Celebrating Americas 250th Anniversary

The U.S. Department of State’s Public Diplomacy Section at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut has announced a grant opportunity under its Annual Program Statement titled “Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary.” This initiative commemorates the signing of the U.S. Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, and aims to highlight the enduring diplomatic, cultural, and academic ties between the United States and Lebanon. As the U.S. prepares for its semiquincentennial celebration in 2026, this funding opportunity seeks to support public diplomacy programs that reflect on American history, showcase innovation, and emphasize 250 years of U.S.-Lebanese collaboration. Funded through the FY25 Smith-Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds, this opportunity is designed for organizations and individuals in Lebanon to implement projects that engage local audiences with American culture, achievements, and values. Projects must demonstrate a clear U.S. connection and should include elements like cooperation with U.S. institutions or experts. Programs with a nationwide reach in Lebanon and those emphasizing bilateral ties, historical narratives, cultural exports, or scientific and technological advancements will be viewed favorably. The available funding totals $600,000, with individual awards ranging from $150,000 to $250,000 for organizations, and from $75,000 to $150,000 for individuals. Up to four awards are anticipated, contingent on available funding. Programs are expected to run between 12 and 18 months, with a proposed start date of September 30, 2025. Applicants may apply for grants or cooperative agreements, the latter involving substantial involvement from U.S. Embassy staff in program implementation. Eligible applicants include Lebanese non-profit organizations (including think tanks and NGOs), private educational institutions, and individuals. Organizations must possess a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and register in SAM.gov. Individuals are exempt from these requirements. Applications must be submitted in English and include a completed SF-424 series of forms, a five-page proposal, budget documents, resumes of key personnel, letters of support, and, if applicable, a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA). The application deadline is September 2, 2025. The Embassy will host a virtual information session on August 18, 2025, via Microsoft Teams. Applications must be submitted to PDBeirutGrants@state.gov. Proposals will be reviewed by September 16, and final decisions will be communicated by September 18. The issuance of awards depends on the availability of funds and administrative approvals from the Department of State. Applications will be evaluated based on strategic value, innovation, feasibility, goals and objectives, organizational capacity, monitoring and evaluation plans, sustainability, and budget justification. Programs must demonstrate measurable impact and a plan for post-grant sustainability. Ineligible activities include partisan political efforts, fundraising, religious promotion, and scientific research. Additionally, funding cannot be transferred to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). Grant recipients must comply with all relevant federal anti-discrimination and foreign funding disclosure laws.

Ensure applications are in English, budgets in USD, and proposals no more than five pages. Use 12-point Calibri font, A4 format, and number pages. A virtual info session will be held August 18 via Microsoft Teams.