Grants for Individuals - International Development

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE U.S. EMBASSY Vienna, Austria, PUBLIC DIPLOMACY SECTION Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) Funding Opportunity Title: Austrian-American Partnership Fund Funding Opportunity Number: SAU90024GR0099 Deadline for Applications: 08/31/2024 CFDA Number: 19.040 Public Diplomacy Programs Total Amount Available: $200,000 Maximum for Each Award: $25,000 A. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The U.S. Embassy Vienna, Austria, Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of the U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce that funding is available through its Public Diplomacy Small Grants Program. This is an Annual Program Statement, outlining our funding priorities, the strategic themes we focus on, and the procedures for submitting requests for funding. Purpose of Small Grants: The Austrian-American Partnership Fund (AAPF) is organized to fund projects advancing collaboration and dialogue and expand cooperation between Austria and the United States. AAPF accepts applications for funding for innovative projects that seek to bring American perspectives to Austria or connect Americans and Austrians in the following priority areas: Reinforcing the role of U.S.-Austrian and transatlantic ties in addressing shared challenges Promoting common democratic values and civic engagement Combating disinformation and building media literacy Addressing climate change together Fostering partnerships between U.S. and Austrian educational institutions Engaging youth around shared values Advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility Guidelines While requests for support typically range between $1,000 and $10,000, the maximum Embassy support is $25,000 total. Cosponsoring from additional funding sources is strongly encouraged. All proposed programs must include a U.S. component (such as the showcasing of an American expert or involvement of a U.S. organization) and aim to increase understanding of U.S. policies and perspectives among audiences within Austria. Primary audience should be non-Americans in Austria. Special consideration will be given to programs that reach youth and/or engage geographically or otherwise diverse communities in Austria. Proposals will also be evaluated based on their anticipated short and long-term impact, and on the ability to reach audiences using both traditional and innovative outreach tools. Submission deadlines and selection procedures Deadlines for submission of project proposals are February 15, May 15, July 15, and November 15. Since the selection process can take up to two months, applicants should plan accordingly. Evaluation Criteria Proposals will be evaluated by the U.S. Embassy Vienna Grants committee, based on feasibility of the project and whether it aligns with the Embassys priorities, the committee will select eligible and qualified applications based on the following criteria: Program areas addressed are aligned with stated priorities. Objectives and expected outcomes are clear. Target audience is identified and aligns with program objectives and outcomes. Detailed budget and timelines included. Budget cannot include budget items for miscellaneous expenses or requests for funding food, alcoholic beverages, or entertainment. Proposal is viable, reasonable, and executable. Compliance with required information and documents. The project clearly states how applicants will amplify outreach with audiences and evaluate and measure outputs and results during the project implementation period by way of quantitative and qualitative assessment tools. Authorizing legislation, type and year of funding: Funding authority rests in the Smith-Mundt-Act. The source of funding is FY2024 Public Diplomacy Funding. B. FEDERAL AWARD INFORMATION Length of performance period: 1 to 12 months Number of awards anticipated: 10-40 awards (dependent on amounts) Award amounts: awards may range from $1,000 to $25,000 Total available funding: $200,000 Type of Funding: Fiscal Year 2024 Public Diplomacy Funding Anticipated program start date: 2024 This notice is subject to availability of funding. Funding Instrument Type: Grant, Fixed Amount Award (FAAs), or Cooperative Agreement. C. ELIGILIBITY INFORMATION 1.Eligible Applicants We welcome applications from qualified individuals and organizations based in Austria or abroad. Registered non-profit/not-for-profit organizations, educational institutions, think tanks, civil society and non-governmental organizations, and associations with programming experience are eligible to apply. Please note that for-profit or commercial entities are not (not) eligible to apply. The following types of programs are not eligible for funding: The AAPF does not sponsor individual requests for scholarships or travel for educational purposes. Applications from organizations and individuals that do not meet the above criteria for eligibility. Projects related to humanitarian or charitable activities, or activities related to party politics. Construction programs. Programs that support specific religious activities. Conferences outside of Austria and personal trips abroad. Lobbying for specific legislation or programs. Commercial projects and activities. Fundraising and fundraising events. Conducting or publishing scientific research. Projects primarily serving the institutional development of the organization applying. 2.Cost Sharing or Matching Cost sharing is not required. 3.Other Eligibility Requirements In order to be eligible to receive an award, all organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number issued via www.SAM.gov as well as a valid registration on www.SAM.gov. Individuals are not required to have a UEI or be registered in SAM.gov. D. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION 1.Address to Request Application Package Application forms required below are available at www.grants.gov. 2.Content and Form of Application Submission Proposals that do not meet the requirements of this announcement or fail to comply with the stated requirements will be ineligible. The following documents are required: 1. Mandatory application forms SF-424 (Application for Federal Assistance organizations) or SF-424-I (Application for Federal Assistance --individuals) at grants.gov SF424A (Budget Information for Non-Construction programs) at grants.gov SF424B (Assurances for Non-Construction programs) at grants.gov 2. Summary Coversheet: Cover sheet stating the applicants name and organization, proposal date, program title, program period proposed start and end date, and brief purpose of the program. 