U.S. Embassy Ottawa’s Grant for the U.S. Speaker and Specialist Program in Canada

The U.S. Embassy Public Diplomacy Section in Ottawa is soliciting proposals for a cooperative agreement as specified below from nongovernmental organizations and other legally recognized non-profit institutions that meet U.S. and Canadian technical and legal requirements to develop and implement educational and cultural programs.

1) U.S. Speaker and Specialist Program for the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Canada:

This program will connect U.S. experts with Canadian audiences and institutions on topics of strategic importance to the United States.  Programs are conducted in-person and/or through virtual platforms, and proposals should outline how an organization will address both options.  Traveling programs generally range from two days to one week in length.  Virtual programs usually take place on a single specified date and time and may be part of a continuing series.  The U.S. Speaker and Specialist Program will promote an understanding of U.S. strategic priorities, policies, and institutions and build linkages between U.S. and Canadian experts, audiences, and institutions.  Speakers will address topics identified by PD that will advance its strategic goals.  Speakers will be programmed with a variety of audiences and at a wide range of Canadian institutions.

The following strategic areas in the Roadmap for a Renewed U.S.-Canada Partnership from which the recipient should be prepared to identify and recruit experts include, but are not limited to:

·        Accelerating Climate Ambitions

·        Advancing Diversity and Inclusion

·        Building Global Alliances

·        Building Back Better

·        Bolstering Security and Defense

·        Combatting COVID-19

At PD’s discretion, experts in other priority areas, including but not limited to education, culture, and the arts, may also be included in this project.  This project will not include recruitment and programming of performing arts groups to tour Canada.  In the case that PD identifies the expert, the recipient will not provide recruitment services but will provide all other logistical and administrative support required for the expert’s travel to Canada or virtual participation in an event to include the coordination, purchase and provision of international and domestic travel, lodging, per diem and honoraria.