Grants for Nonprofits - International Development

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces an open competition for organizations interested in submitting applications for projects that support civil society in the Western Balkans to hold governments accountable and transparent by promoting greater public participation with a focus on environmental issues. The United Nations Environmental Programme held a Western Balkans Forum in late 2022 that concluded the region is heavily impacted by climate and pollution issues. Corruption and inconsistent implementation of regulations further exacerbate the situation. These environmental issues may be highly detrimental to communities in these countries, impacting the health of individuals and putting their rights to safe living conditions and access to natural resources at risk. For instance, a 2022 study from the Belgrade Centre for Security Policy cited instances of increased pollution in regions proximate to new development projects, which degraded air quality and local water sources, causing potential health risks to local communities including respiratory infections and autoimmune diseases. Activists have recounted how local politicians use fear of economic crisis to demotivate citizens from speaking out against industrial pollution. The lack of local good governance in tackling environmental challenges has catalyzed public discontent and distrust. There is a need for citizen advocacy to hold local 2 leaders accountable to environmental regulations, and to protect against egregious environmental damage. To address some of these issues and leverage civil society’s activism, DRL/GP is seeking proposals that promote greater public participation and ensure government transparency and accountability. The project will focus on environmental governance processes in Western Balkan countries with high levels of international economic influence. The program aims to: (1) support local communities and/or organizations to mobilize to advance good governance principles and their intersection with local environmental laws and regulations; (2) engage independent media and community members in monitoring and documenting cases of noncompliance with environmental policies; and (3) create a diverse network of reform advocates collaborating to build accountability for implementing current laws and development of rightsrespecting policies.

To implement a project aimed at advancing U.S. foreign policy and national security priorities by supporting initiatives that make decision-making structures and processes in fragile, conflict, or crisis-affected contexts more reflective of and responsive to the needs and perspectives of partner states to ensure strategic trade control systems meet international standards and by engaging on bilateral, regional and multilateral levels with foreign governments to aid in the establishment of independent capabilities to regulate transfers of weapons of mass destruction, WMD-related items, conventional arms, and related dual-use items, and to detect, interdict, investigate, and prosecute illicit transfers of such items.

