Grants for Exclusive - see details - International Development

The USG Alumni Small grants program is designed to engage USG Alumni by funding innovative projects that align with the prioritized themes. The organization awarded this grant will demonstrate capacity for creative and effective solicitation of project proposals from USG Alumni, collecting applications biannually in spring and fall cycles. The chosen organization will also play a critical role in strengthening the USG Alumni network across all regions of the Kyrgyz Republic, organizing professional development seminars, and facilitating reunions to foster alumni community. PDS anticipates allocating approximately $88,000 to support between 10 to 15 alumni initiatives. Funding will be awarded based on panel review. Program Goal: Enhance engagement of U.S. government exchange alumni throughout the Kyrgyz Republic on key issues affecting their communities through skills-building, networking, and professional development opportunities. The goal of the program is to support 20-30 USG alumni-led projects that aim to strengthen the alumni community, benefit local communities, advance shared goals between the United States and the Kyrgyz Republic, and contribute to the professional and personal development of at least 500 USG alumni. This will be achieved through a series of reunions and professional and personal development workshops designed to enhance skills, foster networking, and promote continuous learning and collaboration among alumni.

Economy Energy Security Entrepreneurship programs for underserved audiences that develop an entrepreneurial spirit and business development skills in target groups, including high school students, women, minorities, and people in small cities and rural areas outside of Zagreb. Innovative and educational programs that promote green economy and eco-friendly entrepreneurial initiatives. Programs that promote energy diversification in the near term and renewable energy development. Programs that promote energy security, cyber security, and/or our NATO security alliance. Croatia as a Regional Leader Global Challenges Programs that promote human rights, support marginalized groups, encourage gender equality and empowerment of women and youth, and that foster a culture of integration and diversity. Programs that train audiences to recognize disinformation or misinformation online and in news, their ability to counter foreign state and non-state propaganda and disinformation that undermines faith in democratic governance. Proposals that support increased awareness of disinformation among the media and journalists are welcome.

The Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) serves as the head of the U.S. Intelligence Community (IC), overseeing and directing the implementation of the National Intelligence Program and acting as the principal advisor to the President, the National Security Council, and the Homeland Security Council for intelligence matters related to national security. ODNIs Office of the Assistant Director of National Intelligence for Human Capital (ADNI/HC) houses the IC Centers for Academic Excellence (CAE) Program Office (IC CAE PO), responsible for developing and distributing this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA), managing the application review process, and providing post-award grants program administration. The design of the IC CAE Program was formulated and executed in accordance with: The Intelligence Authorization Act (IAA) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2010 (updated/amended 18 July 2019); 50 U.S.C. 3224 (Intelligence Officer Training Program); and 50 U.S.C. 3024(n)(4) (Acquisition and Other Authorities) The IC CAE Program began as a three-year pilot project directed by congressional authorization and appropriation for FY 2004 and was initiated by the Director of Central Intelligence to meet the nations demand for a diverse cadre of professionals to carry out national security priorities and obligations. In 2005, following the establishment of ODNI, the program moved under ODNI management with the intent to increase the pool of applicants by expanding awareness of the IC mission and culture throughout ethnically and geographically diverse communities. From October 2011 through December 2019, the IC CAE Program was managed by the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), with oversight from ODNI, and expanded in scope and number of grant recipients. In December 2019, congress returned management of the IC CAE Program to the ODNI. Section 1024 of the National Security Act, as last amended in 2019, provides for this Program as follows: (a) PROGRAMS (1) The Director of National Intelligence may carry out grant programs in accordance with subsections (b) and (c) to enhance the recruitment and retention of an ethnically and culturally diverse intelligence community workforce with capabilities critical to the national security interests of the United States. (2) In carrying out paragraph (1), the Director shall identify the skills necessary to meet current or emergent needs of the intelligence community and the educational disciplines that will provide individuals with such skills. (b) INSTITUTIONAL GRANT PROGRAM (1) The Director may provide grants to institutions of higher education [IHEs] to support the establishment or continued development of programs of study in educational disciplines identified under subsection (a)(2). (2) A grant provided under paragraph (1) may, with respect to the educational disciplines identified under subsection (a)(2), be used for the following purposes: (A) Curriculum or program development. (B) Faculty development. (C) Laboratory equipment or improvements. (D) Faculty research. (c) GRANT PROGRAM FOR CERTAIN MINORITY-SERVING COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES. (1) The Director may provide grants to Historically Black Colleges and Universities [HBCUs] and Predominantly Black Institutions [PBIs], Hispanic Serving Institutions [HSIs], and Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions [AANAPISIs] to provide programs of study in educational disciplines identified under subsection (a)(2) or described in paragraph (2). (2) A grant provided under paragraph (1) may be used to provide programs of study in the following educational disciplines: (A) Intermediate and advanced foreign languages deemed in the immediate interest of the intelligence community, including Farsi, Pashto, Middle Eastern, African, and South Asian dialects. (B) Study abroad programs and cultural immersion programs. (d) APPLICATION An institution of higher education seeking a grant under this section shall submit an application describing the proposed use of the grant at such time and in such manner as the Director may require. (e) REPORTS An institution of higher education that receives a grant under this section shall submit to the Director regular reports regarding the use of such grant, including (1) a description of the benefits to students who participate in the course of study funded by such grant; (2) a description of the results and accomplishments related to such course of study; and (3) any other information that the Director may require For the 2024 IC CAE grant cycle, any acceptably accredited four-year Institutions of Higher Education (IHE) in the United States (its Territories and the District of Columbia) shall be eligible to apply as a Lead Institution. Acceptably accredited two-year IHE in the United States (its Territories and the District of Columbia), e.g., Community Colleges shall be eligible to apply as consortium partners, not as lead institutions. If the lead IHE is one of the four Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) categories listed in (c)(1) above, a consortium partner(s) is optional, but not required. However, if the lead IHE does not belong to one of the four MSI categories, then the application must include at least one additional IHE that qualifies as one of the four MSI categories listed above. Schools designated as any of these four MSI categories may be either the lead applicant or a consortium partner, or these MSI categories may make up the entire consortium. IHEs with Minority-serving designations other than the four listed may be either the lead applicant or a partner so long as at least one member school from the four named MSI categories is also a partner. The 2022 IC CAE grant receiving institutions and their consortia partners are not eligible to apply as they may not receive funds for the same initiative from two separate grants at the same time. More detailed information on eligibility can be found in Section III Eligibility. IHEs that receive grants under this program (lead and IHE consortia members) shall submit to the DNI, regular reports regarding the use of the grant funds including: A description of the benefits to students who participate in the course(s) of study funded by the grant. A description of the results and accomplishments related to the program objectives for the selected instructional pathway. The number of IC CAE Scholars and aspiring Scholars Demographic information related to participating students (anonymized). Any additional programmatic information that the IC CAE Program may require. Applicants (lead and consortia member IHEs) for this funding opportunity announcement acknowledge and accept these reporting requirements and must reflect this understanding and their compliance plans in their applications. Recipients of this grant shall be required to report metrics related to student ethnic and cultural diversity, as well as participation in all funded aspects of their program. Schools selected as grant recipients become known as IC CAE Program Schools. Students that participate in IC CAE Program School-funded curricula and programs are encouraged to work towards becoming IC CAE Scholars, a status obtained by achieving certain milestones and defined in the Key References, Appendix B. This association propels the students toward becoming part of an IC talent pool of choice. Becoming a scholar also recognizes students exceptional intellect, academic achievements, and dedication to knowledge pursuit. The IC CAE Program Office at ODNI (IC CAE PO) encourages applications that showcase innovative ideas for establishing enduring curriculum, partnerships, and programs in areas of interest to the IC and national security. The IC CAE PO has found the most successful recipients are those guided by personnel with knowledge of and experience in the IC; however, this is not a requirement. Further findings show that school programs are enhanced by partnerships with and outreach to IC installations (offices, bases, or other concentrations of personnel) and private industry in their regions supporting intelligence/national security work. This allows additional resources to provide Subject Matter Expert speakers, internship opportunities, and other interactions with intelligence professionals. Applicants for this grant are encouraged to obtain and become familiar with the information on the IC CAE Program by accessing the ODNI website at: https://www.odni.gov/iccae.

