Federal Education Grants

The Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) Regional Fund to Expand Inclusive Access to Quality Basic Education (henceforth the activity) will be a five-year cooperative agreement with a total estimated amount of up to $25,000,000 from USAID, with the expectation of other non-USAID funding to be obtained to support the objectives. The primary goal of the activity expanded inclusive access to quality basic education for marginalized and vulnerable learners sustained over time.

Each funding opportunity description is a synopsis of information in the Federal Register application notice. For specific information about eligibility, please see the official application notice. The official version of this document is the document published in the Federal Register. Free Internet access to the official edition of the Federal Register and the Code of Federal Regulations is available on GPO Access at: http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/index.html. Please review the official application notice for pre-application and application requirements, application submission information, performance measures, priorities and program contact information. For the addresses for obtaining and submitting an application, please refer to our Revised Common Instructions for Applicants to Department of Education Discretionary Grant Programs, published in the Federal Register on December 7, 2022. Purpose of Program: The purpose of the SSS Program is to increase the number of disadvantaged students, including low-income college students, first-generation college students, and college students with disabilities, who successfully complete a program of study at the postsecondary level. The support services that are provided should increase the retention and graduation rates for these categories of students and facilitate their transfer from two-year to four-year colleges and universities. The support services should also foster an institutional climate that supports the success of students who are limited English proficient, students from groups that are historically underrepresented in postsecondary education, students with disabilities, students who are homeless children and youths, students who are in foster care or are aging out of the foster care system, and other disconnected students. Student support services should also improve the financial and economic literacy of students. Assistance Listing Number (ALN) 84.042A.

The Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of the U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi is pleased to announce an open competition for the Georgian TVET Institutions to submit applications to the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Support Program 2024. Interested applicants should submit proposals to [email protected] by July 1, 2024, 18:00. A. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Background: Georgias Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) reforms are aimed at supporting socio-economic development, poverty reduction, and developing human capital to meet the needs of the labor market. Thus far, reform has primarily focused on identifying labor force needs and reducing the mismatch between supply and demand, to reduce overall unemployment and increase the employment rates of TVET graduates. Self-employment (mainly underemployment in subsistence agriculture) and high urban unemployment remain major economic challenges. The gender imbalance in vocational education is a significant challenge to the development of an inclusive TVET system and a barrier to womens labor force participation. Community or family beliefs undermine the potential role of women in contributing to sustainable and productive livelihoods. Gender stereotypes about the kinds of work women and men should do limit students from pursuing satisfying careers in non-traditional areas. Negative gender norms and beliefs hold back girls and women from applying for traditionally male-dominated trades in lieu of female-dominated trades, which may not necessarily lead to profitable work. We face the same problem with female-dominated fields where negative gender norms are affecting boys and mens decisions to follow some specific career paths. In general, gender-specific differences are most pronounced in the education, health, and welfare disciplines, which are clearly dominated by women. In contrast, men dominate in engineering, manufacturing, construction, and services (Geostat, 2018). Culturally, a negative stigma affiliated with TVET harkening back to the Soviet Union, has become a significant barrier for the much-needed program. TVET is not considered a desired or first-rate career path. There is a prevailing belief that TVET qualifies graduates for low status, manual, and poorly paid jobs. Employers do not trust vocational qualifications. Vocational counselling and career planning services are an essential element in the countrys education and training system. Although some reforms have been started towards this direction, still counselling and guidance remain at a basic level, mainly due to insufficient staffing. As a result, students in primary and secondary education, young people and parents making important life decisions do not always have enough information on the available educational and occupational choices and they often have to make uninformed decisions. Weak career guidance is followed by weak support for job search and job intermediation, especially for young people as they enter the labor market for the first time. The analysis shows that young people (and especially young women) face obstacles transitioning to the labor market. This includes inflation of qualifications, lack of trust of vocational qualifications, preference for higher levels of education, work experience requirements, and the mismatch of skills between supply and demand. In spite of the high level of unemployment, employers find it difficult to locate the personnel they require. Program Objectives: The objectives of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Support Program 2024 are the following: Developing systematic vocational counselling and career guidance from school to higher education level for all learners, jobseekers, and alumni, for better informed career decisions and higher access to labor market. Mainstreaming gender in TVET integrating a gender perspective and priority in all policy planning, implementation, and evaluation activities at all levels. Increasing the participation of female students in formerly male-dominated TVET programs and promoting formerly nontraditional TVET programs to both, female and male students to overcome discriminatory cultural norms and community practices so that women and men benefit equally from the same opportunities. Strengthening the capacity of TVET providers to overcome gender disparity in student recruitment and retention. The Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of the U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi will accept projects proposed and managed by Georgian TVET institutions that support the above listed objectives. Note: Proposals from regional TVET institutions that include public-private partnerships are encouraged.

The Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to carry out a project to establish a chapter of the International Association of Criminal Analysts (IACA) in Mexico with the aim of providing training, professional growth, and networking opportunities for federal and state criminal analysts of security and justice institutions of the Government of Mexico.

A. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Executive Summary: The U.S. Embassy Public Diplomacy Section in Dushanbe, Tajikistan is soliciting proposals for a cooperative agreement to administer the English Access Scholarship program, that meets the specifications stated below. The implementer must be a legally recognized non-governmental organization, that meets U.S. and Tajikistan technical and legal requirements to develop and implement Public Diplomacy Programs as specified in Section C. Background: Launched in 2004, the English Access Scholarship Program (hereafter known as Access Program or Access) is a two-year global scholarship program supported by the U.S. Department of State and managed by the U.S. Embassy of Tajikistan that provides a foundation of English language skills to bright, underserved students, primarily aged 14 to 15. This two-year, 360-hour program exposes participants to U.S. culture, global citizenship, and democratic values through English language scholarships, professional development opportunities for teachers and administrators, and programming for alumni. Consisting of both in-class and off-site activities, the program curricula must integrate the four pillars of the Access Program: global citizenship themes, U.S. culture and values, 21st-century skills, and English language instruction. Project description: The goal of the Access Program is to equip talented students who possess a minimal knowledge of English with effective communication and critical thinking skills through meaningful interaction, cooperative learning strategies, and real-life contexts. Additionally, Access seeks to prepare students for conversational English language skills with native and non-native speakers of English through a variety of experiential learning activities. Selected participants must be bright, economically disadvantaged students with a beginning level of English. Participants should commit to enroll in classes during the full two-year program. Students are expected to graduate with certificates of completion from the U.S. Embassy in Tajikistan at the end of their two-year program. The Program is divided into two distinct phases: (1) 360 hours of after school classroom instruction, consisting of a minimum 6 hours per week and maximum 2 hours per day as well as (2) off-site activities that are cohesive and clearly linked to the curriculum described below. The program curriculum must focus on the Media Literacy and Civic Engagement themes. These themes remain relevant in both urban and rural areas of Tajikistan and the youth will learn to analyze, evaluate, and expand their access to alternative sources of information through the in-class and off-site activities on Media Literacy. It also aims to engage youth in more active civic lifestyles based on critical thinking skills, sharing and production skills, informed decision-making, and active participation. Media literacy improves citizens' understanding of fundamental rights such as communication, as well as the balance between these rights and ethical obligations at the personal and collaborative levels. By tying these values to the concept of global citizenship, media literacy education encourages youth to respect and support the rights of others. Program Design When designing an Access program, providers should take into consideration the time needed to recruit and train teachers and to select students for the program prior to beginning instruction. In addition, the purchase of textbooks and supplies will be an important part of program planning. The U.S. Embassy recommends using four levels (Starter, Elementary, Pre-Intermediate and Intermediate) of American Headway Textbooks. Access Teacher Community of Practice (CoP) It is highly recommended that providers plan for and budget to pay teachers to attend at least two hours per month of teacher professional development through the free Access Teacher Community of Practice (CoP). The Access Teacher CoP is an online resource for teachers to receive professional development focused on model lesson plans as well as webinars with guest speakers on American culture. Professional Development Before Access instruction begins, providers should provide and budget for training for teachers on all four pillars of the Access Program. For example, training on global citizenship themes and U.S. culture and values can be facilitated through webinars on the Access Teacher CoP, while training on TESOL methodology and 21st-century skills may be incorporated through Online Professional English Network (OPEN) courses or in-person trainings organized by the U.S. Embassy's Regional English Language Office. It is recommended that teachers engage in professional development on the CoP throughout the two-year program. By the end of this program, Access students will learn skills that help them gain them access to better jobs, educational opportunities, and the ability to participate in and compete for future exchanges and study in the United States, such as through FLEX, TechGirls, UGRAD, Fulbright, etc. The Successful Provider will be Responsible for the Following Tasks: Collaborate with the U.S. Embassy to integrate program goals in curriculum and program design. Partner with the U.S. Embassy to select high-quality teachers and appropriate students for the program. Support professional development needs for Access teachers. Deliver instruction and programmatic activities. Regularly monitor and evaluate program implementation to ensure high-quality programming. Inform U.S. Embassy about significant program developments, challenges, and highlights. Send invitations to the relevant U.S. Embassy staff alerting them to special events, as well as opportunities to visit and speak. Submit success stories of Access Program students to relevant U.S. Embassy staff, in a timely manner, for use on social media. Maintain program and financial documentation to comply with auditing and U.S. Government regulation. Project Audience(s): Youth (9th grade students, typically ages 14-15) with beginner-level English speaking skills from low-income communities most affected by labor migration and vulnerable to extremist ideas (rural areas of Khatlon such as the villages surrounding the cities of Kulob, Danghara, Qubodiyon, and Shahrituz as well as districts of the Dushanbe Republican Subordination including Tursunzoda, Rudaki, Obigarm and others which are predominantly in Tajikistans remote areas). By targeting 9th grade students (typically ages 14-15) from undeserved/migrant families, with some interest in volunteerism/community/ sustainability and environment/technology/womens empowerment. The program will help these Tajik youth consider and build the skills needed for future careers which are needed to develop Tajikistans domestic economy. Project Goal: To support socio-economic empowerment of Tajik youth by improving English language proficiency of 9th grade students from underserved communities through participation in a two-year English language training program focused on media literacy and civic engagement. Project Objectives: Objective 1: Increase English language reading, writing, listening and speaking skills on themes of media literacy and civic engagement up to 50 program participants through in-class instruction and off-site civic engagement/volunteer activities. Objective 2: Strengthen students understanding of global citizenship, U.S. culture, values through experiential learning activities, leadership and civic engagement skills. For example: through volunteerism, community service activities, and engaging in issues that impact their local community. Objective 3: Improve the ability of students to critically analyze media content, identify disinformation and credible sources through media literacy training and simulated disinformation exercises. All proposals should: Proposals should include both Cost Proposal and Technical Proposal. [Attachments 1 and 2]; Address how the project will contribute to achievement of objectives listed above; Enumerate specific outputs and outcomes to be achieved by the end of the project, using the Monitoring Evaluation Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP) [Attachment 3]; Describe pedagogical approach that will be used to teach Access students; Describe in detail the process for selecting and recruiting students; Describe how students of different English language levels will be organized in the program; Describe how students will be motivated and encouraged to attend all Access sessions; Describe how parents/community will be informed and involved in the Access program; Demonstrate competency to manage all financial and oversight aspects of the project, including participant costs; Cost Proposal should have a detailed breakdown of costs for the two-year project including purchasing of books/materials, students transportation and snacks, project administration, admin costs, etc. On average, costs associated with one student in the framework of the two-year project are approximately $1,000. Each project can include up to 50 students. Projects that involve higher numbers of students with lower costs are encouraged. English Access Scholarship Program Handbook [Attachment 5]; B. FEDERAL AWARD INFORMATION Length of performance period: 2-year program Number of awards anticipated: 1 award per grantee for two or more sites. Award amounts: awards may range from a minimum of $24, 000 to a maximum of $50, 000. Total available funding: approximately $1,000 per student Award Ceiling: $50,000 Award Floor: $24,000 Type of Funding: FY23/24 Assistance for Europe, Eurasia, and Central Asia under the Foreign Assistance Act) Anticipated start date: November 30, 2024 The Public Diplomacy Section of Embassy Dushanbe reserves the right to award less or more than the amount of funds described in the absence of worthy applications or under such other circumstances as they may deem to be in the best interest of the U.S. government, pending the availability of funds and approval of the designated Grants Officer. This notice is subject to availability of funding. Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative agreement. The Embassy will be substantially involved in carrying out the following aspects of this cooperative agreement: - Serves as the primary point of contact for providers throughout the program. - Approves proposals, program reports, and expenses. - Reviews and approves Access program announcements. - Helps the provider in the selection process of students, program coordinators and teachers. - Helps the provider in the recruitment of participants. - Assists during the development of the curriculum of English language, leadership and professional skills, and exposure to U.S. culture and democratic values and Intensive sessions. - Participates in the Opening and Closing ceremonies of the program. - Visits program sites. -Oversees program implementation and financial compliance. - Provides general support such as connecting with Fulbright English Teaching Assistants and English Language Fellows; access to American Spaces; facilitating connections with FLEX alumni, USANT regional representatives and representatives from the United World Colleges. - Promotes the success stories of the project results. The Embassy will be involved in the areas mentioned above or others as needs may come up. Program Performance Period: Proposed programs should be completed in 2-years or less. Please refer to the related documents' section for the mandatory award attachments and complete English Access Scholarship Program NOFO.