3. Proposal (3 pages maximum): The proposal should contain sufficient information that anyone not familiar with it would understand exactly what the applicant wants to do. You may use your own proposal format, but it must include all the items below. Proposal Summary: Short narrative that outlines the proposed program, including program objectives and anticipated impact. Please include times and locations of planned events. Introduction to the Organization or Individual applying: A description of past and present operations, showing ability to carry out the program. Include organization/individual name, address, email address, phone number(s), key personnel involved in project. Problem Statement: Clear, concise, and well-supported statement of the problem to be addressed and why the proposed program is needed. Program Goals and Objectives: The goals describe what the program is intended to achieve. What aspect of the relationship between the U.S. and Austria will be improved? The objectives refer to the intermediate accomplishments on the way to the goals. These should be achievable and measurable. Please identify the target audience and how it aligns with program objectives. Program Activities, Methods and Design: Describe the program activities and how they will help achieve the objectives, solve the stated problem and achieve the goal. Proposed Program Schedule: The proposed timeline for the program activities. Include the dates, times, and locations of planned activities and events. Key Personnel: Names, titles, roles and experience/qualifications of key personnel involved in the program. Program Partners: List the names and type of involvement of key partner organizations and sub-awardees, as well as co-sponsors. Program Monitoring and Evaluation Plan: This is an important part of successful grants. Throughout the time-frame of the grant, how will the activities be monitored to ensure they are happening in a timely manner, and how will the program be evaluated to make sure it is meeting the goals of the grant? 4. Budget Justification Narrative: After filling out the SF-424A Budget (above), use a separate file to describe each of the budget expenses in detail. For an evaluation, applicants must submit a detailed and complete project budget including the cost shares borne by co-sponsors and recipients of the grant. The budget statement is logical and sufficiently detailed so that the individual items and how they came about can be traced exactly when the application is examined. Budgets must be calculated in U.S. Dollars. 3. Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM.gov) Required Registrations: All organizations, whether based in the United States or in another country, must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and an active registration with the SAM.gov. A UEI is one of the data elements mandated by Public Law 109-282, the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act (FFATA), for all Federal awards. The 2 CFR 200 requires that sub-grantees obtain a UEI number. Note: The process of obtaining or renewing a SAM.gov registration may take anywhere from 4-8 weeks. Please begin your registration as early as possible. 4. Submission process The project application, including the SF-424 forms, and any other required information listed above must be submitted via email to [email protected]; applications in hard copy/snail mail will not be accepted. Applications for funding cannot be considered until all required information has been received. Applications and project proposals must be in English. If you have any questions about the application process, please contact [email protected]. E. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION 1.Criteria Each application will be evaluated and rated on the basis of the evaluation criteria outlined below. The criteria listed are closely related and are considered as a whole in judging the overall quality of an application. Organizational capacity and record on previous grants: The organization has expertise in its stated field and PDS is confident of its ability to undertake the program. This includes a financial management system and a bank account. Quality and Feasibility of the Program Idea The program idea is well developed, with detail about how program activities will be carried out, and a reasonable implementation timeline. Goals and objectives: Goals and objectives are clearly stated. Embassy priorities: Applicant has clearly described how stated goals are related to and support U.S. Embassy Vienna, Austrias priority areas or target audiences. Budget: The budget justification is detailed, reasonable and realistic, and accounts for all necessary expenses to achieve proposed activities. Monitoring and evaluation plan: The program includes output and outcome indicators and shows how and when those will be measured. Sustainability: Program activities will continue to have positive impact after the end of the program. 2.Review and Selection Process A Grants Review Committee will evaluate all eligible applications. F. FEDERAL AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION 1.Federal Award Notices The grant award or cooperative agreement will be written, signed, awarded, and administered by the Grants Officer. Issuance of this NOFO does not constitute an award commitment on the part of the U.S. government, nor does it commit the U.S. government to pay for costs incurred in the preparation and submission of proposals. Further, the U.S. government reserves the right to reject any or all proposals received. Payment Method: Payments will be made in at least two installments, as needed to carry out the program activities. 2.Administrative and National Policy Requirements Terms and Conditions: Before submitting an application, applicants should review all the terms and conditions and required certifications which will apply to this award, to ensure that they will be able to comply. These include: 2 CFR 200, 2 CFR 600, Certifications and Assurances, and the Department of State Standard Terms and Conditions, all of which are available at: https://www.state.gov/about-us-office-of-the-procurement-executive/. Note the U.S Flag branding and marking requirements in the Standard Terms and Conditions. 3.Reporting Reporting Requirements: The awarding of government grants under the Austrian-American Partnership Fund requires at least a final activity report within 30 days of the completion of the project to be submitted in writing to the Grants Officer. The report(s) should include details about impact on audiences reached, amplification of messages about the project, and any media reporting. G. FEDERAL AWARDING AGENCY CONTACTS If you have any questions about the grant application process, please contact PDS at: [email protected] Note: We do not provide any pre-consultation for application related questions that are addressed in the NOFO. Once an application has been submitted, State Department officials and staff may not discuss this competition with applicants until the entire proposal review process is completed. H. OTHER INFORMATION Alcoholic Beverages: Please note that award funds cannot be used for alcoholic beverages.