The U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi is pleased to announce an open competition to apply for the Media Sustainability Program aimed at supporting the sustainability of media organizations that inform Georgian audiences through a grants program. The program seeks to support media outlets looking to develop business and media management skills. It also supports outlets looking to build data or technological skills as a means of enhancing media sustainability. Program Objectives: The objective of the program is to provide support to media organizations in enhancing their sustainability by offering grants to address the following priorities: Develop or update business models to adapt to the rapidly changing media landscape. Implement strategies to better understand key audiences and inform decision-making. Improve digital presence. Integrate new technologies to improve efficiency. Explore opportunities for diverse revenue streams (one example could be offering production services to external clients). Collaborations with a U.S. expert or with a private sector entity are looked upon favorably.

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement (PM/WRA) is pleased to invite eligible organizations to submit applications for a cooperative agreement to conduct physical security and stockpile management (PSSM) support in Jordan during fiscal year 2024. Specific goals, objectives, and technical requirements for application packages are detailed below. PM/WRA anticipates awarding up to $2,400,000 under this funding opportunity.

The Office of Academic Exchange Programs (ECA/A/E), Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for a cooperative agreement to assist in the administration of the FY 2025 Fulbright Student Program. The Fulbright Student Program is a major component of the worldwide Fulbright Program, which also includes the Fulbright Scholar and Fulbright Specialist Programs, as well as the Fulbright Teacher Exchange Program and the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program. For over 75 years, the Fulbright Student Program has offered awards for college and university graduates to engage in degree study, to teach, and to conduct research abroad and in the United States. The hallmark of the Fulbright Student Program is the selection of all participants through open and transparent merit-based competition. Tens of thousands of U.S. and foreign students have participated in these academic exchanges since the Fulbright Program's inception in 1946. The Fulbright Student Program sends approximately 1,908 U.S. students and early career professionals abroad annually to conduct independent research, serve as teaching assistants and cultural resources in English classrooms, and pursue academic studies at overseas institutions. Reciprocally, the program brings approximately 2,150 foreign participants from approximately 160 countries to the United States for similar activities hosted primarily by U.S. colleges and universities. Responsibility for the management of the Fulbright Student Program is shared between the U.S. Department of State in Washington, DC, 49 bilateral Fulbright commissions, approximately 100 U.S. embassies overseas, and private sector cooperating agencies in the United States. Overall policies and selection guidelines for the Fulbright Student Program are determined by the presidentially appointed J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board (FFSB). The organization(s) awarded a cooperative agreement under this competition will be responsible for placement, monitoring, organization of enrichment activities for program participants, disbursement of funds, and records management for the FY 2025 cohort of U.S. students and foreign students as well as the program promotion and recruitment and selection of the FY 2026 cohort of U.S. and foreign students. This work will be supervised by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Please see the full announcement for additional information.

The Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of the U.S. Mission Afghanistan is pleased to announce an open competition for eligible organizations to submit applications to carry out a program providing educational advising services to public diplomacy program participants and alumni, and to current undergraduate and high school students in Afghanistan, with the goal of assisting qualified applicants in Afghanistan who are ready to pursue higher education at institutions in the region, and in the U.S. This program aims to provide a range of educational advising services, in group and individualized sessions, to promote awareness of educational opportunities for Afghans, and build Afghan capacity to successfully apply for and participate in international higher education opportunities. This program supports increasing access to higher education and should focus on improving access to education for Afghan particularly the women.