Each funding opportunity description is a synopsis of information in the Federal Register application notice. For specific information about eligibility, please see the official application notice. The official version of this document is the document published in the Federal Register. Free Internet access to the official edition of the Federal Register and the Code of Federal Regulations is available on GPO Access at: http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/index.html. Please review the official application notice for pre-application and application requirements, application submission information, performance measures, priorities and program contact information. For the addresses for obtaining and submitting an application, please refer to our Revised Common Instructions for Applicants to Department of Education Discretionary Grant Programs, published in the Federal Register on December 7, 2022. Purpose of Program: The major purposes of the CSP are to expand opportunities for all students, particularly for children with disabilities[1], English learners, and other traditionally underserved students, to attend charter schools and meet challenging State academic standards; provide financial assistance for the planning, program design, and initial implementation of charter schools; increase the number of high-quality charter schools available to students across the United States; evaluate the impact of charter schools on student achievement, families, and communities; share best practices between charter schools and other public schools; aid States in providing facilities support to charter schools; support efforts to strengthen the charter school authorizing process; and support quality, accountability, and transparency in the operational performance of all authorized public chartering agencies, including State educational agencies (SEAs) and local educational agencies (LEAs) (section 4301 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESEA)). The CSP Developer Grant program (Assistance Listing Numbers 84.282B and 84.282E) is authorized under Title IV, Part C of the ESEA (20 U.S.C. 7221-7221j). Through CSP Developer Grants, the Department provides financial assistance to charter school developers to enable them to open and prepare for the operation of new or replicated charter schools or to expand high-quality charter schools in States that do not currently have a CSP State Entity grant under the ESEA. Charter schools that receive financial assistance through CSP Developer Grants provide elementary or secondary education programs, or both, and may also serve students in early childhood education programs or postsecondary students, consistent with the terms of their charter. Assistance Listing Number (ALN) 84.282B [1] Terms defined in this notice are italicized the first time each term is used.