This notice is subject to availability of funding. A. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION U.S. Embassy Belgrade of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications for the University Partnership Program. Please follow all instructions below. Priority Region: Serbia Program Objectives: The U.S. Embassy works to assist the Serbian people to strengthen democracy, rule of law, and the protection of human rights; help fight brain drain and advance the countrys economic development; promote regional stability and cooperation; cooperate with international partners to combat crime, terrorism, human trafficking, and other global challenges; and make further progress towards Serbias accession into the European Union. We also strive to explain U.S. policies, culture, society, and values to Serbian audiences and deepen ties between our two countries. University Partnership proposals should support these goals while facilitating lasting connections between Serbian and American institutions of higher education. Proposals can involve in-person and/or virtual exchanges for students, faculty, and/or administrators as well as any of the following activities: curriculum development; needs assessments; joint online courses; joint research projects; development of a joint degree program; development of a study abroad program; sharing of best teaching practices and instructional methods; support for participation in academic conferences or student competitions (e.g., moot court, Model U.S. Congress, Model United Nations); establishing an American Studies course or academic program; setting up a center focused on American Studies; and/or establishing or strengthening a career development center or a research and development center. Participants and Audiences: Participants or primary audiences for university partnership proposals should be Serbian and American students, professors/academics, and/or administrators. Depending on focus, projects may have secondary audiences or beneficiaries including media, civil society organizations or wider professional audiences, which you may note in the proposal. If your project idea might involve citizens or any other countries, check D.7 in the full text of the NOFO to understand restrictions on funding. B. FEDERAL AWARD INFORMATION Length of performance period: 6 to 30 months (including the evaluation) Number of awards anticipated: 1-5 awards (dependent on amounts) Award amounts: awards may range from a minimum of $25,000 to a maximum of $300,000. For returning applicants to the University Partnership Program, (previous grantees seeking additional support) awards will be capped at $75,000. Total available funding: $450,000 Type of Funding: FY23/24 Economic Support Funds under the Foreign Assistance Act. Anticipated program start date: Flexible, but not earlier than September 1, 2024. Cost Sharing or Matching: Cost sharing is allowed but not required and will not impact funding decisions. While filling out the application, you will be required to tell us whether you are also receiving funding from other donors for your project. Please be aware, however, that you must be able to carry out all the activities described in your application with the funding you receive, even if the contributions from other donors or other funding sources fail to materialize. C. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION Requesting the Application Package: Application forms required below are available at https://rs.usembassy.gov/grants-programs and in the Related Documents Tab. Content and Form of Application Submission: Please follow all instructions below carefully. Proposals that do not meet the requirements of this announcement or fail to comply with the stated requirements will be ineligible. Content of Application Please ensure: The proposal clearly addresses the goals and objectives of this funding opportunity All documents are in English All budgets are in U.S. dollars All pages are numbered All documents are formatted to 8 x 11 paper, and All Microsoft Word documents are single-spaced, 12 point Calibri font, with a minimum of 1-inch margins. The following documents are required: 1. Mandatory application forms SF-424 (Application for Federal Assistance organizations) SF-424A (Budget Information for Non-Construction programs) SF-424B (Assurances for Non-Construction programs) (note: the SF-424B is only required for individuals and for organizations not registered in SAM.gov) 2. Grant Application Form for FY2024 (Fiscal year 2024). Note: Detailed instructions for filling out the grant application are included with the form. 3. Budget Justification Narrative (Excel Spreadsheet): After filling out the SF-424A Budget (above), use the Excel spreadsheet template to describe and explain each of the budget expenses in detail. See section H. Other Information: Guidelines for Budget Submissions below for further information. 4. Attachments: 1-page CV or resume of key personnel who are proposed for the program Letters of support from program partners describing the roles and responsibilities of each partner If your organization has a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) and includes NICRA charges in the budget, your latest NICRA should be included as a PDF file. Official permission letters, if required for program activities. 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. To be eligible for consideration, every Serbia-based applicant organization must also be registered in the territory of the Republic of Serbia with the Agencija za privredne registre (APR), or the relevant court. Submission Dates and Times: Applications are due no later than May 15, 2024. Funding Restrictions: You may NOT apply for a grant from PDS if your project: Involves partisan political activity; Involves charitable activities and/or the distribution of humanitarian aid; Is a fundraising campaign; Is commercial in nature, i.e., you or a project partner are making money from this project, or the activity supports a current or future business or entrepreneurial venture; Involves the provision of health care services, childcare, food subsidies, or other social services to populations. This funding opportunity aims to support specific projects with objectives which can be achieved within a set timeframe. We will not accept applications which are aimed more broadly at supporting your organizations usual or typical daily activities and operations. Those will be deemed technically ineligible and will not be considered for funding by the review committee. Other Submission Requirements: All application materials must be submitted by email to [email protected] IF PDS does not receive a complete project proposal at the above address by the deadline, it will be considered technically ineligible and will not be considered for funding. Review and Selection Process: A review committee will evaluate all eligible applications. You may be asked to submit additional information and/or a revised budget. Please also be aware that, depending on the availability of funding, PDS might be able to fund only part of the budget that you have requested. Anticipated Announcement and Federal Award Dates: PDS anticipates that final funding decisions will be made by June 30, 2024. D. FEDERAL AWARDING AGENCY CONTACTS If you have any questions about the grant application process, please contact: [email protected]. The full text of the NOFO and the required documents are available at https://rs.usembassy.gov/grants-programs/ and in the Related Documents tab. Information Session. PDS will hold a virtual information session on April 17, 2024, at 15:00 (3 pm) Central European time to discuss this funding opportunity and to answer questions from potential applicants. Please contact PDS at [email protected] for details.

This program provides funding for cultural and educational projects that strengthen ties between the United States and Georgia, particularly benefiting underserved communities and promoting shared values.