The Office of English Language Programs (ECA/A/L) of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs announces an open competition for the FY 2024 Online Professional English Network (OPEN) Program, which offers foreign English teaching professionals and language learners the opportunity for professional development through high-quality, accessible, and openly licensed virtual resources, including online English language teacher development courses, online English language learning courses, virtual exchanges, webinars, an alumni community of practice (CoP), multiple social media channels, and other types of engaging and innovative online learning. In cooperation with ECA/A/L, the award recipient will manage the selection, development, and delivery of appropriate online TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) learning courses which will be offered to English language educators or learners on an easily accessible online learning management system (LMS). Courses, webinars, and other virtual programming may be offered globally, regionally, or to specific countries at the request of U.S. embassies. Courses and exchanges are developed by U.S. academic institutions, educational NGOs, or TESOL professional associations, while webinars and other social media programming are developed by U.S.-based TESOL professionals. All content produced for this program should be accessible according to Section 508 compliance standards, openly licensed with a Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) License, and follow best practices for diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA). ECA/A/L anticipates an unlimited number of English language professionals, educators, and learners will benefit from the openly licensed virtual programming, webinars, massive open online courses (MOOCs), and content developed under this award. U.S. public and private non-profit organizations meeting the provisions described in Internal Revenue Code, Section 26 U.S.C 501 (c) (3) may submit proposals to administer and manage the FY 2024 OPEN Program. It is ECA/A/Ls intent to award one cooperative agreement in the amount of $6,000,000, pending the availability of FY 2024 funds, to an applicant that has the ability to achieve these objectives and provide the necessary infrastructure and experience. ECA/A/L reserves the right to reduce, revise, or increase proposal budgets and participant numbers in accordance with the needs of the program and the availability of funds. Please see the full announcement for additional information.

The Global Leaders Division in the Office of Citizen Exchanges at the U.S. Department of States Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) invites proposal submissions to design, administer, and implement the FY 2024 Arctic Indigenous Exchange Program (AIEP). This new initiative will bring together approximately 50 Indigenous leaders, including business development professionals, government officials, and entrepreneurs from Canada, the Kingdom of Denmark (Greenland), and the United States (Alaska), for a multi-phase exchange program to explore areas of regional cooperation across the Arctic. The goal of this program is to strengthen people-to-people relationships, advance cooperation, and foster greater commercial and cultural ties between Arctic Indigenous populations in the United States, Canada, and Greenland across a range of priority areas. U.S. public and private non-profit organizations meeting the provisions described in Internal Revenue Code section 26 USC 501(c)(3) may submit proposals to provide a series of exchange projects ranging in size and scope, focused on critical topics to Arctic Indigenous communities in Greenland, Canada, and the United States (specifically Alaska), including sustainable economic development, climate and the environment, and health and well-being. It is anticipated that this cooperative agreement will support approximately three to six distinct exchange projects for approximately 50 participants, including approximately 35 foreign and 15 U.S. participants. Exchange activities may include, but are not limited to, regional workshops, summits, and alumni activities, as appropriate in any of the three participating countries.For additional details please see the full announcement.

The Office of Citizen Exchanges at the U.S. Department of States Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) invites proposals for the FY 2024 Leaders Lead On-Demand program (LLOD). LLOD takes ideas generated across the U.S. Department of State and develops them into uniquely tailored, multi-segmented projects. LLOD supports U.S. foreign policy goals by enabling ECA to quickly respond to emerging foreign policy priorities. U.S. public and private non-profit organizations meeting the provisions described in Internal Revenue Code section 26 USC 501(c)(3) may submit proposals to provide a series of multi-segmented exchange projects ranging in size and scope, each involving current or potential government, business, and civil society leaders. It is anticipated that this cooperative agreement will support four to six distinct exchange projects for approximately 75 participants including approximately 55 foreign participants and 20 from the United States.A central component of each project will include a group of foreign participants who will ideally travel to the United States for an intensive, tailored program. Activities could offer a range of program components that may include participation in workshops, meetings, events, mentorships, or working placements in U.S. organizations or businesses. Any U.S.-based program should be complemented by at least one additional segment overseas that should include U.S. participants. Both foreign and U.S. participants should have experience or expertise in the field of the exchange project and U.S. participants should engage with the foreign participants during both the U.S. and foreign program components. The award recipient will work closely with ECA, other Department of State representatives, in-country or regionally-based partner organizations, as appropriate, to recruit, screen, and select the participants and develop program activities that best address the specific project goal(s). The final list of participants should be approved by ECA. U.S. participants will be selected in close consultation with ECA. Additional project components, such as regional gatherings of participants overseas, small grants competitions, or local trainings should be developed, as appropriate, based on the scope and goals of the specific exchange. Please see the announcement for additional information.

