International Development Grants

SUMMARY: The U.S. Embassyin the PhilippinesPublic Affairs Section (PASPhilippines) of the U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce thatwe are considering proposals for the operational and program development workforthe 2024 American Spaces Philippines Conference. Our funding goals, strategic themes, and processes for submitting grant proposals are all outlined in this notice. Please read carefully and follow all instructions. This notice is subject to the availability of funding. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION PAS Philippines invites individuals, non-profit organizations, and non-government organizations to submit proposals to implement the 2024 American Spaces Philippines Conference. The event is a three-day conference with representatives from American Spaces partner institutions. The intent of this program is to bring together university leaders and American Corner staff members from across the country for a strategic planning session, networking, and capacity-building activities. The Grantee will support the Embassy by fulfilling the logistical, travel, and administrative needs of the conference, as well as providing constructive inputs on the program of the conference. The budget should not be more than $40,000 in total. The successful Grantee must have demonstrable experience in conference management (minimum size of 40 participants), events planning, and high-level customer relations. Grantee must also demonstrate their ability to responsibly manage funds, coordinate logistics, and execute the program plan within the expected timeline. Examples of activities include, but are not limited to: Programming Develop 3 learning sessions that will build the skills of the participants in the areas of project designing, partnership building, and program management. Organize a small exhibit in the venue featuring the projects of the participants Organize a team-building activity for the participants Events Planning Scout and book a conference venue within Luzon, Visayas, or the City of Davao that is accessible to the airport, and major transportation hubs. Coordinate with a hotel for the reservations of all participants, including the processing of required down payments. Prepare financial reports and liquidations of project expenses, including hotel, equipment, food and beverage suppliers, and any relevant subcontractors. Coordinate and arrange a full-board meal for organizers and participants including the accommodation of those with special diets (halal, vegetarian, etc). Arrange overall logistics and ensuring the availability of high-speed wifi, computers, high-resolution web cams, and microphones to accommodate hybrid sessions Organize the plenary hall, any breakout rooms and prepare necessary workshop materials Design, and produce conference kits, and marketing materials such as pull-up banners, event shirts, tokens, tote bags etc. Travel Arrangements Coordinate and book flight itineraries with varying origin destinations. Arrange and book all airport transfer services for participants. Issue plane tickets, room reservations and airport transfer service to each participant. Arrange land transportation for participants as necessary. Organize and pay the travel allowance of the participants. PRIORITY PROGRAM AREAS The program should empower American Spaces partners to increase knowledge on the following priority program areas: Girls/Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Entrepreneurship Innovation and Artificial Intelligence Peace Education Democracy and Human Rights Climate Change and Environmental Protection Participants and Audiences: Target audiences include university presidents from American Spaces-hosting institutions, and library directors and staff. Please note that the following types of programs are NOT eligible for funding: Programs relating to partisan political activity; Charitable, humanitarian, or development activities; Construction programs; Programs that support specific religious activities; Fund-raising campaigns or programs charging a fee for participation; Lobbying for specific legislation or programs; Scientific research; Programs intended primarily for the growth or institutional development of an organization; or Programs that duplicate existing programs; Activities that take place in the United States and its territories; Programs with alcohol, excessive meals, refreshments, or entertainment; and Individual scholarships.

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

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

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement (PM/WRA) is pleased to invite eligible organizations to submit applications for a cooperative agreement to conduct Physical Security and Stockpile Management in the Northern Triangle during fiscal year 2024. Specific goals, objectives, and technical requirements for application packages are detailed below. PM/WRA anticipates awarding up to $5,000,000 under this funding opportunity. PM/WRA may issue multiple awards, however, the sum of all awards will not exceed $5,000,000.

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

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

CSO announces an open competition for organizations interested in submitting applications for programs that support increasing the capacity of a cohort of civil servants within the Republic of Yemen Government (ROYG) to identify priorities for the development of inclusive stabilization plans.

