required to obtain a Unique Entity Identifier and maintain active registration in SAM.gov. Individuals are exempt from these registration requirements. The program explicitly excludes certain activities such as partisan political efforts, charitable donations, construction projects, religious programming, lobbying, and scientific research. The application process requires submission of several mandatory forms, including SF-424, SF-424A, and SF-424B where applicable, along with a detailed proposal narrative. The proposal must include elements such as a problem statement, goals and objectives, project activities, implementation plan, timeline, monitoring and evaluation framework, and sustainability plan. Additional required materials include a budget justification narrative, resumes of key personnel, and letters of support from partners. All applications must be submitted via email to the designated program inbox. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis within a defined window, specifically up to 60 days following the posting of the funding announcement. The anticipated program start date is October 1, 2026. Proposals are evaluated based on criteria including program quality, organizational capacity, feasibility, budget justification, monitoring and evaluation, and sustainability. Selected applicants will be notified by email, and funding decisions are contingent upon availability of funds and successful review outcomes. The program includes ongoing oversight and reporting requirements, including financial and programmatic reporting as well as compliance with federal regulations. Award recipients must adhere to federal policies, including anti-discrimination requirements and financial accountability standards. For questions regarding the application process, applicants may contact the program via [email protected]. This funding opportunity is issued as an Annual Program Statement and may support continuation funding based on performance and availability of funds.

Ensure strong monitoring and evaluation framework and clear measurable objectives; align proposal tightly with stated program objectives and demonstrate organizational capacity