This funding opportunity supports projects that foster educational, cultural, and technological collaborations between the U.S. and Qatar, targeting nonprofits, educational institutions, and individuals focused on youth leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

This funding opportunity supports not-for-profit organizations and educational institutions in Ethiopia to develop innovative cultural and exchange programs that strengthen ties between the U.S. and Ethiopia, focusing on themes like economic reform, media literacy, and environmental sustainability.

This grant provides funding for U.S. and Iraqi non-profit organizations and educational institutions to develop cultural and educational programs that strengthen the relationship between the United States and Iraq.

The U.S. Embassy Namibia, Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to carry out a program to focus on Media Literacy and Counter Disinformation activities. PDS Windhoek invites proposals for programs that strengthen cultural ties between the United States and Namibia through cultural and exchange programming that highlights shared values and promotes bilateral cooperation. All programs must include an American cultural element, or connection with American expert/s, organization/s, or institution/s in a specific field that will promote increased understanding of U.S. policy and perspectives. The objective of this specific funding opportunity is to improve media literacy, reduce vulnerability to misinformation and disinformation, and/or raise awareness about the importance of media literacy and fact-checking. Proposed projects will work with an audience aged 18 to 50. Examples of activities in potentially successful proposals include, but are not limited to: Training Namibian journalists, media professionals, and journalism students on fact-checking and verification of credible sources and/or the identification of disinformation and misinformation. Conducting trainings for Namibian professionals in any relevant field that focus on media literacy and community leadership in checking the spread of misinformation and disinformation. Hosting events or trainings that promote the development of innovative technologies or solutions to strengthening media literacy and/or unmasking misinformation/disinformation (e.g., a media literacy hackathon or coding event to develop tools that support easy fact-checking or the identification of disinformation and misinformation).

This funding opportunity provides financial support for alumni of U.S. government exchange programs to implement community-driven projects that address local and global challenges, with a focus on promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.

This grant provides funding to organizations and individuals for projects that strengthen U.S.-Nicaragua ties by promoting understanding of the U.S., enhancing media literacy, fostering economic prosperity, and encouraging safe migration.

The U.S. Embassy Abidjan Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of the U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce that funding is available through its Public Diplomacy Small Grants Program. This is an Annual Program Statement, outlining our funding priorities, the strategic themes we focus on, and the procedures for submitting requests for funding. Please carefully follow all instructions below. Purpose of Small Grants: PDS Abidjan invites proposals for programs that strengthen ties between the U.S. and Cte dIvoire through programming that highlights shared values and promotes bilateral cooperation. All programs must include an American cultural element, or connection with American expert/s, organization/s, or institution/s in a specific field that will promote increased understanding of U.S. policy and perspectives.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for agricultural development projects in developing countries and emerging democracies, focusing on increasing productivity and trade through the monetization of U.S. agricultural commodities.

