Zambia Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund 2026

The Zambia Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) is a funding opportunity offered by the U.S. Department of State through the U.S. Embassy in Zambia, specifically managed by the Public Diplomacy Section. This program is part of the broader Educational and Cultural Exchange Programs initiative and is designed to build on the United States government’s investment in exchange program alumni. Since its inception in 2011, AEIF has funded hundreds of alumni-led projects globally, focusing on empowering alumni to implement innovative solutions that align with U.S. foreign policy objectives while benefiting their local communities. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to support alumni-driven projects that strengthen networks, promote collaboration, and reinforce relationships between alumni and the U.S. government. For the current cycle, all proposed projects must align with U.S. policy priorities and specifically incorporate themes related to “Freedom 250,” commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States. Priority areas include promoting freedom of expression and digital freedom, highlighting American excellence, and contributing to a safer and more prosperous United States. In addition to standard projects, applicants may also propose national or regional alumni summits, which can include follow-on activities such as small grants programs. Funding is provided through grants or fixed amount awards, with total program funding estimated at $170,000, subject to availability. Individual awards typically range from $5,000 to $35,000 for traditional projects, while larger summit proposals may request up to $100,000. Projects must be completed within a 12-month performance period, with an anticipated start date of October 1, 2026. While cost sharing is encouraged, it is not required. Certain activities are explicitly prohibited, including construction, direct social services, partisan political activities, fundraising campaigns, and projects focused on institutional development rather than programmatic impact. Eligibility is limited to U.S. Department of State exchange program alumni. Applicants may apply as teams of at least two alumni, alumni associations, or nonprofit organizations represented by alumni. For-profit entities are not eligible to serve as the primary recipient, though they may participate as subcontractors. Organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and maintain active registration in SAM.gov, while individuals are exempt from these requirements. Applicants may submit only one proposal per organization, and all project activities must take place outside the United States, specifically targeting audiences within Zambia. The application process requires submission of several mandatory components, including proposal and budget forms, federal assistance forms (SF-424 series), and supporting documentation such as resumes and letters of support. Proposals must include a detailed narrative covering objectives, implementation methods, timelines, personnel, partnerships, sustainability, and a comprehensive Monitoring and Evaluation Performance Monitoring Plan. Applications must be submitted electronically via email to [email protected] by May 1, 2026 at 12:00 CAT. Applications are evaluated based on criteria including program quality and feasibility, organizational capacity, project planning, budget justification, monitoring and evaluation, and sustainability. Applicants can expect notification of results within approximately 120 days after the deadline. Selected recipients must comply with federal reporting requirements, including quarterly progress and financial reports, and final reports due within 120 days of project completion. While the opportunity does not explicitly state recurrence, AEIF is historically an annual program, suggesting future funding cycles may occur on a similar timeline.

Ensure strong alignment with Freedom 250 and U.S. policy priorities; provide detailed and measurable objectives; include a robust monitoring and evaluation plan; clearly define roles and partnerships