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs (SCA), announces an open competition for organizations interested in submitting applications for Fund Manager for the Strengthening Civil Society and Governance in South Asia Fund (the Fund), established in 2019 to support civil society in strengthening governance transparency and accountability in South Asia. The Fund has provided sub-grants and capacity building support to a cohort of 93 civil society organizations in Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka focused broadly on the following priority areas: 1. Increasing public sector accountability and transparency, especially in infrastructure procurement and public sector spending; 2. Strengthening democratic institutions and practices, including countering disinformation; 3. Supporting emerging areas of concern, such as environmental governance; 4. Promoting civic participation in such efforts.

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

The Juneau Community Foundation’s Douglas-Dornan Foundation Fund offers grants to organizations dedicated to improving the health, education, and welfare of individuals in Southeast Alaska. This aligns with the Foundation's broader mission to support and enhance the quality of life within the community. The grant specifically targets non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations, charitable foundations, childcare institutions, foster parent programs, and early childhood education initiatives within this region, ensuring that support is directed where it can have a direct and meaningful impact on vulnerable populations and community development. The fund's strategic priorities and theory of change are centered on fostering a healthier, more educated, and supportive environment for Southeast Alaska residents. This is achieved through various avenues of support. For instance, the fund can defray costs for tuition, transportation, or lodging for employees of eligible organizations attending professional conferences, training, or educational programs. This investment in professional development aims to enhance the capabilities and knowledge of individuals working directly with beneficiaries, thereby strengthening the organizations themselves and improving service delivery. Furthermore, the fund prioritizes supporting events and special services that enrich the overall quality of life in the community. This includes sponsorships for amateur sports organizations, children’s music, and theater activities, which encourage broad participation and access for all individuals. By funding these types of programs, the Foundation seeks to create vibrant communities, promote well-being, and provide enriching opportunities that might otherwise be unavailable, contributing to a holistic approach to community welfare. Applications for the Douglas-Dornan Foundation Fund are meticulously evaluated to ensure alignment with the fund's objectives and to maximize impact. Key assessment criteria include the quality and relevance of the program or event being supported, the reasonableness and accuracy of the proposed budget, the background and experience of the applicant organization, and the extent of support from other sources. These measures are designed to ensure that grants are awarded to well-conceived initiatives with a high probability of success and demonstrable positive outcomes for the individuals and communities in Southeast Alaska.

Proposed activities must be undertaken in South Sudan in response to the ongoing emergency in Sudan, to include support for emergency response operations for new arrivals at the border in reception and transit centers, and in official refugee sites in South Sudan. Note: PRM will not fund projects in Yida. Because of PRM;apos;s mandate to provide protection, assistance, and sustainable solutions for refugees and victims of conflict, PRM will consider funding only those programs that include a target program participant base of at least 50 percent refugees or refugee returnees. PRM will not consider activities outside of South Sudan for this funding opportunity.

The Washington State Department of Commerce (COMMERCE) is seeking proposals for a project focused on weatherizing multifamily buildings across Washington State. This initiative aims to increase energy efficiency and reduce the energy burden for residents in these buildings. The program aligns with a broader mission of improving community well-being and sustainability by enhancing housing quality and affordability through energy conservation. The grant is designed to expand existing weatherization services or establish new agencies dedicated to this specific purpose, addressing a critical need within the state. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are residents of multifamily buildings throughout Washington State, particularly those in traditionally hard-to-reach markets and underserved regions. The impact goal is to significantly lower energy costs for these residents while simultaneously improving the energy efficiency of their homes. This will lead to more comfortable living conditions and financial relief for households, contributing to overall community resilience. The program also aims to address health and safety remediation in these properties, further enhancing the living environment for beneficiaries. COMMERCE is prioritizing services that focus solely on increasing energy efficiency and lowering the energy burden in multifamily buildings. A key focus is on reaching underserved areas and a broader category of homes that may have been overlooked by previous initiatives. This strategic focus ensures that the grant funding will have the most significant impact where it is needed most, aligning with a theory of change that posits that targeted interventions in housing energy efficiency can lead to measurable improvements in resident welfare and environmental sustainability. The expected outcomes include a measurable increase in the number of weatherized multifamily buildings across the state, resulting in quantifiable reductions in energy consumption and associated costs for residents. The grant specifies a funding period from July 10th, 2024, to June 30th, 2027, with a total budget not to exceed $7,301,514.13. This funding is allocated across West, East, Central, and Coastal North regions of Washington, with specific amounts designated for program operations and administrative awards. Successful contractors will demonstrate experience in weatherizing multifamily buildings and implementing residential energy efficiency measures, ensuring the effective delivery of the program's intended results.