The Office of Citizen Exchanges, Youth Programs Division of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) announces an FY 2024 open competition for three distinct regional Youth Ambassadors programs (previously called Youth Leadership Programs) with select countries in East Asia and Pacific (EAP), Europe and Eurasia (EUR), and the Middle East and North Africa (NEA). U.S. public and private non-profit organizations meeting the provisions described in Internal Revenue Code section 26 USC 501(c)(3) may submit proposals to provide participants with four-week exchanges in the United States focused on the primary themes of civic education, leadership development, respect for diversity, and community engagement and to support the implementation of service projects in their home communities. The EAP and NEA programs also will engage approximately 3-5 adult mentors in programming alongside youth participants. Competitively selected U.S. secondary students will join participants in U.S.-based activities on the NEA exchanges. Only one proposal per region will be considered by ECA from each applicant organization. In cases where more than one submission per region from an applicant appears in grants.gov, ECA will only consider the submission made closest in time to the NOFO deadline; that submission would constitute the one and only proposal ECA would review for the region from that applicant. Please see the full announcement for additional information.

The U.S. Embassy Tashkent Public Diplomacy Section (PD) of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations or individuals to submit applications to conduct innovative and creative programs to promote and improve English language usage, teaching, and learning for certain specific purposes. As part of the cooperative agreement, priority areas will be identified by Tashkent PD. Potential priority areas include but are not limited to cyber security, law enforcement and forensics, geology and mining, tourism, agriculture, water management, and cultural heritage preservation sectors across Uzbekistan. Proposals must support initiatives such as: improving the English language capacity within one or more of these specific sectors, creating sustainable development models to support the continued development of English language within the identified sector, and increasing the usage of the English language for professional purposes such as publications, international conferences, and international communities of practice. This funding opportunity seeks to improve the quality of English for specific purposes by supporting new programming and projects focused on: increasing English language capacity among those working or studying in designated fields, furthering knowledge of new and innovative ways to support engagement with potential English-speaking partners and developing sustainable programming to support the growth of English within the designated area of study throughout Uzbekistan. More specifically, this opportunity is looking for English language educators and institutions to be creative and establish centers or programs that can increase English language ability for current and future professionals.