To implement a project aimed at advancing U.S. foreign policy and national security priorities by supporting initiatives that make decision-making structures and processes in fragile, conflict, or crisis-affected contexts more reflective of and responsive to the needs and perspectives of partner states to ensure strategic trade control systems meet international standards and by engaging on bilateral, regional and multilateral levels with foreign governments to aid in the establishment of independent capabilities to regulate transfers of weapons of mass destruction, WMD-related items, conventional arms, and related dual-use items, and to detect, interdict, investigate, and prosecute illicit transfers of such items.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The U.S. Embassy Yerevan, of the U.S. Department of State, announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to carry out a program that will enhance the knowledge of English among the target audiences. The initiative will advance the U.S. Government goal of promoting English language learning and enhancing the understanding of U.S. culture and values. The initiative will also advance youth empowerment through skills-development activities for them to become competitive in academic and professional pursuits, and to become active citizens of their country. The initiative will specifically focus on the displaced Armenian youth of Nagorno-Karabakh (NK), aiming to provide them with English language skills and capacity-building activities to facilitate integration and preparation for the workforce. Priority Region: Yerevan and its suburbs (including neighboring communities). Applicants are strongly encouraged to involve beneficiaries from under-privileged/under-served communities. Executive Summary The U.S. Embassy in Armenia advances U.S. interests by helping Armenia succeed as a secure, prosperous, and democratic country, at peace with its neighbors, and more closely integrated with the Euro-Atlantic community. One of U.S. Embassy Yerevan Public Diplomacy Sections objectives is to promote English language learning and to enhance the understanding of U.S. culture and values. The initiative aims to enhance English language proficiency among youth and young adults as well as provide capacity-building activities. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh in acquiring the skills necessary to access educational and employment opportunities, this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is designed to address these challenges by supporting individual capacity-building in English education. Background The U.S. Embassy in Yerevan has invested in projects and activities that have promoted English language learning and offered professional development opportunities to the English teaching community. These initiatives aim to equip educators with modern teaching methodologies, fostering a student-centered learning environment, and facilitating growth through mentorship and expert guidance in the field. The U.S. Embassy has broadened its programming to cater to a more diverse audience, offering support for English language skill development and professional development that enhance employability and foster a global perspective. Beneficiaries of the U.S. missions English programs have expanded to include representatives of media outlets, government communications team members, and young adults from diverse backgrounds. English language proficiency enables beneficiaries to access diverse sources of information, attain better employment opportunities, compete in academic arenas, actively engage in community life, and communicate effectively on an international level in an increasingly globalized world. This initiative will address the emergent needs of young displaced Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh. By equipping them with English language proficiency and essential skills, this project will enhance their prospects for professional development and employment, and contribute to their integration into wider educational and employment networks, fostering resilience and empowerment within this community. This project not only serves the broader objectives of promoting English language learning and fostering cultural understanding, but also addresses the specific needs of displaced Armenians, thereby contributing to their long-term inclusion. Project Goals and Objectives The goal of this program is to expand the community of English language learners among Armenian youth and young adults, and to promote understanding of U.S. culture and democratic values through tailored content. The current project also addresses the need for skills development among youth and young adults from Nagorno Karabakh to contribute to resilience and integration for displaced Armenians resulting from Azerbaijans military offensive in Nagorno Karabakh in September 2023. The project aims to support Armenians from NK to diversify their skills to be able to aspire to more opportunities in education and employment. More details can be found in the attached NOFO

The "Seeking Engagement with Uganda Local Organizations" grant is an initiative by USAID to gather information about potential local partners in Uganda to better understand the local landscape and invite them to participate in stakeholder engagements over the next six months, but it does not promise or commit to any future contracts or services.

To implement a project aimed at advancing U.S. foreign policy and national security priorities outlined in the Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) Act of 2022 (Div. A, P.L. 117-167). The Act established a new International Technology Security and Innovation Fund (ITSI Fund) to to support the development and adoption of secure semiconductors, [and] semiconductor supply chains with the goal to make the global semiconductor supply chain more resilient, diversified, and secure.

The U.S. Embassy Phnom Penh 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, strategic themes we focus on, and the procedures for submitting requests for funding. Please carefully follow all instructions below.Purpose of Small Grants:PDS Phnom Penh invites proposals for programs that strengthen ties between the U.S. and Cambodia through cultural, educational, artistic, and creative programming that highlights U.S.-Cambodian 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, culture, values, and perspectives. Past examples of PDS 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; Professional and academic exchanges and programs; Cultural heritage conservation and preservation programs; Priority Program Areas: Empowering and/or educating youth to spur economic growth. Development of womens entrepreneurship and womens empowerment. Protecting the environment and strengthening resolve regional issues including but not limited to Lower Mekong issues, food security, water, and energy challenges. Programs to advance and promote human rights, including freedom of press and expression. Strengthening the understanding of civic engagement: making use of the interconnections of modern society to strengthen democracy. Projects or programs focusing on preservation, education, or economic growth for/with minority groups in Cambodia.

