Public Affairs Section Grant for Strengthening U.S.-Cyprus Ties

To achieve the objective of the Public Diplomacy Small Grants Program, grant proposals that advance the following themes will be considered:

• Academic collaboration: Promoting and facilitating linkages between U.S. and Cypriot educational institutions;
• Countering disinformation, enhancing media literacy, supporting excellence in journalism: Supporting investigative journalism and/or strengthening media and civil society’s ability to counter disinformation;
• Cultural exchanges: Promoting the exchange of culture between the United States and Cyprus;
• English language proficiency: Supporting English language teaching and learning among students and professionals;
• Science and technology cooperation: Enhancing cooperation in climate/environment, science, and STEM/STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) programs, especially for women and youth;
• Social inclusion: Promoting and safeguarding equal rights and opportunities for immigrants, LGBTQI+ individuals, people with disabilities, indigenous communities, and racial minorities;
• Strengthening democratic institutions: Fortifying democratic processes, addressing transnational issues, and increasing civic education and participation;
• Support post-pandemic economic revival efforts: Enhancing business and entrepreneurial skills using U.S. models, creating new U.S.-Cyprus partnerships and opportunities for start-up companies, supporting social impact investment, and empowering women and young entrepreneurs.

COVID-19 special announcement to all potential applicants: In light of the restrictive travel and public gathering environments caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, where applicable, proposals are expected to include a primary or alternate plan for executing project goals through virtual engagement, as a substitute for travel or in-person gatherings. Where necessary, applicants may submit an alternate budget to correspond to virtual engagement programs.

The Public Affairs Section will give consideration to the full range and diversity of U.S. and Cypriot non-profit organizations.

For-profit institutions, such as those registered as commercial and/or private businesses, are not eligible to receive funding.

Priority will be given to:

• U.S. and Cypriot individuals and institutions with a proven track record of executing events exchanges, and programs;
• Proposals that demonstrate the long-term sustainability of the project and/or outcomes.
• Proposals that address gender parity among participants/target audiences and include engagement with underserved communities (including, but not limited to, immigrants, LGBTQI+ individuals, people with disabilities).

Categories that are not eligible for funding under this NOFO:

• Charitable or development activities;
• Construction programs;
• Programs that support specific religious activities;
• Fundraising campaigns;
• Lobbying for specific legislation or programs
• Scientific research;
• Programs intended primarily for the growth or institutional development of an organization, social welfare projects, acts of charity, or international development projects;
• Investments primarily benefiting only one or a small number of businesses or individuals;
• Scholarships for the study of English outside specific Department of State programs;
• Exchange programs with countries other than the U.S. and Cyprus;
• Programs or exchanges focused on children under 16 years of age; and
• Programs that duplicate existing programs.

Please visit the link listed under “Link to Additional Information” below for complete information.