The Public Diplomacy Section (PD) of the U.S. Embassy in Luxembourg, U.S. Department of State, announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to carry out programs strengthening bilateral ties between the United States and Luxembourg on Bolstering Security and Defense. The U.S. Embassy Luxembourg invites proposals from non-governmental organizations, think tanks, government institutions, academic institutions, and individuals for programs strengthening the bilateral ties between the United States and Luxembourg and supporting Bolstering Security and Defense, including, but not limited to: Programs that raise awareness and increase support for U.S.-Luxembourg defense cooperation, with an emphasis on NATO, defense spending, and defense modernization; Programs to counter disinformation, misinformation, and malign influence as threats to democracy as well as those that promote and improve media literacy in Luxembourg; Programs that raise awareness and support for increased information sharing and cooperation in law enforcement and intelligence, with an emphasis on cyber security and countering ideologically motivated violent extremism; Projects that support addressing global challenges through building strong global alliances, for example through: NATO, the United Nations, and other multi-lateral institutions and forums. All programs must engage Luxembourg audiences. All programs must include a U.S. element or connection with U.S. experts that will promote increased understanding of U.S. policy and perspectives. Any speaker paid with grant funding must hold U.S. citizenship. Please review the complete NOFO on the Funding Opportunities page on our website: https://lu.usembassy.gov/grants-program/ or in the related documents tab on the announcement on grants.gov .

This funding opportunity provides financial support for non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and individuals to engage local communities in cultural activities that raise awareness and promote conservation efforts in the Congo Basin.

This funding opportunity supports U.S. and Italian organizations in creating programs that strengthen cultural ties and promote shared values between the United States and Italy, focusing on democracy, economic prosperity, and countering disinformation.

The U.S. Embassy Port Louis Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations or individuals to submit a Statement of Interest (SOI) to carry out a program (or programs) to promote bilateral relationships between the U.S. and Mauritius and Seychelles. Please carefully read and follow all instructions below. The submission of the SOI is the first step in a two-step process. Applicants must first submit a concise (1500 word) statement of interest designed to clearly communicate program ideas and objectives. This is not a full proposal. The purpose of the SOI process is to allow applicants to submit program ideas for evaluation prior to requiring the development of a full proposal application. Upon a merit review of eligible SOIs, selected applicants will be invited to expand on their program idea(s) by submitting a full proposal application. Full proposals will go through a second merit review before final funding decision are made. Two-round process: In Round 1, applicants submit a concise Statement of Interest (SOI) of no more than 1,500 words that describes the program ideas and their objectives. The Public Diplomacy Section will review SOIs and invite a limited group of applicants to continue in Round 2. In Round 2, applicants expand their ideas into full funding proposals for formal consideration. SOIs may be submitted for consideration through June 1, 2024. Please download the template found here and then submit your Statement of Interest to [email protected]. Successful SOI applicants will be notified via email on or around June 15, 2024. Instructions on the requirements of a full application submission will be provided at that time and full proposals will be due by July 15, 2024. Additional Information at: https://mu.usembassy.gov/education-culture/grants-programs/rsoi-2024/

PAS Paramaribo invites proposals from NGOs, individuals and government educational institutions for programs that contribute to the improvement of social, economic or environmental conditions in Suriname and which further one or more of the priorities listed below. All programs must include a connection with American cultural element(s), expert(s), organization(s) or institution(s) that will promote increased understanding of U.S. policy, culture, and perspectives.Priority Program Areas Strengthening democracy Promoting civic involvement, free and fair elections, or democratic governance at the local or national level in a non-partisan manner.Addressing climate change and environmental education Nurturing efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change and reduce food and water insecurity, particularly among underserved and vulnerable populations.Limiting Corruption - Supporting efforts to counter or prevent corruption in business or government, including efforts to develop greater fiscal transparency, enhance the rule of law, and/or protect intellectual property rights.Supporting a free and expressive media environment Strengthening the professionalism of the media and/or advancing media literacy within the population.Advancing diversity, equality, inclusion, and accessibility for all marginalized communities Addressing issues involving ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, physical disabilities, and/or indigenous and tribal communities.Promoting academic linkages Creating programs or exchanges designed to increase college and university professional linkages between the U.S. and Suriname, especially with community colleges and technical schools.Empowering women Creating programs focused on the mentorship of women entrepreneurs and/or supporting womens increased participation in civil society.Developing Alumni Supporting programs led by, supported by, or involving the Suriname American Alumni Association, its members, or alumni of U.S. exchange programs.Enhancing agricultural production Supporting efforts that advance understanding of modern agricultural practices and expanding entrepreneurship skills with the goal of increasing exports to U.S. and EU markets.Supporting cultural exchange Hosting cultural performances, artistic workshops, trainings, and exhibitions that highlight the deep and ongoing ties between the United States and Suriname and our shared democratic values.