The English Access Scholarship Program (formerly the English Access Microscholarship Program), established in 2004, is a multifaceted public diplomacy initiative at the forefront of global English language learning and the enhancement of English teaching capacity. With over 200,000 student alumni and over 10,000 teacher alumni in more than 85 countries, the English Access Scholarship Program (Access) is recognized as a high-profile, strategic program that supports U.S. foreign policy objectives, while providing educational opportunities for future leaders globally. Emphasizing critical thinking and employing student-centered and communicative approaches, the program's teaching methodology targets bright, underserved students, primarily aged 13 to 20. The Access Program focuses on four pillars that are integrated into all components of the program: global citizenship themes, 21st-century skills, U.S. culture and values, and communicative English language instruction. The Office of English Language Programs (ECA/A/L), Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs anticipates approximately 15,000 participants, including teachers, students, and alumni. Programming may be in-person, virtual, or hybrid and occur in-country, in the region, and in the United States. ECA launched the Access Program in 2004. The program has expanded to become a foundational element in the Bureaus continuum of exchanges to reach younger and more diverse audiences worldwide. For nearly over a decade, professional development for teachers has also been an integral part of the program. Many Access programs are serving as model classrooms for English teaching in their countries. Only one proposal will be considered by ECA from each applicant organization. In cases where more than one submission 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 from that applicant. Please see the full announcement for additional information.

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.

The Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to carry out a project to strengthen independent media entities and their members as well as local organizations that will support independent media in Central America. This project will assist in conducting better investigations and provide fact-based reporting on crime and corruption through an evolving media landscape to inform populations and hold power-holders accountable, improving transparency and accountability in Central America.

The Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of the U.S. Mission to Pakistan of the U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce an open competition for awards available through the Mission Pakistan PublicDiplomacy Grants Program. This Annual Program Statement (APS) outlines our broad funding priorities,strategic themes, and the procedure for submitting requests for funding. Applications for funding will be accepted until June 30, 2024. Applicants may apply for funding for small grants (between $10,000 and $40,000) or large grants (between $50,000 and $150,000). Preference will be given to applications that make clear their careful consideration of effective use of resources. Please follow carefully allinstructions below and use the grant application document and budget template found on our website.This APS was developed to support projects proposed by U.S. and Pakistani not-for-profit organizations,think tanks, and educational institutions that fulfill the U.S. Mission to Pakistans foreign policy goals andobjectives.