The U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service Pilot (USFCS) Fellowship Program provides an opportunity for Masters degree students in the fields of International Affairs, International Relations, International Studies, Economics, Business, Trade, Public Administration, or Public Policy, to increase their level of knowledge and awareness of the Foreign Commercial Service (FCS) and its vital role in promoting American exports and facilitating trade and commerce around the world. The program also provides a pathway to potential employment with the Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration, Global Markets, and particularly encourages students from underserved communities to apply. The U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service is dedicated to ensuring that diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the core of every action and every decision. Having varied perspectives helps generate better ideas to solve the complex problems of a changing world. It also enables us to be effective stewards and reflect the communities in which we live, work, and play. As such, creating a culture that is welcoming and inclusive of all helps to ensure the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service is able to effectively execute on its mission of creating prosperity by strengthening the international competitiveness of U.S. industry, promoting trade and investment, and ensuring fair trade and compliance with trade laws and agreements. Individuals who are U.S. citizens or U.S. nationals and are in the first year of an eligible Masters degree program, or will complete their first year in the spring or summer of 2024, at a U.S. accredited institution, may apply. Given the structure of the Program, individuals enrolled in Masters degree programs of less than a two-year duration are not eligible to apply. Fellowship selections are based on academic excellence, letters of recommendations, a personal statement, relevant experience, skills demonstrated during interviews, and financial need. Applicants must have either 1) a cumulative 3.30 grade point average (GPA) in their graduate program or 2) have earned a cumulative 3.30 grade point average from undergraduate studies to be eligible to apply. Applicants must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.30 per either semester or quarter for the duration of their Masters degree program. If Fellows engage in fraudulent conduct or fail to comply with any term or condition of the fellowship, funding may be withdrawn, or Fellows may be required to repay monies already received. Additionally, if the selecting official determines that satisfactory progress towards market research and the Fellowship paper is not completed within the timeframe of the award, Fellows may be required to repay any expenses borne by the government for their participation in the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service Pilot Fellowship Program. The U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service Pilot Fellowship Program may provide, subject to appropriations, up to $35,000 of support per person for up to an eight-week fellowship program in an overseas U.S. diplomatic mission. Recipients of a U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service Pilot Fellowship will be required to participate in a mandatory one-week Office of Global Talent Management Orientation and Training in the spring of 2025. As a recipient of the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service Pilot Fellowship, you become a recognized member of the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service community. Global Markets will provide financial resources to help you increase the level of knowledge and awareness of the Foreign Commercial Service (FCS) and how it facilitates the growth of global trade, commerce, and American exports, as well as provide mentorship to assist you with your learning experience. There will be two separate program deliverables required of each Fellow. The first deliverable is the Individual Post Analysis Report (IPAR) which will document the up to eight-week summer enrichment program at an assigned overseas post, summarizing industry sector-focused market research that helps clients understand the opportunities available in selling their specific products and services in a select market as well as any specific tariff or non-tariff regulatory barriers that may impede market access. The IPAR must be submitted by July 31, 2025. During the succeeding Professional Development and Networking phase of the fellowship, which runs from August 2025 through September 2025, the fellows will be assigned their second deliverable, a Capstone Project. Fellows will be provided with the Capstone Project requirements including specific prompts that highlight how they will transfer the knowledge and skills learned through the fellowship into her or his professional career. Mentors will be assigned to enhance the fellows growth and help them understand their own personal career development opportunities. At the culmination of the fellowship, the Fellow will be required in September 2025 to present their project virtually before a diverse panel of ITA/Global Markets senior managers. Fellows must be ready to travel overseas and pass a Security Assurance Check. Placements to an overseas location for the duration of the fellowship are required for every fellow. Federal financial support (grant) for the summer enrichment program may be used toward allowable costs such as: travel to and from the Department of Commerce facility, housing, per diem, books/materials costs. Funds cannot be used toward research costs. Fellows are required to provide their own health insurance coverage during the program collaboration. Health insurance coverage and any supplemental insurance can be paid for with grant funds. More details on allowable costs can be found in 2 CFR part 200, Subpart E Cost Principles. Applications for the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service Pilot Fellowship Program will be assessed on the criteria listed below. As a reminder, if you are in the last year of your Masters program, you are not eligible for this program. For a complete list of review criteria, please see Section V, subsection A. 1. Your statement of intent aligns closely with the International Trade Administration Foreign Commercial Service mission, with a particular interest in a career with the Foreign Commercial Service. This is 30 points of your application score. 2. You have exceptional letters of recommendation. This is 20 points of your application score. 3. Additional relevant experience and communication skills. This is 15 points of your application score.

The Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to carry out a project to bolster the capacity of obligated entities and government supervisors in El Salvador to develop and implement effective Anti-money Laundering and Counter Terrorist Finance (AML/CFT) compliance programs consistent with international standards and Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations. The primary objective of the project is to ensure that entities with high risks of money laundering in El Salvador are closely monitored and supervised. The project aims to facilitate the implementation of effective risk-based AML/CFT (Anti-Money Laundering/Combating the Financing of Terrorism) compliance programs that are in line with the best practices in the industry. By adopting these measures, the project seeks to prevent and detect instances of money laundering in the country.

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement (PM/WRA) is pleased to invite eligible organizations to submit applications for a cooperative agreement to conduct a physical security and stockpile management program in Nigeria during fiscal year 2025. Specific goals, objectives, and technical requirements for application packages are detailed below. PM/WRA anticipates awarding up to $500,000 under this funding opportunity.

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement (PM/WRA) is pleased to invite eligible organizations to submit applications for a grant to support the Iraqi governments national mine action authoritys information management and capacity building needs during fiscal year 2024. Specific goals, objectives, and technical requirements for application packages are detailed below. PM/WRA anticipates awarding up to $1,000,000 under this funding opportunity.