Each funding opportunity description is a synopsis of information in the Federal Register application notice. For specific information about eligibility, please see the official application notice. The official version of this document is the document published in the Federal Register. Free Internet access to the official edition of the Federal Register and the Code of Federal Regulations is available on GPO Access at: http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/index.html. Please review the official application notice for pre-application and application requirements, application submission information, performance measures, priorities and program contact information. For the addresses for obtaining and submitting an application, please refer to our Revised Common Instructions for Applicants to Department of Education Discretionary Grant Programs, published in the Federal Register on December 7, 2022. Purpose of Program: The major purposes of the CSP are to expand opportunities for all students, particularly for children with disabilities[1], English learners, and other traditionally underserved students, to attend charter schools and meet challenging State academic standards; provide financial assistance for the planning, program design, and initial implementation of charter schools; increase the number of high-quality charter schools available to students across the United States; evaluate the impact of charter schools on student achievement, families, and communities; share best practices between charter schools and other public schools; aid States in providing facilities support to charter schools; support efforts to strengthen the charter school authorizing process; and support quality, accountability, and transparency in the operational performance of all authorized public chartering agencies, including State educational agencies (SEAs) and local educational agencies (LEAs) (section 4301 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESEA)). The CSP Developer Grant program (Assistance Listing Numbers 84.282B and 84.282E) is authorized under Title IV, Part C of the ESEA (20 U.S.C. 7221-7221j). Through CSP Developer Grants, the Department provides financial assistance to charter school developers to enable them to open and prepare for the operation of new or replicated charter schools or to expand high-quality charter schools in States that do not currently have a CSP State Entity grant under the ESEA. Charter schools that receive financial assistance through CSP Developer Grants provide elementary or secondary education programs, or both, and may also serve students in early childhood education programs or postsecondary students, consistent with the terms of their charter. Assistance Listing Number (ALN) 84.282E. [1] Terms defined in this notice are italicized the first time each term is used.

Each funding opportunity description is a synopsis of information in the Federal Register application notice. For specific information about eligibility, please see the official application notice. The official version of this document is the document published in the Federal Register. Free Internet access to the official edition of the Federal Register and the Code of Federal Regulations is available on GPO Access at: http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/index.html. Please review the official application notice for pre-application and application requirements, application submission information, performance measures, priorities and program contact information. For the addresses for obtaining and submitting an application, please refer to our Revised Common Instructions for Applicants to Department of Education Discretionary Grant Programs, published in the Federal Register on December 7, 2022. Purpose of Program: The GAANN Program provides grants to academic departments and programs of institutions of higher education (IHEs) to support graduate fellowships for students with excellent academic records in their previous programs of study who demonstrate financial need and plan to pursue the highest degree available in their course of study at the institution. Assistance Listing Number (ALN) 84.200A.

The U.S. Embassy in Prague Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of the U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce an opportunity for not-for-profit organizations/non-governmental organizations (NGOs) or academic institutions to submit project proposals to carry out a program of empowering young Roma individuals in the Czech Republic through the development and implementation of a comprehensive English language training program, complemented by soft skills training tailored specifically for this demographic. The overarching goal of this program is to address the critical need for enhanced English language proficiency and the cultivation of essential soft skills among the Roma youth population. This program aims to create pathways for improved access to education, expanded employment opportunities, increased social integration for Roma youth across the Czech Republic, and greater capacity to participate in international exchanges and collaborate with international NGOs. Priority Region: Czech Republic, with particular emphasis on activities outside the capital of Prague Participants and Audiences: The program targets young Roma individuals aged 15-25 residing in the Czech Republic, with a particular emphasis on reaching those facing socio-economic barriers to education and employment opportunities. Competitive proposals will create program cohorts in more than one Czech city. Proposals should include information on which specific cities will be targeted for courses, how many students will be enrolled, and what age cohorts within the target will be included in the proposed programs. Project Activities: Project activities, which can be carried out directly by the primary implementing organization or which may include sub-awards to partner organizations, should include all the following components: English Language Proficiency Enhancement: Develop a dynamic and interactive English language curriculum catered to the specific needs and backgrounds of young Roma individuals. Develop a schedule of courses that utilize innovative teaching methodologies, multimedia resources, and culturally relevant content to create a supportive and engaging learning environment. Soft Skills Development: Develop and provide comprehensive and age-appropriate training modules focusing on essential soft skills, which may include topics such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, job interviews, public speaking, computer skills, and leadership. Through experiential learning activities, role-playing scenarios, and real-world applications, participants should gain the necessary skills and confidence to navigate academic, professional, and social contexts effectively. Empowerment and Opportunities: Offer mentorship opportunities, networking, and access to resources aimed at holistic personal and professional development. This includes guidance on career pathways, educational opportunities, and strategies for overcoming societal barriers faced by Roma youth. Monitoring and Evaluation: Implement robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track the progress and impact of the program. Regular assessments, feedback sessions, and qualitative analysis will ensure continuous improvement and accountability throughout program implementation. Proposals should note how many students will participate, expected completion rates, and how progress on skills will be measured, including whether participants will receive any kind of certification for completing the program. Program Performance Period: Proposed programs should be completed in 24 months or less. All application materials must be submitted by email to [email protected] with the subject line Empowerment for Young Roma through English Language. Applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered.

Each funding opportunity description is a synopsis of information in the Federal Register application notice. For specific information about eligibility, please see the official application notice. The official version of this document is the document published in the Federal Register. Free Internet access to the official edition of the Federal Register and the Code of Federal Regulations is available on GPO Access at: http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/index.html. Please review the official application notice for pre-application and application requirements, application submission information, performance measures, priorities and program contact information. For the addresses for obtaining and submitting an application, please refer to our Revised Common Instructions for Applicants to Department of Education Discretionary Grant Programs, published in the Federal Register on December 7, 2022. Purpose of Program: The CLSD program awards competitive grants to advance literacy skills through the use of evidence-based (as defined in this notice) practices, activities, and interventions, including pre-literacy skills, reading, and writing, for children from birth through grade 12, with an emphasis on disadvantaged children, including children living in poverty, English learners (as defined in this notice), and children with disabilities (as defined in this notice). Assistance Listing Number (ALN) 84.371C.