Executive Summary The U.S. Embassy Ashgabat, Turkmenistan announces an open competition to implement a program to operate three (3) American Corners in Turkmenistan in Dashoguz, Mary and Turkmenabat. Other American Corners may be developed at the direction of the Public Diplomacy Section. American Spaces in Turkmenistan is a network of PD-funded cultural centers, which are a global network of over 600 State Department-sponsored cultural centers. The American Spaces in Turkmenistan conduct youth-oriented cultural and experiential learning programs to improve skills in English, STEM, entrepreneurship, and climate change awareness. The primary audience for these programs will be Turkmen youth, including girls and women, school and university students, teachers, young professionals, especially from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, and USG alumni. The award recipient will be responsible for overseeing administrative aspects of the American Spaces program, to include staffing of selected corners, training logistics, and equipment and facility maintenance. The recipient will also assist in implementing American Spaces programming with significant Public Diplomacy Section input and assistance to ensure the programming meets Mission goals and objectives. Potential implementor will also be responsible for planning, executing, closing, and monitoring and evaluation of all the activities and programs conducted at the American Corners. The expected date range for implementation of this project is May 1, 2025 to April 30, 2026. Please follow the instructions below for the application. Background American Spaces are the premier public diplomacy platform of the U.S. Embassy Ashgabat in Turkmenistan that has been strengthening mutual understanding and friendship between the people of Turkmenistan and the United States of America for almost 20 years. American Spaces are located in Ashgabat, Dashoguz, Mary and Turkmenabat and offer English resources and development opportunities to meet interests of diverse audiences, while also serving as gateways for the Turkmen citizens to learn about American society, culture and education. The American Spaces are well known in the community for their regular English-language activities, such as conversation groups with native speakers, workshops with visiting specialists, and regular presentations by Americans on U.S. life and culture. American Spaces also partner with international and local organizations (e.g., the Smithsonian Institution) to conduct highly impactful programs, such as the Academy for Women Entrepreneurship in partnership with Arizona State Universitys School of Global Management, a variety of STEM programs to introduce local youth to web design and app development, as well as book festivals and eco festivals. Project Audiences The primary audiences for American Spaces in Turkmenistan are: a. School and university students b. School and university teachers c. Young professionals, such as current/aspiring entrepreneurs d. Girls and women e. Civil society representatives f. USG programs alumni Project Goal To deepen mutual understanding, foster collaboration and cultivate partnerships between the people of the United States and Turkmenistan through free-of-charge cultural and experiential learning programs conducted at American Corners in all the regions of Turkmenistan: Dashoguz, Mary and Turkmenabat. Project Objectives Objective 1. Oversee and administer American Corners operations within the allocated budget over a 12-month period, demonstrated by implementation of innovative solutions to technical and logistical challenges, maintenance of staffs high professional standards, and cost-efficient maintenance of spaces, while maintaining the modern aesthetic and accessibility standards of American Spaces. The implementer will maintain the American Corners physical space in safe, accessible, and welcoming and inspiring environment that is designed in accordance with modern American Spaces branding recommendations; provide logistical support with procurement, shipping and technical and Internet service to meet the Corners programming needs; and constantly seek opportunities to reduce the cost of rent; hire and retain top talent to work at American Corners, provide professional development to staff; and ensure publicity of Corner offerings and programs via social/print media. The American Spaces standards mandate that all American Corners maintain collections of books, magazines, computer workstations, and an area for programs. All materials at the American Cornersto include internet accessmust be free and open to the public. American Corners may vary in size, but have the following minimum characteristics: Secure location with public access; Minimum size of approximately 100 square meters; Library containing a minimum of 500 English books selected and provided by the U.S. Mission; Program venue to accommodate 20 people; Open and accessible to women and girls; Accessible to people with disabilities; Furniture, such as: o 1520 chairs o 23 reading tables o 58 computer desks o 2 office desks with chair Equipment, such as: o 1 printer o 1 copier o 1 scanner o 1 digital camera o 12 gas heaters as required o 1 air conditioner as required o 510 computer workstations o 58 uninterruptible power supply (UPS) units o 1 laptop o 5-10 iPads o 1 projector screen o 1 sound system (speakers + mic for public programs) o 3D Printer o MakerSpace robotic and technology materials The three existing American Corners in Dashoguz, Mary and Turkmenabat already have the equipment and furniture mentioned above, which will be made available for the new implementing partner. Objective 2. Design and execute a range of diverse programming activities across six core areas of American Spaces (explained below) in alignment with Mission goals, demonstrated by sustained participation and increases in participant turnout. American Spaces operate based on the global standards of the American Spaces program. These standards mandate that every American Corner offer programming in six core areas free of charge for all the participants: 1. English language teaching and learning: Increase English language proficiency and instructional skills of English language learners and English language teachers, particularly for underserved audiences by facilitating a wide range of programs that build the skills of English language teachers and promote English language learning. American Corners provide access to English language speakers and professional development/teacher training resources provided by the State Department. 2. Information about the United States: Increase awareness and understanding of our primary audiences about American history, culture, and society through people-people diplomacy. American Corners also offer collections of English books, videos, newspapers, magazines, photo galleries, and Internet access and ensure these collections remain accurate, up to date, and audience appropriate. 3. Educational advising: Increase the knowledge and skills of high-school students on higher education opportunities in the United States by providing accurate, comprehensive, and up-to-date guidance on applying to U.S. colleges and universities. 4. Alumni engagement: Support continuing engagement with alumni of U.S. exchange programs and cultural enrichment programs, connecting them to local audiences by sharing their U.S. experience and expertise to benefit the local communities. 5. Skills Building: Develop skills and increase capacity of the Turkmen population to meet global challenges, mitigate crises, increase trade, support inclusive and sustainable economic growth and opportunity and strengthen resilience to economic, technological, environmental and other global challenges. American Corners continue offering programs to meet interests of diverse audiences in the regions especially by organizing projects that promote English language, innovation, entrepreneurship, environmental protection, and gender equality in STEM, as well as teach skills such as critical thinking and media literacy, resume writing and job promotion, how to launch entrepreneurial or social development projects, how to use makerspace equipment to conduct projects. 6. Strategic Cultural Programs: Foster people-to-people connections, increase understanding and build respect towards the United States with Turkmenistan audiences through cultural programs, that can include visual and performing arts, film, literature, health, food culture/cuisine, sports, science and technology, volunteerism, makerspace activities, environment, civil society, and entrepreneurship introducing Turkmen audiences to virtually any aspect of culture, from an American perspective. American Corners are encouraged to take advantage of the full scope of cultural programming resources offered by the State Department, including arts, sports, and science envoys; speaker programs; films; the GLOBE program (Global Learning and Observation to Benefit the Environment); Model UN programs; and print and digital offerings developed by the State Department and the Smithsonian Institution. Objective 3. Establish sustained partnerships with local organizations to curate and implement cultural and experiential learning initiatives for local communities, demonstrated by increased number of joint outreach efforts. Examples of those public engagement initiatives can include joint Book Festivals, Cultural Concerts, Eco Festivals, film screenings, and regional and national competitions. Objective 4. Increase participation of primary audiences from the regions in U.S. Embassy programs by facilitating access to exchange programs, training opportunities, and study tours, demonstrated by the increase in qualified applicants from the regions.