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

The Clayton County Tourism Authority (CCTA) FY24 Tourism Grant Program is designed to bolster visitor and tourism promotional efforts and enhance tourism product development within Clayton County, Georgia. This grant program is administered by the CCTA, utilizing funds derived from a portion of the local hotel/motel tax. The core mission alignment is to foster local economic impact by increasing tourism, specifically through heightened visitation from outside the Clayton County area and by elevating the county's appeal as a destination. The program targets entities such as not-for-profits, governmental, or quasi-governmental organizations that have demonstrated at least one year of fiscal operation and represent ongoing, sustainable operations. Beneficiaries must be located in Clayton County, or if a festival/event, it must take place within the county. The primary impact goal is to increase the number of overnight visitors to Clayton County from outside the area, thereby generating economic benefits and enhancing the county's destination appeal. The grant program prioritizes initiatives that support Clayton County's key tourism drivers, which include African American History and Culture, Diversity and Inclusion, the local and international Culinary Scene, and Film Festivals. Special consideration is given to projects that align with these drivers and the CCTA's strategic priorities and target audiences. Allowable expenses cover the development of new events or major exhibits, out-of-market tourism advertising and marketing (considered 50+ miles outside Clayton County), production costs for media advertising, photography, videography, website and social media development, and professional marketing services, with a cap of 10% on postage expenses. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in tourism and visitor engagement, leading to enhanced local economic impact. The CCTA's strategic approach is to fund marketing, product development, and other qualified expenses that directly contribute to attracting more external visitors. This theory of change posits that by investing in targeted promotional activities and tourism product enhancements, the county will become a more attractive destination, resulting in greater visitation and sustained economic growth. Applicants are expected to demonstrate the ability to execute their projects and provide a sponsorship benefits package equivalent to the grant funds received, ensuring a reciprocal benefit for the CCTA.

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) announces an open competition for organizations interested in eliminating labor abuses and conditions of forced labor connected to cyber scam operations in Southeast Asia.