The United States Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), through the Office of Public Diplomacy Section (PDS), is pleased to announce a Notice of Funding Opportunity to design and implement the BOLD Academic Fellowship Program on Economic Development. PDS invites proposal submissions from U.S. public and private non-profit organizations and accredited U.S. post-secondary educational institutions (community colleges, liberal arts colleges, public and private universities) meeting the provisions described in Internal Revenue Code section 26 USC 501(c)(3) (see section III, Eligibility Information) to design and implement the BOLD (Balkanski Omladinski Lideri, Balkan Young Leaders) Academic Fellowship for BiH Student Leaders on Economic Development, pending the availability of Fiscal Year 2023/2024 Assistance to Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia (AEECA) funds.

The U.S. Embassy in Bratislava announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to carry out a program to strengthen the rule of law, promote transparency, and bolster civil society in Slovakia. These projects will address critical areas, including: 1) Monitoring anticorruption progress and law enforcement efforts by evaluating advancement in anticorruption measures and supporting reforms related to conflict of interest prevention, public procurement transparency, or public interest legislation; 2) Examining ongoing efforts in judicial, prosecution service, and law enforcement reform and evaluating further reforms to enhance the judiciarys independence and strengthen capacities to counter economic crime and corruption; 3) Increasing public sector transparency and strengthening the capacity, accountability, and independence of judges, prosecutors, investigators, and oversight institutions; 4) Empowering citizens to address corruption by strengthening public participation, enhancing whistleblower protections, and raising public awareness about corruption; 5) Promoting civil society engagement and dialogue with the government, the judiciary, and the prosecution service; 6) Strengthening anti-corruption communities at the municipal and regional level to improve public control and citizen participation; 7) Building civil society capacities and resilience to effectively serve as watchdogs and ensure their sustainable, long-term operation. More information and instructions available at the website of the U.S. Embassy Bratislava (sk.usembassy.gov, Education and Culture, Public Affairs Section Grant Opportunities).

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)s Office of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (OSTEM) Engagement solicits proposals for the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program (Space Grant) Space Grant Opportunities in NASA STEM FY2025-2028. Each funded proposal is expected to define a comprehensive consortium program devoted to increasing student and youths understanding of space and aeronautics and to executing the assessment, development, and utilization of resources to bolster the STEM pipeline for aerospace. The funding opportunity is intended to provide four years of funding via an educational cooperative agreement.

A. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The U.S. Embassy Vienna of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to carry out a program to increase understanding of the United States and strengthen support for the transatlantic relationship and our common goals among young, emerging voices in Austrians. Please follow all instructions below. Although Austrians especially the younger generations tend to be eager consumers of American technology and popular culture, and view Americas economic prowess and entrepreneurial spirit as world class, there is skepticism toward U.S. global leadership, including the impression that the United States acts unilaterally on the world stage, concern about the stability of democracy, societal divides, and polarization in the United States. U.S. Embassy Vienna invites proposals for a Youth and Education Exchange to be carried out between September 2024 and December 2025. In times of increasing discord and mis- and disinformation, this program promises to contribute to coming generations of Austrian leaders understanding of the United States. Priority Region: None Program Objectives: This exchange program will focus on U.S. culture, shared values, disinformation, DEIA, and the contemporary American political and media landscape. The goal is to reinforce the power of shared democratic values, provide a first-hand look at the U.S. political process and the role of civil society, and enhance people-to-people ties between young Austrians and Americans. The program will reduce stereotypes and produce informed young Austrians who can act as citizen ambassadors, thus benefiting the Austrian-American relationship in the years ahead. As this will be a cooperative agreement, U.S. Embassy Vienna will have substantial involvement in this effort including participant selection and approval of the program structure and content of the U.S. component. The Public Diplomacy Section of the U.S. Embassy is providing maximum flexibility for applicant organizations to offer program models that effectively meet the overall goals of the program. In addition to those listed above, required elements of the program are as follows: - Participants should learn about the essential elements of contemporary American life, in particular leadership, civil society, community engagement, and politics and how these elements inter-relate. Participants should have the opportunity to experience these elements in a local U.S. community through interactive, hands-on training, which might include, for example: formal presentations, meetings with stakeholders, discussions, and cultural or social events. - Participants should have interaction with policy experts, media professionals, civil society representatives, and academics and students in both countries. - The program should include elements for post-program engagement with the Austrian participants that include mentoring and supporting participants as alumni of this program. - The recipient will identify specific and measurable outputs and outcomes based on the project specifications provided in the solicitation. Additional program goals include: - Promote future Austrian leaders awareness of the American political process and the resilience of U.S. democracy. - Encourage identification of the United States as a destination for future academic, business, or other partnerships, and ongoing education. - Foster professional and personal ties with participants and U.S. citizens in the local community. - Promote mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of Austria. Participants and Audiences: Target audience and participants are 10-15 Austrian university students and young professionals, between age 21 and 28 and residing permanently in Austria, with demonstrated leadership capacity to participate in a tailored and compact hybrid (with a virtual pre-program phase) program in Austria and the United States, focusing on education and leadership. B. FEDERAL AWARD INFORMATION Length of performance period: 12 to 24 months Number of awards anticipated: 1 award (dependent on amounts) Award amounts: awards may range from a minimum of $100,000 to a maximum of $150,000 Total available funding: $150,000 (pending availability of funds) Type of Funding: FY24 Smith Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds Anticipated program start date: September 15, 2024 This notice is subject to availability of funding. Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative agreement. Cooperative agreements and some FAAs are different from grants in that bureau/embassy staff are more actively involved in the grant implementation (Substantial Involvement). U.S. Embassy Vienna will have substantial involvement including participant selection and approval of the program structure and content of the U.S. component. Program Performance Period: Proposed programs should be completed in 24 months or less. Optional: The Department of State will 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. C. ELIGILIBITY INFORMATION 1. Eligible Applicants The following organizations are eligible to apply: Not-for-profit organizations, including think tanks and civil society/non-governmental organizations Public and private educational institutions For-profit organizations CANNOT apply. 2. Cost Sharing or Matching U.S. Embassy Vienna encourages cost-sharing, which may be in the form of allowable direct or indirect costs. There is no minimum or maximum percentage required for this competition, but a very competitive application will include cost sharing that allows for more participants. The recipient of an assistance award must maintain written records to support all allowable costs which are claimed as its contribution to cost participation, as well as costs to be paid by the federal government. Such records are subject to audit. 3. Other Eligibility Requirements In order to be eligible to receive an award, all organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number issued via www.SAM.gov as well as a valid registration on www.SAM.gov. Please see Section D.3 for more information. For the following sections please see the attached A2A FY24 NOFO Youth and Education Exchange document D. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION E. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION F. FEDERAL AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION G. FEDERAL AWARDING AGENCY CONTACTS If you have any questions about the grant application process, please contact: [email protected] H. OTHER INFORMATION