The U.S. Department of States Embassy Astana announces an open competition opportunity to implement a project that strengthens Kazakhstans media environment through the provision of legal support to journalists who may need assistance; legal-related training for journalists and media content creators, law students or practitioners; ethics and management training for journalists and media outlets; and educational initiatives targeting law enforcement to raise awareness about the rights of journalists. The project aims to promote professional journalism standards and ensure proper legal protections where needed, while supporting Kazakhstans efforts towards democracy and rule of law. Providing legal assistance is crucial in addressing the prevalent issue of journalists facing harassment and intimidation. This support helps safeguard press freedom, ensuring their ability to report freely and holding accountable those who seek to suppress their work. Priority will be given to projects that focus on and provide evidence of tangible, measurable results. Projects consisting solely of conferences or roundtable discussions, theoretical research or surveys, or the writing or publishing of books, are unlikely to be funded. The United States of America and the Republic of Kazakhstan collaborate extensively on bilateral and regional matters, including support for Kazakhstan's commitment to safeguarding media freedoms and elevating journalistic professionalism. Legal protection is foundational to a safe environment for journalism practice, ensuring the safety of journalists and their ability to fulfill their duties. Equally crucial is the need for journalists and content creators to be well-versed in their rights and responsibilities as outlined by the law. This knowledge extends to law students, practitioners, and law enforcement, fostering a holistic understanding of media law. In addition to safeguarding media freedoms, enhancing ethics and management practices helps ensure a robust and well-functioning media landscape. The objective is to not only level the media playing field for independent outlets, but also to empower them with the skills needed to navigate economic challenges, such as financial generation management and resilience during economic downturns. In line with these goals, the U.S. Embassy seeks to facilitate collaboration between various stakeholders by partnering with a qualified non-profit organization in implementing a program. This initiative aims to provide legal support as well as ethics and management training to journalists, content creators, law students, practitioners, and law enforcement in Kazakhstan, bridging the gap between legal expertise and the media landscape. Project Audience(s): The project should target journalists, media professionals, media content makers, law students and practitioners, and law enforcement agents throughout the country. The project should be able to provide services in Kazakh and Russian. Project Goal: Strengthen press freedom and independence in Kazakhstan by providing access to legal support services and training programs to media and legal professionals. Project Objectives: The program should support objective journalism and ethical journalism standards through the provision of timely, exhaustive, and comprehensive legal consultations to journalists, content creators, law students and practitioners, and media consultants. The program should be able to provide pro-bono legal support in cases when a journalist or a media outlet, requesting such support, were fulfilling their professional duties in accordance with international journalism standards and ethics, as well as the laws and regulations of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The program must include media rights and responsibilities trainings for journalists and content creators, law students and practitioners, and for law enforcement agencies. Proposals should outline strategies and activities aimed at empowering media entities to build strong and sustainable management practices. This may include initiatives focused on financial generation management, strategic planning, and resilience-building measures to navigate economic challenges and enhance the overall managerial competence of independent media organizations. The DREAM Initiative encompasses three key lines of effort to fortify independent media in Kazakhstan: Legal Support, Ethics and Management Training, and Media Transparency. These objectives align with the overarching goal of fostering objective journalism and ethical standards. Project proposals may address one or more of these objectives, or other objectives within the above policy priorities. Objective 1: Improve knowledge and awareness of legal rights and media laws among a minimum of 100 participants through a series of six training sessions. (Ensure at least half of the training sessions are conducted in Kazakh). Topics may include media laws, ethical journalism standards and management practices, journalist legal protections and emerging legal challenges. Objective 2: Advocate for enforcement of legislation that uphold international journalism standards and legal protections by providing media professionals access to timely legal support and consultation services. Objective 3: Improve the ability of independent media organizations, including media executives, editors, and journalists to implement effective management practices through capacity building training focused on organizational management, strategic planning, developing diversified revenue streams, and ethical journalism practices.