Executive Summary: The U.S. Embassy in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan announces an open competition for organizations to implement the Alumni Support Program in Turkmenistan (ASP). The purpose of this program is to strengthen the role of U.S. Government (USG) program alumni in supporting their communities and growing in their professional careers, while also deepening ties between alumni and across programs, regions and generations. This cooperative agreement will support one organization to oversee administration of small grants, organize events and facilitate better networking among alumni. Audience: past participants of USG programs, including: - Exchange programs: Artist Exchange, BFTF, Community Solutions, CAMEX, FLEX, Fulbright TEA, Fulbright Students, Fulbright Scholars, Humphrey Fellowship, Muskie Fellowship, Open World, IVLP, SUSI for Educators, Scholars, and Students, UGRAD, TechWomen, TechGirls, Alumni Ties. - Embassy-funded non-exchange programs: Prep4Success (P4S), Undergraduate Cohort Advising (UCA), American English Program (AEP), C5+ONE, OPEN. Project Goal: Expand engagement of U.S. government exchange alumni throughout Turkmenistan on key issues through increased networking and professional development opportunities Project Objectives: 1. Increase communication and collaboration between U.S. government exchange program alumni through networking opportunities. 2. Increase the number of alumni-led initiatives leveraging skills and knowledge acquired during exchange programs to address community needs and challenges. 3. Strengthen career and leadership skills of alumni through targeted professional development initiatives, including mentorship and coaching programs. Expected Themes Project Activities to be managed by the implementing partner: 1. Small Grants - Expanding the impact of USG programs in communities across Turkmenistan. The awardee will administer a small grants program for USG alumni and support alumni in developing and implementing projects that share American values, address community needs and/or educate public audiences. Priority will be given to projects that reach underserved communities, enhance the profile of alumni as community leaders and/or target thematic areas (to be agreed during the implementation period). Projects should have measurable outcomes and leverage other community resources when possible, including in-kind donations, public-private partnerships, alumni expertise, and cooperation with public sector institutions. Activities may include but not limited to: Develop a Grants Manual and award criteria. This document is expected to be a comprehensive guide or handbook (internal document for the grantee not for grant applicants) that outlines the process, procedures and best practices related to applying for, managing, and reporting on small grants. It may include but not limited to introduction (overview of purpose), detailed application process (when, how, where announced), eligibility, prioritization, reporting and compliance, budget instructions, monitoring and evaluation, and Q section. Engage with the alumni community in finalizing annual priority themes for the small grants. Publicize the grants program and conduct outreach in all regions of Turkmenistan. Conduct capacity-building seminars on topics such as project management and development, community engagement and monitoring and evaluation, reaching all regions of Turkmenistan. Award at least 20 grants through a competitive and transparent process. Track grant implementation, ensure visibility of grants, publicize success stories within the alumni community and engage grantees in sharing lessons learned. 2. Networking - Supporting a vibrant alumni community and increasing alumni ownership of activities: The awardee will conduct activities to support a vibrant alumni community and increase alumni ownership of all activities by planning events across the country and strengthening the capacity of the U.S.-Turkmenistan Alumni Association (USTAA). Activities: Conduct an alumni needs assessment and update the alumni contacts database. Recruit one Regional Alumni Representative (RAR) in each region, including Balkan, Dashoguz, Lebap and Mary. Attend USTAA meetings as needed and assist in administering USTAA activities and identifying resources for strengthening USTAA administration and pursuing legal registration. Promote opportunities for alumni and share alumni success stories through a quarterly Alumni Newsletter and engage alumni in content creation. Plan and conduct the Annual Alumni Gala for at least 130 alumni from across the country, in partnership with the USTAA. In collaboration with the U.S. Embassy, ensure alumni participation in Pre-Departure Orientations (PDOs) and Re-Entry Seminars for USG exchange programs. Organize at least one networking event in each region per calendar quarter. 3. Professional Development - Improving the leadership capacity of USG alumni. The awardee will support the professional development of USG alumni by providing travel and professional development grants, organizing professional networking events and/or providing other professional development opportunities for alumni. Activities: Develop criteria for issuing individual grants for professional development, such as conferences or short-term training, and publicize these opportunities widely within the alumni community. Hold regular professional development events, such as presentations, networking events, mentorship programs, soft skills workshops, peer-to-peer coaching, discussion clubs, etc., based on need.