Ladies/Gentlemen: The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is seeking Draft Program Description from qualified entities to implement the Strengthening Economic and Socio-Cultural Resilience of Tibetan Communities in South Asia program by means of a Cooperative Agreement assistance award. Eligibility is open to all U.S., local, and international non-governmental organizations. USAID intends to make an award to the applicant(s) who best meets the objectives of this funding opportunity based on the merit review criteria described in this NOFO subject to a risk assessment. Eligible parties interested in submitting an application are encouraged to read this NOFO thoroughly to understand the type of program sought, application submission requirements and selection process. Subject to the availability of funds, USAID anticipates making not more than four direct awards to One Consortium Partner Arrangement with the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) as a result of this NOFO to the applicants who best satisfies the NOFO requirements. To be eligible for the award, the applicant(s) must provide all information as required in this NOFO and meet eligibility standards in Section C of this NOFO. This funding opportunity is posted on www.grants.gov, and may be amended. It is the responsibility of the applicant to regularly check the website to ensure they have the latest information pertaining to this notice of funding opportunity and to ensure that the NOFO has been received from the internet in its entirety. USAID bears no responsibility for data errors resulting from transmission or conversion process. If you have difficulty registering on www.grants.gov or accessing the NOFO, please contact the Grants.gov Helpdesk at 1-800-518-4726 or via email at [email protected] for technical assistance. USAID may not award to an applicant unless the applicant has complied with all applicable unique entity identifier and System for Award Management (SAM) requirements detailed in Section D.5.5. The registration process may take many weeks to complete. Therefore, applicants are encouraged to begin registration early in the process. Please send any questions to the point(s) of contact identified in Section G. The deadline for questions is shown above. Responses to questions received prior to the deadline will be furnished to all potential applicants through an amendment to this notice posted to www.grants.gov. Please note: USAID email server cannot handle more than 25 MBs of attachments per email. The applicant must divide the submission into more than one email, if necessary, but please number the emails in the subject line (i.e. Email 1 of 3). In the event of technical difficulties, please contact USAID at the email address [email protected]. Issuance of this notice of funding opportunity does not constitute an award commitment on the part of the Government nor does it commit the Government to pay for any costs incurred in preparation or submission of comments/suggestions or an application. Applications are submitted at the risk of the applicant. All preparation and submission costs are at the applicants expense. Thank you for your interest in USAID programs.

The Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) invites proposal submissions from public and private non-profit organizations that are based and legally registered in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) to implement the BiH component of the 2025-2026 Youth Leadership and Teacher Professional Development Program, pending the availability of Fiscal Year 2023/2024 Assistance to Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia (AEECA) funds. Mandatory Components: 1. The Youth Leadership Program (YLP) should be organized for 18 high school students aged 15-19, and three teachers from three communities in BiH to reflect the countrys diversity and administrative divisions, for a total of 21 participants in one program. 2. At the core of YLP is a substantive three-to-four-week program in the United States that takes place in at least two different cities during which time the BiH participants exchange information and experiences with peers in the United States. The United States-based program will be executed by a U.S. implementing partner. The BiH component of the program (The program) should incorporate a pre-departure orientation in Sarajevo and an eight-month period during which participants conduct a Community Action Project (CAP) in their hometowns. 3. The program should include group discussions, experiential learning activities, and exercises that focus on the themes outlined below and include aspects of leadership, teambuilding, collective problem-solving skills, effective communication, appreciation of diversity, and management skills. Participants should gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. 4. The program activities and content should represent diverse BiH political and social viewpoints, as well as other aspects of diversity. The program should advance the Embassys mission to promote mutual understanding between citizens of other countries and citizens of the United States. 5. The program should include a plan to guide and oversee follow-on engagement and project implementation once participants return home from the U.S. component of the project.

