Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund 2026

Background
In recognition of the 250th anniversary of the United States, the U.S. Department of State’s Embassy Bangui invites proposals for projects that advance U.S. interests by contributing to a safer, stronger, and more prosperous America through strategic international engagement. This funding opportunity seeks locally led initiatives that demonstrate how U.S. values, civic participation, and people-to-people partnerships strengthen security, expand economic opportunity, and reinforce democratic resilience while building durable relationships between the United States and the Central African Republic.

Grant Details
The Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund 2026 aims to support projects that promote awareness of U.S. democratic institutions, history, and civic traditions through public discussions, exhibitions, and educational initiatives. The project should encourage youth engagement by highlighting American leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation. It should foster dialogue linking U.S. civic principles to local governance and community service in the Central African Republic. Proposed projects must be completed within 12 months or less and can include activities such as public discussions, exhibitions, educational initiatives, and cultural programming that integrates Freedom 250 themes.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include registered not-for-profit organizations (including think tanks and civil society/non-governmental organizations), non-profit or governmental educational institutions, and individuals who are alumni of a U.S. government-funded or sponsored exchange program. Applications must be submitted by exchange alumni or alumni associations of U.S. government exchange alumni; no other organizations are eligible to apply. Cost sharing or matching is encouraged but not required.

Period of Performance
The period of performance for this grant is between 6 to 12 months with an anticipated project start date of August 15, 2026.

Grant Value
The total available funding for this opportunity is $70,000 with individual awards ranging from a minimum of $5,000 to a maximum of approximately $35,000.

Place of Performance
The grant will be performed in the Central African Republic.