The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) is seeking Statements of Interest (SOIs) for funding opportunities to support programs that advance democracy, human rights, and labor globally. Eligible applicants include U.S.-based and foreign-based nonprofit organizations, NGOs, for-profit organizations (without profit margin), higher education institutions, and public international organizations. DRL prioritizes partnerships with local or thematic organizations that demonstrate expertise in managing similar projects.
Applications must be submitted electronically via MyGrants or Grants.gov. Eligible SOIs must meet the submission deadline, be written in English, include costs in U.S. dollars, and follow all stated guidelines. Applicants must also comply with U.S. laws, including anti-discrimination and anti-terrorism policies, and address barriers to equal participation based on race, gender, ethnicity, or disability.
SOI submissions must include the SF-424 and SF-424B forms and a three-page program statement. This statement should provide a summary of the proposed program, a clear breakdown of objectives, activities, expected results, and a description of the applicant's qualifications. DRL will evaluate SOIs based on the program idea's quality, planning, institutional capacity, and inclusivity. Successful SOIs will advance the bureau's mission of promoting inclusive, sustainable reforms and democratic governance.
DRL will review submissions through a competitive process, considering program originality, potential impact, stakeholder engagement, and geographic or thematic diversity. Selected applicants will be invited to submit full proposals. DRL reserves the right to reject any submission or refer SOIs for other U.S. government funding opportunities.
SOIs must address DRL's policy objectives, propose innovative solutions, and demonstrate capacity to manage U.S. government awards. Programs involving foreign security forces must comply with the Leahy Law, and applicants must pass mandatory vetting to ensure compliance with U.S. anti-terrorism regulations.