Teaching with Primary Sources Program (TPS) The Teaching with Primary Sources program has been the Library of Congresss premier educational outreach program. The goals of the program have included providing instructional materials, tools, education and professional development that enhance teachers ability to integrate digitized primary sources from the Library of Congress into instruction that builds student literacy, critical thinking skills, content knowledge and ability to conduct original research. Since the establishment of the Center for Learning, Literacy and Engagement in 2018, and the release of the Librarys 2019-23 and 2024-2028 Strategic Plans, the TPS goals are both influencing and reflecting the Librarys broader outreach goals. TPS Consortium members are valued as Connectors who help the Library achieve its vision of connecting to all Americans. www.loc.gov/teachers Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for New Awards (FY25-FY27) The purpose of this notice is to identify awardee organizations that will design and implement educational projects in which the Librarys digitized primary sources and other online materials are central to teaching and learning. The Library seeks to solicit project proposals that expand the body of innovative strategies, tools, and materials for meaningful teaching and learning with Library of Congress materials. Specifically, the Library of Congress seeks to make awards to support the creative and wide-ranging educational use of Library online resources that serves sub populations of Americans based on their unique professions, ethnicities, geographic locations, abilities, interests, affiliations, and other attributes. In support of the Librarys mission to use its collections to connect with those representing diverse communities, beliefs, and endeavors to engage, inspire, and inform Congress and the American people with a universal and enduring source of knowledge and creativity, the Professional Learning and Outreach Initiatives Office (PLOI), within the Center for Learning, Literacy and Engagement, has broadened the focus of TPS awards to include the design of educational projects using Library of Congress materials for use in and outside of formal classroom settings. Proposed projects may focus on diverse content areas such as Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), literacy (including media literacy), social studies, civics, art, teacher education, public health, journalism, justice and equality, and other areas that coincide with applicants passions, expertise, and professional experience. However, the project must address demonstrated educational needs of specific recipient populations and provide solutions that standard practice, documented experience, or research suggest would be effective. Submission Information All proposals must be submitted electronically via email to [email protected]. Proposals submitted through Grants.gov will not be accepted. For full NOFO details, award project criteria, eligibility, and requirements, please view the Related Documents tab for this listing.

Teaching with Primary Sources Program (TPS) The Teaching with Primary Sources program has been the Library of Congresss premier educational outreach program. The goals of the program have included providing instructional materials, tools, education and professional development that enhance teachers ability to integrate digitized primary sources from the Library of Congress into instruction that builds student literacy, critical thinking skills, content knowledge and ability to conduct original research. Since the establishment of the Center for Learning, Literacy and Engagement in 2018, and the release of the Librarys 2019-23 and 2024-2028 Strategic Plans, the TPS goals are both influencing and reflecting the Librarys broader outreach goals. TPS Consortium members are valued as Connectors who help the Library achieve its vision of connecting to all Americans. www.loc.gov/teachers Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for Continuing Awards (FY25-FY27) With this Notice, the Library seeks to solicit project proposals from current TPS Consortium members that expand the use of teaching materials, tools, and strategies they developed under previous TPS awards. This opportunity is only open to Teaching with Primary Sources (TPS) Program Consortium Members who have received grants directly from the Library and who meet the eligibility requirements as stated in this Notice. Specifically, the Library of Congress seeks to provide funding to experienced TPS providers to disseminate their TPS teaching materials, tools, programming, and research to meet the needs of learners representing specific professions, ethnicities, geographic locations, abilities, interests, affiliations, and other attributes. Successful applicants will extend their outreach to groups of educators and learners they have identified as being underserved by the TPS program. Applicants must describe how they will support current and new audiences by reviewing and revising products they developed under TPS; modifying TPS products to enhance their value to educators and learners; and developing strategies and networks that facilitate outreach to targeted populations. Applicants must submit project proposals that address demonstrated educational needs of specific recipient populations with solutions that standard practice, documented experience, or research suggest would be effective. Submission Information All proposals must be submitted electronically via email to [email protected]. Proposals submitted through Grants.gov will not be accepted. For full NOFO details, award project criteria, eligibility, and requirements, please view the Related Documents tab for this listing.