The U.S. Embassy Kingston Public Affairs Section (PAS) of the U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce that funding is available through its Public Diplomacy Grants Program. This Annual Program Statement outlines our funding priorities, strategic themes, and the procedures for submitting requests for funding. The deadline is necessary to provide sufficient time to process and award programs in advance of the end of our fiscal year on September 30, 2024. Project proposals should aim to strengthen ties between the United States and Jamaica by highlighting shared values and promoting bilateral cooperation. Proposals must convey an American element, which supports a priority program area (see below) or includes a 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. Priority program areas include: • Climate, Environment, and Energy o For example, addressing the climate crisis, responding to natural disasters, conserving nature, water security, sustainable agriculture, reducing harmful pollutants, energy resilience, and renewable energy. • Combating Financial Scamming and Other Criminal Activity o For example, addressing corruption and money laundering, improving police-public relations, appreciation of the law, teaching digital literacy, detecting financial scamming, and promoting behaviors that increase community safety. • Programs for At-Risk Youth o For example, diversion programs to prevent youth violence, educational programs for critical life skills, and parent/family interventions. • Economic Prosperity o For example, business development, closing skills gaps in local communities, human resources, infrastructure, cybersecurity, resource development, and trade. • Global Health o For example, managing contagious and infectious diseases, public health workforce development, and public health policy and management. • Gender Issues o For example, women’s empowerment, improving outcomes for marginalized male youth, addressing gender-based violence, and LGBTQIA+ issues. • Human Rights and Democracy o For example, addressing fundamental human rights, human trafficking, immigration, refugees, governance, the role of civil society, and freedom of the press/media. Additional details on these policy priorities are available at https://www.state.gov/policy-issues/ Target participants/audiences: • Women and/or youth in underserved communities • Business leaders and entrepreneurs • Community leaders and influencers • Academic and/or cultural institutions • Journalists and/or media organizations The following types of projects are not eligible for funding: • Projects relating to partisan political activity • For-profit activities • Charitable or development activities • Construction projects • Projects that support specific religious activities • Fundraising campaigns • Lobbying for specific legislation or projects • Scientific research • Projects that duplicate existing projects Authorizing legislation, type, and year of funding: Funding authorities applicable are the Smith-Mundt Act and Foreign Assistance Act for FY2024 Public Diplomacy funds.

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). Please see the full announcement for additional information.

