Grants for Public and State controlled institutions of higher education - International Development

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces an open competition for organizations interested in strengthening the labor rights, protections, and conditions of decent work for migrant domestic workers in Malaysia.

To implement a project aimed at advancing U.S. foreign policy and national security priorities by supporting initiatives that is 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.

The U.S. Embassy Algiers 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 Algiers invites proposals for programs that strengthen cultural ties between the U.S. and Algeria 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; English language programs. Priority Program Areas: English language and research exchange: proposals that enhance the Algerian publics understanding of U.S. culture, values, history, society, and policies through building English language capacity and/or expanding education and research exchange opportunities in both public and private institutions. Countering mis- and dis-information: proposals that increase understanding of mis- and dis-information and strengthen media, citizenry, and civil society capacity to promote democratic processes and active civil engagement of the Algerian people and serve as a link to government resources and services for the people. Entrepreneurship: proposals that strengthen the entrepreneurship ecosystem, particularly those that increase opportunities and support for minority and women participation in the workforce.Priority Participants and Audiences:Youth: Algerian youth ages 12-30, particularly those from minority groups or underserved areas. Press and media: public and private traditional media outlets, influencers, and bloggers. Creators (e.g., artists, entrepreneurs): Algerian creators ages 25-45, particularly those from minority groups or underserved areas and/or those who work on building civil society or climate friendly/sustainable projects. The following types of programs are NOT eligible for funding: Programs relating to partisan political activity; Charitable or development activities; Construction programs; Programs that support specific religious activities; Fund-raising campaigns; Lobbying for specific legislation or programs; Scientific research; Programs intended primarily for the growth or institutional development of the organization; or Programs that duplicate existing programs. Authorizing legislation, type, and year of funding: Smith-Mundt FY2024 Public Diplomacy fundingPlease go to the link description to see full instructions and links to download application forms: https://dz.usembassy.gov/funding-opportunities_2024/.

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 increase protections against gender-based violence for marginalized communities in Kosovo. Gender-based violence (GBV) is a global issue that affects one in three women in their lifetime. According to the 2022 U.S. Department of State’s Human Rights Report for Kosovo, a significant human rights issue in Kosovo included the lack of investigation of and accountability for GBV, including domestic or intimate partner violence, sexual violence, and other forms of such violence. Another issue of concern was crimes involving violence or threats of violence targeting ethnic minorities or other marginalized communities. There are also critical gaps in the systematic documentation and monitoring of the prevalence of GBV in the country. Furthermore, GBV survivors often lack awareness of their rights and access to support services. There are also social stigmas in reporting GBV coupled with cultural norms that try to keep partners together. To respond to these challenges, DRL is seeking proposals that work towards the Bureau’s goal of providing access to justice for individuals experiencing GBV, abuse, and exploitation in 2 Kosovo. The program should take an intersectional approach by considering particular issues facing LGBTQI+ women, women with disabilities, low-income women, women in public-facing positions, women from racial, religious, and ethnic minority communities, and other intersections are differently impacted by GBV. The program objectives are: 1) increasing public awareness of the various forms of GBV (i.e. psychological, physical, emotional, economic, etc.) as well as relevant laws and available protections; 2) strengthening collaboration among diverse stakeholders in all communities on rights-based, trauma-informed, and survivor-centered approaches to prevent and address GBV; and 3) providing survivor-centered support, including the provision of direct service assistance. Program activities may include but are not limited to: • Developing and implementing targeted awareness campaigns and community engagement initiatives regarding the different forms of GBV and available protections under current laws; • Strengthening the financial, technical and/or organizational capacity of local organizations in providing effective and survivor-centered support services, including, but not limited to, legal, psycho-social, and/or medical assistance; • Enhancing coordination among relevant stakeholders, including law enforcement, healthcare providers, and social services to improve GBV response mechanisms, including training direct service providers on how to engage with survivors; and • Conducting research and assessments to better understand the prevalence and dynamics of GBV in the country and inform evidence-based interventions.

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.

To implement a project aimed at advancing U.S. foreign policy and national security priorities by supporting initiatives that ensure partner states 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.

