The U.S. Embassy in Manama invites applications for the Public Diplomacy Small Grants Program for Fiscal Year 2025. This program funds initiatives that strengthen ties between the United States and Bahrain through shared cultural, educational, and professional exchanges. Proposed projects should align with priority areas such as scientific and technological cooperation, entrepreneurship, economic integration, cultural heritage preservation, and combating disinformation. All projects must include a strong U.S. connection, such as collaboration with American experts, organizations, or institutions. Applications are due by December 15, 2024, April 15, 2025, or July 15, 2025, depending on the cycle.
Awards range from $3,000 to $25,000 and can take the form of grants, fixed-amount awards, or cooperative agreements. The program performance period is one to 12 months. Applications must address priority themes but may propose projects outside these areas with justification. Ineligible projects include those related to partisan politics, religious activities, construction, or lobbying.
Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, think tanks, academic institutions, and individuals. For-profit entities may apply if they operate on a non-profit basis for the proposed program. Applicants are encouraged, though not required, to include cost-sharing elements in their proposals, such as in-kind contributions or matching funds.
Applications must include a summary cover sheet, a proposal narrative, and a detailed budget. The narrative should describe the project’s goals, methods, timeline, key personnel, and sustainability plan. Applicants must also include monitoring and evaluation strategies to measure success against defined objectives. Attachments, such as resumes, letters of support, and proof of non-profit status, are required. All submissions must adhere to U.S. government reporting and compliance requirements, including SAM.gov registration.
Proposals will be evaluated based on organizational capacity, program feasibility, alignment with U.S. Embassy priorities, and potential for sustained impact. The budget must be detailed, realistic, and reasonable, with clear justifications for all expenses. The U.S. Embassy will notify applicants of selection outcomes in writing.
Successful applicants will receive funding in two installments: up to 80% of the total award amount upfront, with the remaining 20% reimbursed upon successful program completion. Awardees must submit periodic financial and programmatic reports as outlined in the award agreement. Questions about the program can be directed to the Public Affairs Section via email at ManamaPAO@state.gov.
