Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) 2026

The Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) is an initiative of the U.S. Department of State that provides funding for projects designed and led by alumni of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs. Launched in 2011, the AEIF supports innovative community-based solutions to global challenges through a competitive annual grant process. For 2026, the U.S. Embassy in Tunisia is managing the funding opportunity, targeting alumni teams to propose projects that strengthen civil society, enhance cultural and educational connections, and promote economic prosperity. The AEIF 2026 program is structured to empower teams of at least two eligible alumni to collaborate on impactful initiatives. Projects should align with at least one of the embassy's stated thematic priorities: celebrating America’s 250th birthday through cultural engagement, promoting freedom of expression via arts and media, fostering economic growth through English language and innovation, or building alumni networks that support safer and stronger communities. The intent is to encourage alumni to utilize their international exchange experience to lead programs that resonate within their local contexts while advancing shared values. Funding under this opportunity ranges from $5,000 to $35,000 per award, with a total program budget of $70,000 pending availability of funds. Awards will be administered as individual grants, fixed amount awards, or cooperative agreements, depending on the nature of the proposal. If implemented under a cooperative agreement, the U.S. Embassy will maintain a significant role in guiding the project, including involvement in participant selection, messaging approval, and coordination of activities. All project activities must be completed within a 12-month period starting around September 2026. Eligible applicants include alumni of U.S. government-funded or facilitated exchange programs. While U.S. citizen alumni are ineligible to lead applications, they may participate in project teams. Alumni from different programs and countries may collaborate, and proposals may be submitted by individual alumni or by alumni associations. Partnering with nonprofits, academic institutions, or think tanks is encouraged for implementation purposes. While cost-sharing is not mandatory, applicants who propose it must commit to the specified amount in the approved agreement. The application process requires submission through an online form available via the U.S. Embassy Tunis website or Grants.gov. Required documents include the completed application, proposal, and budget forms. Optional attachments include a one-page resume for key personnel, letters of support from project partners, and any necessary official permissions. Applicants must ensure all documentation is submitted in English and formatted according to specified guidelines. All organizations must have a UEI and be registered in SAM.gov, though individuals are exempt from this requirement. Applications are due no later than Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 23:59 local time in Tunisia. Proposals will be evaluated by the Embassy Grants Review Committee based on criteria including program quality, alumni involvement, feasibility, budget justification, monitoring and evaluation plans, and sustainability. Awards will be announced by May 30, 2026. Funded projects are expected to adhere to all applicable U.S. federal laws and Department of State grant regulations, including reporting obligations and compliance with branding guidelines.

Proposals should clearly align with stated priorities and demonstrate alumni leadership, realistic implementation, and strong evaluation and sustainability plans.