The U.S. Embassy Port Moresby Public Affairs Section (PAS) of the U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce the availability of funding through its Public Diplomacy Small Grants Program. This Annual Program Statement outlines our funding priorities, strategic themes, and procedures for submitting funding requests. Please carefully follow all instructions below. Purpose of Small Grants: PAS Port Moresby invites proposals for programs that advance shared goals of the U.S. and Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu. Programs should promote strategic objectives of our countries and meet Mission goals, incorporating an American cultural element or connection with American experts, organizations, or institutions. These programs should focus on strengthening economic, social, and environmental conditions in Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and/or Vanuatu. Total Amount Available: $500,000 subject to funding availability. Maximum for Each Award: Local organizations: $24,000, International: $250,000

The National Park Service Species Inventories Program (https://www.nps.gov/im/species-inventories.htm) funds projects that address specific management actions underway or planned at a park and the timeline for these projects typically is 12-18 months, resulting in a standard set of deliverables including a report. Four parks in the southeastern United States need an inventory of bat species occurrence (presence/absence) particularly of tricolored bats and their roost site locations and foraging habitat. The parks are Canaveral National Seashore, Fort Matanzas National Monument, Cumberland Island National Seashore and Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve. Each park would like to understand bat presence/absence in natural habitat and selected structures. They anticipate a sample set of at least five sites at each park could be sufficient to provide insights to their management needs. Our project development workflows involve engaging park managers to clarify their needs. Once an agreement is in place, we coordinate project calls and assist with deliverables and product reviews.

The Embassy of the United States of America, New Delhi, announces an open competition to implement a program to promote equal access for LGBTQI+ communities by strengthening leadership capacity. This program is built upon the foundation of promoting inclusivity, equality, and accessibility of government services for the trans and intersex communities, recognizing their unique challenges in accessing education, healthcare, employment, and legal recourse against discrimination. Through a cascading 'train the trainer' model, this initiative aims to empower leaders within these communities to disseminate critical information and skills, creating a ripple effect of increased community engagement and awareness that will benefit India and the United States through improved health, education, economic strength, justice, and equality.Project goal is to promote the democratic value of equal access for all peoples, including minorities and marginalized groups, this project aims to build the capacity of trans and intersex community leaders in India, enabling them to effectively access, utilize, and advocate for government services and rights. Utilizing a peer education model, the project will create a sustainable model that empowers the trans and intersex communities from within, fostering resilience, awareness, and inclusivity.(Please refer to the full announcement available under 'related documents' tab)

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/

A project to encourage the development and dissemination of a global credential and related credentialing or certification program based on international standards for substance use professionals. Drug use disorders extensively harm health, including mental health, safety, economic well-being, fuel organized crime, and negatively impact political, social, and economic stability. Many governments as well as individual drug demand reduction professionals provide services but have little experience and few methods to determine if those programs or their efforts are effective, evidence-based, and meeting international standards or their own program goals. To encourage and document the improvement of the prevention, treatment, and recovery services, the workforce requires training to an agreed international standard and then an agreed global credential to ensure that the substance use disorder workforce is performing to that standard. Project Vision: Drug demand reduction is the field of counternarcotics that recognizes that an epidemic only ends when we reduce the number of new cases. Through a well-trained, credentialed, and enthusiastic professional workforce in the combined fields of prevention, treatment, and recovery support, we will reduce the number of those suffering from substance use disorder globally and provide a social framework that supports recovery and ongoing prevention of substance use disorders. Project Goal(s) and Objectives: Professionals that work in the drug demand reduction field including prevention, treatment, and recovery support services come from a variety of academic and non-academic backgrounds. Given the sensitive personal, political, and cultural nature of substance use disorder, it is critical to ensure that those entrusted with positions in these areas can be readily identified as having the skills, experience, and understandings of the international standards and the implementation of those standards as they work. While some nations have their own processes for testing and certification, most do not. Poor services, especially those that violate human rights, in any country negatively impact the substance use disorder field. This negative impact has far-reaching consequences globally based on historical misunderstandings of the nature of substance use disorder. For these reasons, we seek to foster a climate where training and expertise are recognized and required for participation as a professional in the practice of prevention, treatment, and recovery support services. Credentialing should also be encouraged as many working in this field work as volunteers or are working in related fields such as education or youth services. The overall goal of this project is to promote and develop the framework for the credentialing or certification of professionals in this field, in order to improve overall care of persons with substance use disorders, similar to other medical professionals. Through the development of an international credential secured through standardized examination, the project will also work to decrease the stigma associated with work 5 | Page related to substance use disorders. All competencies and testing should promote and encompass those international standards developed under the auspices of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), which have been accepted globally.

