U.S. Mission Kazakhstan Public Diplomacy Section: Alumni Grants for Workforce Development

PLEASE SEE FULL ANNOUNCEMENT TEXT IN THE ATTACHMENT DOCUMENT NAMED 1. Alumni Grants Program 2024 NOFO

Executive Summary:

The U.S. Mission Kazakhstan announces an open competition to implement an Alumni Grants Program to promote workforce development and strengthen economic diversification in Kazakhstan. Alumni of U.S. government-supported exchange programs are represented in all sectors of the economy, government, and society in Kazakhstan, and have unique knowledge and skills to address pressing national and global challenges. This funding mechanism will support projects led by alumni directed toward workforce development of youth and women’s economic empowerment.

Background:

For the past five years, U.S. Mission Kazakhstan’s Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) has supported more than 40 grants to alumni under the Alumni Grants Program (AGP) focused on strengthening civil society. The majority of these grants promoted youth empowerment, women’s empowerment, civic activism, human rights, and media literacy. 

A fast-changing economy, a skill gap between young people and the demands of the labor market, and social and cultural conventions that restrict work choices make the situation in Kazakhstan complicated for young people, particularly women, seeking to enter the work force. To address this issue, this year, the Alumni Grants Program will prioritize initiatives focused on economic growth and workforce development by supporting alumni with U.S. experience to leverage their expertise and knowledge. Projects should focus on high growth industries such as information technology, e-commerce, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and tourism.

Project Goal:  Increase economic participation of youth from underserved communities in high-growth industries through workforce development opportunities by leveraging USG exchange alumni experience.

Project Objectives: Project proposals may address one or more of the objectives listed below.

Objective 1: Equip young professionals with in-demand knowledge and skills in order to increase their competitiveness and employability through professional development, mentorship, and partnership opportunities with high-growth industries.

Objective 2: Increase professional development opportunities for women in high growth industries through mentorship programs and networking events that allow them to connect, share experiences and build professional relationships.

Objective 3: Identify gender biases and advocate for policies that fight against discrimination in hiring, promotion, pay equity, and career advancement for women within Kazakhstan’s business ecosystem.

Potential Project Audiences:

·        Youth and young adults aged 18 – 35 residing in low-income or underserved communities

·        Women entrepreneurs

·        Business leaders

·        Government officials

·        Social media influencers

·        Civil society representatives

·        Academics and higher education professionals