TOPIC 1: Equal Rights for Marginalized Communities Background: Projects under this funding opportunity should support the efforts of empowering marginalized communities, which include groups that have been traditionally discriminated against because of their identity (race, nationality, gender and gender identity, religious affiliation, disability and socioeconomic status, marital status, and ethnicity) or are particularly vulnerable to marginalization. Competitive projects will clearly identify the challenges facing a marginalized group and sustainable efforts to help advocate for, secure, or exercise their rights. Project Goal: Empower marginalized and vulnerable communities to exercise their human rights by increasing the capacity of civil society and independent media organizations to implement prevention, education, and response efforts in combatting GBV and DV. Project Audience(s): The primary target audience for these projects should be men and women from religiously or socially conservative communities; youth and emerging leaders (14-35 years old); spouses or families of labor migrants; families, government bodies; civil society or advocacy groups; and/or independent media. Projects that support other well-defined marginalized groups and/or with a nexus to family members of radicalized individuals will also be considered. Project Objectives: Each project should achieve one or more of the following objectives: 1. Increase the ability of civil society organizations and advocacy groups to implement and advocate for initiatives combatting GBV and DV through capacity building training. Training topics may include but are not limited to advocacy campaign planning, digital communication tools, messaging best practices, and media engagement strategies. 2. Raise awareness among the Tajik general public of the prevalence, impacts, and consequences of GBV and DV, or discrimination of other marginalized communities, within Tajik society in culturally sensitive and appropriate ways. 3. Facilitate collaboration between civil society organizations, independent media firms and the government bodies to identify and address gaps in existing laws and policies related to GBV/DV prevention or other forms of discrimination through policy dialogues and roundtable discussions. Examples of activities include but are not limited to: Enlisting men as allies in an information campaign to dismantle harmful, violent behavior, and raise awareness among vulnerable women about laws concerning early marriage, domestic abuse, harassment, divorce, alimony, and other civil rights related to women in the family. Conducting educational/outreach/raising awareness activities on the topics related to DV, human trafficking, gender equality, laws related to early marriage, harassment, divorce, and other human rights violation. TOPIC 2: Enabling Environment for Media and the Free Flow of Information Background Independent journalists in Tajikistan face certain career difficulties. These include incomplete or outdated training, lack of prospects outside of state-sponsored media sources, andfor early career journalistslack of experience in telling a story or creating informative, accurate, reliable content. As circulation and revenues from traditional media continue to fall, audiences and journalists increasingly turn to social media for information and profit, but few know how to effectively produce content for this medium that can compete with misinformation, propaganda, and extremist content. Those who do have a better understanding of the techniques and craft of digital production can find themselves chasing audiences with populist topics that may lack journalistic content or integrity. Additionally, many who want to pursue a career in journalism are unable to support themselves and their families financially or are not able to express themselves freely. Project Goal: To contribute to press freedom, the dissemination of accurate information, and the safeguarding journalists including citizen journalist rights by increasing the capacity of journalists and media professionals to produce quality and accurate content that counters misinformation, disinformation, and propaganda. Project Audience(s): Early to mid-career professional journalists, bloggers, social media influencers, and media experts in Tajikistan. Projects to promote and defend media independence and freedom of expression could include media organizations, advocacy groups, managers/editors of media outlets and other influential voices. Project Objectives: Each project should achieve one or more of the following objectives: 1. Strengthen the ability of media associations and organizations to adopt measures that protect their employees and affiliated media professionals from censorship or cyber threats such as hacking, phishing attempts, and website defacement. 2. Equip media associations and organizations with the ability to develop and implement sustainable funding models or revenue strategies that ensure their survival and long-term viability. 3. Improve the reporting of journalists, citizen journalists, bloggers, social media influencers, and other information professionals with regards to ethical reporting practices, investigative journalism, and the use of data analysis tools. 4. Increase media professionals knowledge and awareness about the prevalence and common tactics used in the spread of misinformation, including but not limited to the widespread use of headlines and manipulated content. Examples of activities include but are not limited to: Inviting U.S. or other subject matter experts to train Tajik media professionals and/or advocacy organizations or offer peer to peer mentoring programs. Training Tajik journalists, editors, and media professionals in fact-checking, confirming sources, authenticating images, and identifying bots and AI-produced media. Offering training for bloggers, social media influencers, or amateur citizen journalists with a U.S. expert or other subject matter expert in creating documentary stories for digital media; this could include audio or podcasted stories, short films, or articles that cover issues of local or public interest. Consulting for Tajik media outlets to understand how to monetize their content to become economically sustainable. TOPIC 3: Countering Violent Extremism Background Tajik youth are