The U.S. Embassy is unable to provide individual feedback on non-selected Statements of Interest. A public presentation with general feedback will be offered. The date and time will be announced on the Embassy Facebook. A. PROGRAM DECRIPTION The U.S. Embassy Cotonou Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of the U.S. Department of State announces a Request for Statements of Interest (RSOI) from organizations interested in applying for funding for program proposals that strengthen ties between the peoples of the United States and Benin through cultural and exchange programming that highlights shared values and promotes bilateral cooperation. PDS invites organizations interested in potential funding to submit SOI applications outlining program concepts that reflect this goal. Please carefully follow all instructions below. The submission of a SOI is the first step in a two-part process. Applicants must first submit a SOI, which is a concise, one-to-two-page concept note (in English) designed to clearly communicate a program idea and its objectives before the development of a full proposal application. The purpose of the SOI process is to allow applicants the opportunity to submit program ideas for PDS to evaluate prior to requiring the development of full proposal applications. Upon review of eligible SOIs, PDS will invite selected applicants to expand their ideas into full proposal applications. Purpose: PDS Cotonou invites SOIs for programs that strengthen ties between the people of the United States and the people of Benin through cultural and exchange programming that highlights shared values and promotes bilateral cooperation. All programs must include an American cultural element, or 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. Examples of PDS-funded 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; Experiential learning activities (e.g. Model UN, Model Government). Priority Program Objectives and Audiences Project proposals submitted through this Annual Program Statement (APS) should address one of the following Priority Program Objectives: Vulnerable Groups Empowerment: Activities that address poverty and vulnerability in the communities and contribute to build resilience and social cohesion or/and promote the rights of members of marginalized groups including women and girls, religious and ethnic minority groups and other community at risk (e.g. Capacity building on countering Violent Extremist Organizations VEOs disinformation and recruitment). Target audiences include: youth and young adults active in their communities, religious leaders, community members in the North. (One to two awards anticipated, maximum $10,000 each). Investigative Journalism: Activities that link Beninese journalists to American journalists or media institutions, and/or empower community radios with best practices to handle an adversarial debate, and/or develop tools and skills to combat myths and disinformation and to verify information before sharing with the public in order to strengthen free press and journalism as an institution in Benin. Target audience: community radios, mid-career journalists. (One to two awards anticipated, maximum $15,000 each). U.S.-Benin Partnership: Activities featuring popular American and/or Beninese artists, musicians, cultural figures, and other influencers in order to promote a deeper understanding of the United States long support for improving trade and prosperity in Benin, as well as habits that lead to healthier and more prosperous lives (e.g. promoting U.S.-Benin trade with linkage to AGOA). Target audiences include: women entrepreneurs who specialize in handicrafts, youth and young adults who use social media or listen to radio as their primary source of information; and/or educated urban adults unaware of U.S. initiatives to support Benins development. (One to two awards anticipated, maximum $25,000 each). Skills for Success: Activities to promote STEM, learning American English, especially through soft skills (such as resume writing, digital communications, basic financial literacy, public speaking, entrepreneurial skills) and digital literacy, drawing on American and Beninese examples, in order to encourage successful participation in the global economy. Applicants are strongly encouraged to partner with English Clubs, American Spaces, or U.S. exchange program alumni to conduct these activities. Target audiences include: underemployed and unemployed youth who will soon complete or have completed formal education; female microentrepreneurs; and/or graduate/undergraduate students in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math with a strong interest in improving their English or pursuing graduate study in the United States. (One to three awards anticipated, $15,000 each). The following types of programs are not eligible for funding: Programs relating to partisan political activity; For-profit programs Charitable or development activities; Construction programs; Programs that support specific religious activities; Fund-raising campaigns; Lobbying for specific legislation or programs; Scientific research; Programs intended primarily for the growth or institutional development of the organization; or Programs that duplicate existing programs. Authorizing legislation, type and year of funding: The Statutory Authority for this program is the Smith-Mundt Act or the Fulbright-Hays Act. The source of funding is FY2024 Public Diplomacy or Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs funds, dependent on the type of program. B. FEDERAL AWARD INFORMATION Length of performance period: 6 to 12 months Number of awards anticipated: varies (dependent on amounts) Award amounts: awards may range from a minimum of $5,000 to a maximum of $25,000 Total available funding: $145,000 (Anticipated and Subject to Availability of Funds) Type of Funding: Fiscal Year 2024 Public Diplomacy Funding and/or Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs Funding Anticipated program start date: Varies Funding Instrument Type: Grant, Fixed Amount Award, Individual Award, or Cooperative Agreement. Cooperative agreements and some FAAs are different from grants in that PDS staff are more actively involved in the grant implementation (Substantial Involvement). Program Performance Period: Proposed programs should be completed in 12 months or less. PDS may entertain applications for continuation grants funded under these awards beyond the initial budget period on a non-competitive basis subject to availability of funds, satisfactory progress of the program, and a determination that continued funding would be in the best interest of the U.S. Department of State. This notice is subject to availability of funds. C. ELIGILIBITY INFORMATION Other Eligibility Requirements Applicants are only allowed to submit one proposal per organization. If more than one proposal is submitted from an organization, all proposals from that institution will be considered ineligible for funding. To be eligible to receive an award, all organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) issued via www.SAM.gov as well as a valid and active registration in the System for Award Management (SAM) www.SAM.gov. Individuals are not required to have a UEI or be registered in SAM.gov. D. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION The U.S. Embassy Cotonou Public Diplomacy Section will accept proposals through May 30, 2024. A grants committee including U.S. Embassy employees will review eligible applications in June 2024. All application materials must be submitted by email to [email protected] All Statements of Interest SOI applications should ensure that the following requirements are met: Please follow all instructions below carefully. SOIs 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 SOI 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 document is required: Program Statement (not to exceed 2 pages in Microsoft Word) that includes: A table listing: Name of the organization; The target country/countries; The total amount of funding requested from PD Cotonou, total amount of cost-share (if any), and total program amount (PD funds + cost-share); and, Program length; A synopsis of the program, including a brief statement on how the program will have a demonstrated impact and engage relevant stakeholders, as well as the American element; A concise breakdown explicitly identifying the programs objectives and the activities and expected results that contribute to each objective; and, A brief description of the applicant(s) that demonstrates the applicant(s) expertise and capacity to implement the program and manage a U.S. government award. The deadline for submission of SOIs is May 30, 2024. An organization may submit no more than one SOI. E. APPLICATION REVIEW CRITERIA 1. Quality of Program Idea: Short narrative that outlines the proposed program, including program objectives and anticipated impact. The SOI should explain why the proposed program is needed. 2. Program Planning: A description of how the program is expected to work to solve the stated problem and achieve the objectives. A proposed timeline for the program activities should include the dates, times, and locations of planned activities and events. 3. Ability to Achieve Objectives/Institutional Capacity: A demonstration of the organizations or individuals expertise and previous experience in administering programs. 4. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility: Clearly stated objectives for recruiting and fully including participants from historically underserved communities in program activities, and/or including perspectives from historically underserved communities in the United States. A Grants Review Committee will evaluate all eligible applications. SOI applicants will be notified of the decision to present a full submission within 30 days of each submission deadline. Instructions on the requirements of a full application submission will be provided at that time.

The U.S. Embassy Baghdad Public Diplomacy Section (PD Section), on behalf of U.S. Mission Iraq, 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. Applications for programs are accepted on a rolling basis until the deadline of September 1, 2024. A grant review committee will review outstanding applications on a rolling basis. This Notice of Funding Opportunity covers the whole of Iraq, to include the Iraqi Kurdistan Region (IKR). Please carefully follow all instructions attached. Purpose of Small Grants: The Embassy PD Section invites proposals for programs that strengthen cultural ties between the United States and Iraq 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 Projects include, but are not limited to: Academic and professional lectures, seminars, and speaker programs. Youth leadership programs. Professional and academic exchanges and non-research projects. Entrepreneurship and innovation in technological or other fields. Priority Programming Areas: Strengthening Governance, Democracy, and the Rule of Law Strengthening Civil Society and Promoting Civic Engagement Enhancing Professionalism in the Media Combatting Disinformation Countering Violent Extremism Promoting Innovation and Entrepreneurship Empowering Women, Youth, or Religious and Ethnic Minorities Fostering U.S.-Iraqi Cultural Ties Protecting and Preserving Iraqi Cultural Heritage

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.

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

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 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.