Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) 2026

The Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund is administered by the U.S. Department of State through the U.S. Mission to Guinea, specifically the Public Diplomacy Section at the U.S. Embassy in Conakry. This program is part of a broader federal initiative under Educational and Cultural Exchange Programs designed to extend the impact of U.S. government-funded exchange programs. The fund supports alumni of these exchange programs by enabling them to develop and implement community-based projects that align with U.S. foreign policy priorities and strengthen international partnerships. The 2026 cycle places particular emphasis on commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States, referred to as Freedom 250, while advancing themes such as prosperity, security, and freedom of expression. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to empower alumni of U.S. exchange programs in Guinea to lead initiatives that promote shared values and deliver tangible benefits to their local communities. Projects must align with stated objectives, including fostering alumni collaboration, strengthening ties between alumni and the U.S. government, and building leadership capacity. Eligible projects are expected to convene alumni networks, facilitate professional development, or support collaborative solutions to community challenges. All projects must incorporate at least one of the outlined objectives and demonstrate alignment with Freedom 250 themes. Funding under this program ranges from a minimum of 5000 dollars to a maximum of 30000 dollars per award, with an estimated total program funding of 60000 dollars and approximately two awards expected. There is no cost sharing or matching requirement. Funds may be used for a wide range of allowable expenses, including personnel, travel, supplies, equipment, contractual services, and indirect costs, provided they are clearly justified and directly tied to project objectives. Budget submissions must follow strict formatting guidelines and include both a detailed line-item budget and a narrative justification explaining each cost. Eligibility for this opportunity is broad but includes specific conditions. Applicants may include individuals, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and public international organizations. However, all proposed projects must be led by alumni of U.S. government-funded exchange programs. If teams are applying, they must include at least two non-U.S. citizen alumni, and U.S. citizen alumni may not serve as team leads. For-profit entities are explicitly excluded from eligibility. Organizations may collaborate through subcontracts, but only one nonprofit, non-governmental entity may serve as the primary recipient. The application process requires submission through Grants.gov and includes several mandatory components. Applicants must complete federal forms such as SF-424, SF-424A, and SF-424B where applicable. In addition, a detailed proposal narrative of up to ten pages must be submitted using a specified template. This narrative must include sections such as a proposal summary, organizational background, problem statement, program design, timeline, personnel, partnerships, sustainability plan, and a monitoring and evaluation framework. Supporting documents such as resumes, letters of support, and proof of registration are also required. Applications must be submitted by May 7, 2026. Questions regarding the solicitation must also be submitted by this date. The review process involves evaluation of the proposal’s alignment with program goals, feasibility, clarity, and potential impact. Final funding decisions are contingent upon approval and execution of a formal grant agreement. The U.S. Mission retains discretion to adjust budgets or decline awards based on program needs and funding availability. For additional information or assistance, applicants may contact the Public Affairs Section at [email protected] or reach out to the listed program contact. This funding opportunity is part of an annual cycle, indicating that similar opportunities may be available in future years, though applicants should verify timelines and requirements for each new cycle.

Ensure strong alignment with Freedom 250 themes and clearly measurable outcomes; provide detailed and justified budget linked to project activities