FY 2026 U.S. Creative Tech Exchange

Background
The U.S. Creative Tech Exchange (U.S.CTX) is a new international arts exchange program initiated by the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA). The program aims to drive economic growth by connecting U.S. creative professionals and technologists with international peers at the intersection of arts and emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI).

The goal is to enhance American innovation, economic influence, and cultural presence in the fields of architecture, creative coding, gaming, fashion, graphic design, music, and immersive art forms such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR). The program will support up to 30 participants through hands-on activities including collaborative labs, fellowships, workshops, and public showcases.

Grant Details
ECA will award one U.S.-based nonprofit or educational organization $1.32 million to design and implement the U.S.CTX program in close coordination with ECA and U.S. embassies. The selected organization must propose a concept that leverages its strengths while including clear plans for recruitment, program delivery, and measurable outcomes in creative arts, economic impact, and public diplomacy.

Program components may include:
- Hands-on collaborative project labs focusing on AI-enabled art;
- Short-term fellowships or industry placements;
- Practical skills workshops on topics like AI ethics and monetization;
- Mentorship from established professionals;
- Public showcases to highlight participant outcomes.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include U.S. not-for-profit organizations (including think tanks and civil society organizations) and U.S. not-for-profit public or private educational institutions. Applicants must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) issued via SAM.gov and a valid registration in SAM.gov. Organizations must demonstrate at least four years of experience in conducting international exchanges to be eligible for awards exceeding $130,000.

Period of Performance
The period of performance for this grant is anticipated to be 18 months.

Grant Value
The total value of the grant is approximately $1.32 million.

Place of Performance
The grant activities will take place in the United States as well as internationally in partner countries determined by ECA.