The EducationUSA 2025-2026 funding opportunity, managed by the U.S. Mission to Albania, is designed to support the operation of an EducationUSA advising center located in Tirana. EducationUSA is a global initiative led by the U.S. Department of State, comprising over 430 educational advising centers in more than 175 countries and territories. These centers offer comprehensive, up-to-date, and accurate guidance on U.S. higher education options to international students, facilitating connections between students and American colleges and universities that best meet their academic and personal needs.
This funding opportunity is structured as a Cooperative Agreement, with a total program funding of $18,000. One award will be granted to a not-for-profit organization, including think tanks and civil society or non-governmental organizations, which will be responsible for the logistical and operational aspects of running the center. This includes paying rent, utilities, internet service, an adviser's salary, and travel expenses within Albania. The EducationUSA adviser, appointed by the U.S. Embassy, will handle programming, outreach, advising, applicant tracking, and social media content creation, following Department of State guidelines.
The initiative supports the broader goals of the U.S. Embassy in promoting strong interpersonal connections between Albanian and American citizens, as well as reinforcing democratic values and supporting economic development through education. Specific objectives for fiscal year 2025 include expanding student advising outreach through in-person and virtual engagement, exploring new partnerships, enhancing visibility of the advising center, and strengthening networks with teachers and career counselors.
Eligibility is limited to not-for-profit organizations capable of facilitating day-to-day operations of the advising center, as outlined in the full grant announcement. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement for applicants. Interested organizations must submit their applications by May 31, 2025. The notice does not specify an opening date for submissions, suggesting applications may be submitted immediately upon posting.
Applicants may direct any questions or concerns regarding the application or the opportunity to the email contact listed: tiranayouthoutreach@state.gov. The funding opportunity is cataloged under the Assistance Listings number 19.022 and falls under the “Earmark” opportunity category with a funding activity classification of "Other."