The Educational Information and Resources Branch (EducationUSA Branch or ECA/A/S/A) in the Office of Global Educational Programs of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) announces a NOFO for up to three cooperative agreements to administer FY 2025 EducationUSA Advising Services, pending the availability of FY 2025 funds. EducationUSA is the U.S. Department of States global network of over 430 educational advising centers in more than 175 countries and territories. EducationUSA advisers provide accurate, comprehensive, and current information about the full range of U.S. higher education opportunities, guiding prospective students to find the institution that best fits their needs. In addition, the EducationUSA network assists accredited HEIs to help institutional leaders meet their campus internationalization goals, including strategic guidance to U.S. institutions regarding relevant international higher education systems and partners to enhance their international networks and potential partnerships. The EducationUSA network, in collaboration with ECA, also provides information on the U.S. higher education system to foreign governments and institutions and encourages study abroad by Americans to expand their understanding of foreign cultures, communities, and countries.With the goal of increasing student mobility between the United States and other countries through EducationUSA advising, ECA expects this NOFO will result in up to three cooperative agreements. Applicants can submit proposals for one, two, or all three of the components below: Component A for EducationUSA Global Advising Services to support advising operations worldwide including, but not limited to, the development and maintenance of IT infrastructure, training resources and materials, global strategic communications and outreach, and the employment and management of approximately 12 Regional Educational Advising Coordinators (REACs). (Approximately $6,600,000.) Component B for EducationUSA Advising Services in Eurasia and Central Asia, to support advising in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Estonia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, and Ukraine. (Approximately $1,500,000.) Component C for EducationUSA Advising Services in the Middle East and North Africa, to support advising in Egypt, Gaza, Lebanon, Tunisia, West Bank, and Yemen. (Approximately $650,000.) Please see the full announcement for additional information.

The U.S. Embassy Tashkent Public Diplomacy Section (PD) of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition to create an English teaching association for past participants (alumni) of U.S. government-funded -English Speaking Nation (ESN) professional development programs and for other exceptional English language teachers throughout Uzbekistan. Grants must support the creation and registration of a new teaching association, as well as the initial activities of the new association including but not limited to member recruitment, and the creation of professional development activities to support English language learning and teaching. Initial activities could include but are not limited to programs and events organized by the association to support professional development for English language teaching and learning in the country; training new generations of English language teachers and students; teaching practical English for professionals; motivating students to excel at English learning; and establishing English programs that support economic growth. This funding opportunity seeks to improve the quality of English language teaching and learning in the country by supporting the creation and registration of a new association of English teachers comprised primarily of, but not limited to, English Speaking Nation participants. This organization will engage in creating opportunities for teachers to share best practices; training new generations of English language teachers and students; motivating students to excel at English learning; and establishing English programs that support economic growth and development and improve the quality of English across the country.

The MERC Program is funded as assistance to promote scientific cooperation, technology-led development, and capacity building between partners in Israel and eligible countries/territories in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Subject to change based on U.S. federal law and country-specific restrictions on funding, those countries include: Algeria, Bahrain, Kuwait, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, and the West Bank and Gaza (hereinafter eligible MENA partners). Emphasis is given to research and technology subjects of regional importance and relevance to the development in the MENA. Moreover, benefits should target developing, USAID-presence countries in the MENA and resource-limited populations.Strong, direct cooperation between Israel and the eligible MENA partners is required for proposals receiving funding under the MERC Program. Participation of partners from outside the MENA, including the United States, is not a key feature of the MERC Program, but they may be considered for modest roles in exceptional cases to meet an essential technical need that is not otherwise available among the partners. Applicants must be prepared to provide a well justified case for the involvement of partners from outside the MENA and accept that the MERC Program may not support their participation.The overall goal of the MERC Program is to enhance research and development cooperation between Israel and its regional neighbors in support of achieving a comprehensive and lasting Middle East peace. As part of this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO), the MERC Program is seeking to fund proposals in the following categories:Continuation grants: Funding to extend existing or recently ended MERC awards.Travel and workshop grants: Support for workshops, meetings, and researcher exchange.