The purpose of this NOFO is to fund research at one or more research Centers of Excellence (Centers or COEs, COE when singular) at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The Centers will conduct research projects on topics of strategic interest to HUD and produce research that provides evidence-based solutions to housing, community development, economic development, or built environment challenges in underserved communities. Applicants must clearly specify proposed research projects and how they fill key knowledge and evidence gaps, describe their capacity to successfully conduct the proposed research and disseminate their findings to policymakers and other key stakeholders, and detail plans for developing and sustaining a Center of Excellence.Through this NOFO, HUD is seeking HBCUs with demonstrated capacity to conduct rigorous and policy-relevant research, develop actionable policy recommendations, and share findings with policymakers, community organizations and other key stakeholders able to implement policy and programmatic solutions to challenges in underserved communities. We encourage applicants to propose building on their demonstrated experience to do something new and innovative. We encourage the submission of proposals that draw on novel research approaches, including big data analytics, machine learning and artificial intelligence; community-engaged and participatory research; and novel partnerships such as academic consortia and collaboration with other Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs), other Institutions of Higher Education, community-based organizations, or other federal, state and local government agencies. Partners can include subrecipients. Competitive applications will include action and sustainability plans, creative partnerships and collaboration models, multidisciplinary and holistic methodologies, and new or enhanced theory of change models designed to achieve transformative outcomes.HUD anticipates awarding up to four awards ranging from $1 million to $4 million. Using the funds made available through this NOFO, recipients will undertake multiple research projects.Research Projects: The research projects proposed by the applicant must be on topics of strategic interest to HUD that address challenges related to housing, community development, economic development, or the built environment in underserved communities. These topics may be from HUDs 2022-26 Learning Agenda, which identifies HUDs priority learning and research questions, consistent with the Departmental objectives and goals described in HUDs 2022-26 Strategic Plan.Other topics of strategic interest to HUD include:equity issues in local housing markets, broadly defined to include production and preservation, rental and homeownership, tenant protections, fair housing, zoning and land use, property appraisals, and property taxation;promoting housing stability and preventing people from experiencing homelessness;improvements and innovations in building codes, planning methods and construction technologies to address housing and community development needs and improve environmental sustainability and climate resilience;green or energy-efficient practices in housing and carbon reduction strategies;disaster preparedness and disaster recovery;leveraging technology to address housing, community development, and economic development needs, improve the built environment, or create wealth-building opportunities in historically underserved communities;innovative solutions that allow residents of HUD-assisted rental housing and other low-income renters to access economic opportunities, quality education, affordable transportation, health care, essential services, green space, and cultural amenities;housing and community planning that addresses the needs of and engages underserved communities.HUD is particularly interested in research to both better understand and eliminate disparities in laws and policies, and in public and private institutions, that may deny equal housing and community-building opportunities to individuals and families in underserved communities, and support policy solutions to address these disparities and that can be applied to a wide variety of communities. Research should relate to a long-term goal (e.g., improving minority homeownership). Given the range of possible research topics, the research funded by this NOFO has the potential to address almost all of the goals and objectives in HUDs Strategic Plan.The proposed research should apply new and context-specific approaches and methods to studying challenges faced by underserved communities in urban or rural areas. Applicants should also describe how the proposed research would fill key knowledge and evidence gaps and how they plan to share findings with policymakers, community organizations and other key stakeholders able to implement policy and programmatic solutions to challenges in underserved communities. Applicants may wish to review previously approved published research to avoid duplication and illustrate what completed HUD research studies look like.Center of Excellence: The research Centers of Excellence (COEs) shall conduct rigorous and actionable research focused on housing, community development, economic development, and the built environment in underserved communities. COEs should take a multidisciplinary approach to the research and use innovative methods. Ultimately, the purpose of a COE will be to support evidence-based, data-driven, and community-informed policymaking and program improvements at the local, state, and national levels.The COE will serve as a platform for the formulation, analysis, and dissemination of innovative, evidence-based solutions to address problems confronting underserved communities. The COE will perform academic research, hold expert convenings, and conduct related activities designed to advance understanding of economic and social factors that affect communities, including housing, economic and workforce development, health and health care, education, civic engagement, public safety, and other dimensions of community health. Through academic programs, research projects, and thought leadership, the COE will help leaders across all levels of government, as well as the business and civic sectors, address critical issues that impact the social and economic well-being of the families and individuals who reside in underserved communities.Applicants are encouraged to consider and apply lessons from the experiences of and research produced at COEs at HBCUs and Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) funded through past HUD grants, as well as other university-based housing research centers.The awardee will be required to develop and submit a detailed plan for the development and long-term sustainability (beyond 5 years) of a Center of Excellence to continue the work started under this NOFO and serve as a leader in researching issues related to housing, community development, economic development, and the built environment in underserved communities. Eligible ActivitiesAwardees can use funds to conduct research projects on topics described in this NOFO and in their application that will contribute to the development of a sustainable research Center of Excellence. Funds can be used for a variety of research activities, including articulating research questions, establishing and implementing appropriate data analysis, communicating and sharing research findings, and producing informational tools and resources that improve practice.Center of Excellence does not refer to physical entities; HUD will not fund buildings or the rental and/or maintenance of office space. Funds may not be used for construction or other construction related activities, or for the purchase or lease of real property, or for the purchase of equipment.

Each funding opportunity description is a synopsis of information in the Federal Register application notice. For specific information about eligibility, please see the official application notice. The official version of this document is the document published in the Federal Register. Free Internet access to the official edition of the Federal Register and the Code of Federal Regulations is available on GPO Access at: http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/index.html. Please review the official application notice for pre-application and application requirements, application submission information, performance measures, priorities and program contact information. For the addresses for obtaining and submitting an application, please refer to our Revised Common Instructions for Applicants to Department of Education Discretionary Grant Programs, published in the Federal Register on December 7, 2022. Purpose of Program: The purpose of the Disability Innovation Fund (DIF) Program, as provided by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023 (Pub. L. 117-328), is to support innovative (as defined in this notice) activities aimed at increasing competitive integrated employment (CIE) as defined in section 7 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Rehabilitation Act) (29 U.S.C. 705(5))[1] for youth and other individuals with disabilities. Assistance Listing Number (ALN) 84.421F. [1] See 34 CFR 361.5(c)(9) for the regulatory definition of "competitive integrated employment," which further clarifies the definition in the Rehabilitation Act.