The U.S. Embassy in Finland’s Public Diplomacy Section is offering the Public Diplomacy Small Grants Program to enhance U.S.-Finland bilateral cooperation.

The Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of the U.S. Embassy in Finland, U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce that funding is available through its Public Diplomacy Small Grants Program. This is an Annual Program Statement, outlining our funding priorities, the strategic themes we focus on, and the procedures for submitting requests for funding.

PDS Finland invites proposals for programs that promote bilateral cooperation and highlight shared values. All programs must include an American perspective, societal or cultural element, or connection with American expert/s, organization/s, or institution/s in a specific field that will promote increased understanding of U.S. policy and viewpoints. Additionally, programs must include a public outreach component(s), such as livestreaming, masterclasses, traditional media, digital outreach, or events open to audiences.

 Examples of PDS Small Grants Program programs include, but are not limited to:

 ·      Academic and professional lectures, and seminars;

·       Professional and academic exchanges and programs;

·       Artistic and cultural workshops, joint performances, and exhibitions

Priority Program Areas: 

·  Proposals that relate to the Arctic and increasing cooperation between Arctic states and communities;

·   Addressing climate change and changing environmental conditions;

·   Proposals that advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility;

·   Proposals that address global security challenges and increasing understanding of NATO, including programs in support of Women, Peace, and

Security (WPS) initiatives;

·   Proposals that increase collaboration and exchange between American and Finnish students and teachers;

·   Proposals that promote economic prosperity, entrepreneurship, and innovation 

The following types of programs are not eligible for funding:  

·       Programs relating to partisan political activity;

·       Charitable or development activities;

·       Construction programs;

·       Fund-raising campaigns;

·       Lobbying for specific legislation;

·       Programs intended primarily for the growth or institutional development of the organization;

·       Programs intended for an individual’s personal enrichment or career development;

·       Programs that do not include a partner based in Finland;

·       Grants to for-profit entities

Proposed programs should be completed in 24 months or less. PDS will entertain applications for continuation grants funded under these awards beyond the initial budget period on a non-competitive basis subject to availability of funds, satisfactory progress of the program, and a determination that continued funding would be in the best interest of the U.S. Department of State.