increasingly radicalized through messages they receive through social media and messenger apps where radical voices are often more active, organized, and better funded than competing voices that advocate tolerance and non-violence. Economically disadvantaged and marginalized youth are most susceptible to radicalization often look to celebrities, athletes, and online imams for guidance over their local community leaders. Project Goal: To provide positive and constructive alternatives to those most at-risk of recruitment into extremist groups by increasing government and/or civil society capacity and engagement in this sphere. Project Audience(s): The primary target audiences are those at-risk of recruitment (Tajik males (ages 15-35) living in rural Tajikistan and Russia, including labor migrants, who have received limited formal education), civil society organizations and government bodies working on countering violent extremism, and respected and popular figures in society who are considered credible voices by those at-risk (religious leaders, teachers, influencers). Project Objectives: Each project should achieve one or more of the following objectives: 1. Raise awareness of target communities and at-risk individuals on the prevalence of violent extremism and recruitment techniques through educational or training initiatives. 2. Equip target communities and individuals at-risk of recruitment into extremist groups with vocational and job search skills for the local job market, focusing on sectors with growth potential. Examples of activities include but are not limited to: Organize summer camps where at-risk youth learn goal setting, soft-skills, and vocational skills/job training, and participate in team building activities, learn about healthy conflict resolution, increase their emotional intelligence, and learn how to tolerate diversity in society. Train at least 10 well-known Tajik athletes (particularly mixed martial artists, boxers, wrestlers, bodybuilders, and football players) or other influential and credible voices to those at-risk (who have a wide following on social media) on the consequences of violent extremism and how to be effective public speakers on the topic. Topic 4: Low Emissions Development Planning for Energy Background: Climate change poses a serious threat to all aspects of Tajikistans society. As the climate warms and natural disasters become more frequent, segments of Tajikistans population that are already vulnerable to economic shocks will become more dependent on the support of civil society and the government to survive. Climate change threatens agriculture and energy sectors through the melting of glaciers and more variable rainfall while also harming the populations health through increased air pollution. Tajikistans reliance on hydropower can serve as a positive example for a world transitioning to renewable sources of energy, but hydropower is also threatened by climate change, as it is highly dependent on glacial melt. Glaciers are receding in Tajikistan at an alarming rate, thus reducing water levels in the reservoirs that power the hydropower plants. Reduced water from glaciers and changing rainfall patterns not only threatens Tajikistans energy security, but also agriculture, and thus has the potential to affect all aspects of society, leading to food insecurity and economic problems. While many parts of Tajikistan have installed micro-hydropower stations, solar power panels are less well-known and utilized. Continued reliance on coal power and polluting industries causes Dushanbe to have the worst levels of air pollution in Central Asia. Project Goal: Support national and sub-national frameworks for low-emissions development by increasing the use of renewable and sustainable energy sources in Tajikistan. Project Audience(s): The primary target audience for these projects should be national and subnational government organizations, civil society, media consumers and outlets, young entrepreneurs, and other well-defined key audiences. Project Objectives: Each project should achieve one or more of the following objectives: 1. Build expertise and capacity in government, private sector, and civil society organizations to analyze emissions sources, set emission reduction targets, and develop mitigation plans through the use of renewable and sustainable energy sources in Tajikistan. 2. Increase collaboration between local, state, and civil society actors/stakeholders to develop practical solutions to combat climate change, advocate for environmental protection legislation, and/or help Tajikistan meet its Global Methane Pledge. Examples of activities include but are not limited to: Conduct workshops, trainings, and/or exchanges to reach the project objectives. This could include hackathons or pitch competitions for young entrepreneurs or those working in related fields (such as data analytics, tech, etc.). Awareness Campaigns promote awareness of emissions and air quality through social and traditional media, produce short video clips for social media and/or TV about environmental issues. Install air quality monitors, test water quality, or improve local capability to conduct data collection, analysis, and reporting on emissions. Organize camps and ongoing actions that teach participants about the environment, promote reforestation initiatives, and/or increase appreciation for nature, including the need for low-emissions development practices.

This funding opportunity is designed to support organizations working to improve health services and outcomes for underserved and vulnerable populations in the Philippines, focusing on areas like tuberculosis, family planning, and HIV/AIDS.

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

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

The Department of States Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations (CSO) aims to support a program to empower Pacific Island Countries (PICs) to identify areas of possible economic coercion or corruption and create strategies to prevent foreign influence from negatively impacting their ability to make sovereign decisions and to build their resilience to such influence. This program will provide regional expertise, background topical research and advice on coordinating a regional or national tabletop exercise or exercises (TTX) for the PICs.