This funding opportunity supports not-for-profit organizations and educational institutions in Fiji, Kiribati, and Tuvalu to create engaging public programs that promote U.S. culture, values, and innovation, particularly for students and young professionals.

This grant provides funding to non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and individuals to promote mutual understanding and collaboration between the United States and Malaysia through projects in areas like regional security, economic relations, and STEM innovation.

A. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The U.S. Embassy Skopje Public Affairs Section (PAS) of the U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce that funding is available through its Public Diplomacy Small Grants Program. This is an Annual Program Statement, outlining our funding priorities, the strategic themes we focus on, and the procedures for submitting requests for funding. Please carefully follow all instructions below. Purpose of Small Grants: PAS Skopje invites proposals for programs that strengthen people-to-people ties between the U.S. and North Macedonia through cultural and exchange programming that highlights shared values and promotes bilateral cooperation. All programs must include an American cultural element, or connection with American expert/s, organization/s, or institution/s in a specific field that will promote increased understanding of U.S. policy and perspectives. Examples of PAS Small Grants Program programs include, but are not limited to: Academic and professional lectures, seminars and speaker programs Artistic and cultural workshops, joint performances and exhibitions Cultural heritage conservation and preservation programs Professional and academic exchanges and programs Programs focused on entrepreneurship and innovation Programs focused on diversity and empowerment of youth and underserved communities Programs focused on democratic processes and values Programs focused on gender issues Programs focused on human and equal rights Programs focused on media literacy Programs focused on strengthening resiliency against disinformation; and malign influence Programs focused on environment protection Programs that support North Macedonias Euro-Atlantic integration process Priority Program Areas: The objectives of the Public Diplomacy Grant Program are to promote positive relations between North Macedonia and the United States; to reinforce shared values; and to connect North Macedonias emerging leaders to the American people. We fund projects that: Help North Macedonias youth build and develop skills to improve their potential through innovative science (especially environmental and health awareness), technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEM) programs, as well as through entrepreneurship programs and vocational training. Focus on educating youth and publics about current environmental issues, including crafting creative solutions to environmental challenges, green energy initiatives and energy conservation, climate change adaptation strategies, as well as action plans to deal with water scarcity exacerbated by climate change and urbanization. Encourage North Macedonias youth to participate in civic life through social entrepreneurship, volunteerism, and community engagement. Strengthen understanding of U.S. values and institutions; highlight US culture, including American Studies, English language teaching/learning, and study in the United States; as well as support diversity through the acceptance of minority groups, including individuals with special needs or handicapping conditions, and other areas of mutual interest. Participants and Audiences: US Mission North Macedonia encourages not only diverse applicants to apply to our grants programs but would also like to see diverse target audiences and trainers. Diversity can be defined by different geographic regions, ethnicities, religious orientations, gender, physical disabilities including visual, hearing, speech, and other physically handicapping conditions. The following types of programs are not eligible for funding: Printing or promotion of books or manuscripts Travel to the United States for professional development Promotion of local arts scenes Projects that are inherently political in nature or that contain the appearance of partisanship/support to individual or single-party electoral campaigns Charitable or development activities Construction programs Programs that support specific religious activities Fund-raising campaigns Lobbying for specific legislation or programs Scientific research Commercial or trade activities Individual travel to conferences and meetings Social welfare projects Programs intended primarily for the growth or institutional development of the organization Ongoing salary costs and office equipment Paying to complete activities that were begun with other funds or Programs that duplicate existing programs