The Office of Citizen Exchanges, Sports Diplomacy Division (ECA/PE/C/SU), in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) announces an open competition for the implementation of the FY 2024 Global Sports Mentoring Program (GSMP). 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 conduct two separate month-long professional development mentorship programs and a reciprocal overseas exchange involving approximately 70-80 international and American participants in total (30 emerging leader participants from other countries and 40-50 American mentors). By empowering women and people with disabilities, the GSMP directly supports U.S. foreign policy goals, promotes social inclusion, and elevates the status of marginalized populations. Through the mentorship experience, the GSMP encourages mutually beneficial relationships between American sports executives and leaders in the sports sector overseas. Furthermore, the GSMP engages alumni from previous years through sustained U.S. Embassy relationships, follow-on individual grants to alumni, and monitoring and evaluation. Tapping into the power of public-private partnerships and founded on participant-led business plans, the GSMP positively affects communities at home and abroad and creates a more secure and democratic global playing field for all.The FY 2024 GSMP model has two distinct professional development mentorship exchangesthe Sport for Community GSMP and the espnW GSMP. Set for spring of 2025, the Sport for Community GSMP on disability rights taps into the global attention received by mega-sporting eventsin particular, the Paralympic Games, Special Olympics, and Deaflympicsto connect approximately 15 emerging leader participants with 15 to 20 American mentors in the adaptive sports sector. Sport for Community focuses on increasing the inclusion and full participation of marginalized youth and people with disabilities through sports opportunities worldwide. In fall of 2025, the espnW GSMP on womens empowermenta public-private partnership with espnW (ESPNs sports brand dedicated to women in sports)will connect approximately 15 female change agents with approximately 15 to 20 American mentors, all of whom are dedicated to promoting the rights and empowerment of women and girls around the world through sports. From start to finish, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Title IX serve as core themes. By demonstrating how landmark U.S. legislation promotes democratic values and equality, the GSMP underscores American competitiveness and leadership on an international scale. To keep pace with the burgeoning sport for social change and business trend, the GSMP will also incorporate programmatic elements on how sports philanthropy, marketing, and entrepreneurship play into action plan development and implementation. Please see the full announcement for additional information.

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).Please see full announcement for additional information.

The U.S. Department of States Bureau of Educational Cultural Affairs (ECA) announces the American Music Mentorship Program (AMMP) open competition for one cooperative agreement to support a mentorship residency for music industry professionals from around the world. AMMP is a two-to-three-week U.S.-based mentorship residency for approximately 20 mid-career music industry professionals (mentees) from three to five countries. AMMP is ECAs Global Music Diplomacy Initiatives (GMDI) mentorship program, first announced by U.S. Secretary of State Blinken in September 2023 in response to the PEACE through Music Diplomacy Act. The program seeks to bolster music ecosystems, which play a vital role in fostering diverse and inclusive societies, championing innovation, protecting free expression, promoting economic opportunity, and contributing to the vitality of a civil society. AMMP is facilitated by a partnership between ECA and a private sector partner. With ECA input, the private sector partner will lead the recruitment and selection process and secure American professionals from its membership to serve as mentors, who will volunteer their time. Mentors will be available four days during the in-person program and meet virtually monthly with the mentees for up to a year following the residency. Mentors will provide behind-the-scenes access, bolster the mentees technical skills and build the foundations for lasting professional networks. Mentees will represent careers that support creative talent and build the music industry infrastructure in their home countries and demonstrate English language proficiency. Mentees will be recruited and selected in cooperation with participating U.S. Embassies and Consulates. Areas of specialization, or professional tracks, will be determined each year between the ECA and the private sector partner in cooperation with the award recipient and in line with needs of the participating countries. Mentees will be paired with mentors in the U.S. music industry who are in the same professional track and who bolster mentees professional skills and build networks. Mentees will travel to the United States for a two-to-three-week residency, which will take place in a site(s) that have a music industry presence and/or access to individual experts, from small/niche companies, independent labels, mid-sized companies, and larger industry businesses. During the residency, mentees work with expert workshop facilitators and mentors to receive state-of-the-art-training and industry access. Mentees will participate in professional workshops, small and full group forums, cross-industry collaborations, site visits, and develop post-program action plans. Program activities will provide opportunities for professional networking, career planning, and skills-building that create a holistic professional experience through a robust exchange of ideas and training by utilizing in-person and virtual approaches. Mentors and mentees will meet virtually monthly for approximately one year to develop mentee career plans and ensure sustainable effects of the program. Some of these sessions may occur prior to the in-person residency, but the majority should take place after the mentees have returned to their home countries. The recipient will coordinate and track the virtual component throughout the course of the year-long mentorship. The recipient must manage complex logistics, meet strict timelines, manage the needs of private sector partners and mentors, and promote the program through media and social media and develop a plan to share progress, status, updates and outcomes of program components with relevant stakeholders. Only one proposal will be considered by ECA from each applicant organization. In cases where more than one submission 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 from that applicant. Please see full announcement for additional information.