The U.S. Embassy of New Zealand Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations and individuals s to submit applications to carry out projects that will strengthen media capacity, provide media training, and/or provide substantive benefit to media networks in New Zealand and the Pacific by increasing and refining their ability to provide independent, accurate, and fair coverage of topics of importance to the Pacific to their audiences in New Zealand and the Pacific nations. Priority Region: New Zealand and the Pacific. Program Objectives: This funding opportunity aligns with the United States goal to strengthen democratic institutions, protect human rights, and accelerate the fight against disinformation. The second Summit for Democracy affirmed the commitment of the U.S. Government to support free and independent media around the world. Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers. One of the key purposes of the U.S. Department of States Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policys Democratic Roadmap; Building Civic resilience to the Global Digital Information Manipulation Challenge is to recognize that building information integrity can be consistent with freedom of opinion and expression. The Roadmap states, access to fact-based information is essential for citizens to form opinions and exercise their rights, a fundamental principle of democracy. Without access to fair and balanced media coverage, which starts with a resilient and informed media with the capacity to identify and counter disinformation, the democratic values that we share with our neighbors in the Pacific region will be at risk. This Funding Opportunity aims to provide assistance to organizations and/or individuals committed to the ideals of a media free from interference from outside sources of any kind.

The Public Diplomacy Section (PD) of the U.S. Embassy in Luxembourg announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to carry out programs strengthening bilateral ties between the United States and Luxembourg on Remembering our Shared History. The U.S. Embassy Luxembourg invites proposals from non-governmental organizations, think tanks, government institutions, academic institutions, and individuals for programs strengthening the bilateral ties between the United States and Luxembourg and Remembering our Shared History, including, but not limited to: Programs that highlight significant WWII events, untold stories, and any elements of U.S.-Luxembourg collaboration that provide unique context, perspective, and meaning to the long-standing alliance between the Unites States and Luxembourg. Programs focused on youth and youth education to ensure the memory of WWII is not forgotten by the younger generations in Luxembourg. Programs that foster truthful recognition and remembrance of the tragedies of the Second World War and particularly the Holocaust Program activities such as historical/cultural exhibits, film screenings (movies/documentaries) and lecture series, book discussions, various media platforms (broadcast media, social media, etc.) and other types of public outreach campaigns. All programs must engage Luxembourg audiences. All programs must include a U.S. element or connection with U.S. experts that will promote increased understanding of U.S. policy and perspectives. Any speaker paid with grant funding must hold U.S. citizenship. Please review the complete NOFO on the Funding Opportunities page on our website: https://lu.usembassy.gov/grants-program/ or in the related documents tab on the announcement on grants.gov for information on how to submit a Statement of Interest.

ROGRAM DESCRIPTIONThe U.S. Embassy Nairobi, Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of the U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce that funding is available through its Public Diplomacy Small Grants Program. This is an Annual Program Statement, outlining funding priorities, focus themes, and the procedures for submitting requests for funding. Please carefully follow all instructions below.Purpose of Small Grants: PDS Nairobi invites proposals for programs that strengthen ties between the United States and Kenya and promote bilateral cooperation. All programs must advance a U.S. linkage including for example a connection with American expert/s, organization/s, or institution/s in a specific field that will promote increased understanding of U.S. policies, economic models, and perspectives on U.S.-Kenya partnership.Priority Program Areas: Proposals must address one of the following key program areas:1. Economic Prosperity Advances the prosperity of the United States and Kenya through a fair and reciprocal economic partnership, the strengthening of Kenyas business climate, support for its startup ecosystem, clean energy solutions and climate change resiliency, and education that skills the next generation of workers. 2. Democracy and Governance Deepens the bilateral relationship on a broad range of common interests including the respect for human rights, safeguarding civic space, rule of law, public accountability, anti-corruption efforts, shared democratic values, and protection of fundamental freedoms.3. Celebrating 60 Years of U.S.-Kenya Partnership 2024 is the 60th anniversary of U.S.-Kenya ties, a milestone to celebrate as well as build upon. Amplify what the United States and Kenya are accomplishing together across various fields, including but not limited to the trade and investment partnership, climate action and renewable energy, public health advancements, education, shared values, and security cooperation. Participants and Audiences:Kenyans who may be in any of the following categories; Kenyans between the ages of 16 and 35, including students, civil society leaders and social influencers; Business leaders and rising entrepreneurs; Established opinion leaders, including cultural influencers and academic institution leadership.