U.S. Department of State’s Public Diplomacy Grant for Strengthening U.S.-Rwanda Relations

The U.S. Embassy in Rwanda, of the U.S. Department of State, is pleased to announce that funding is available through its Public Diplomacy Grants Program. This is an Annual Program Statement outlining our funding priorities, strategic themes, and procedures for submitting requests for funding. Please carefully follow all instructions below.

Funding Instrument Type: Grant, fixed amount award (FAA), or cooperative agreement. Cooperative agreements and some FAAs are different from grants in that embassy staff are more actively involved in the grant implementation (“Substantial Involvement”).

Program Performance Period: Proposed projects should be completed in 12 months or less.

This notice is subject to availability of funding.

1.  Executive SummaryExecutive Summary

U.S. Embassy Kigali invites proposals that strengthen connections between the United States and the Rwandan people through projects focused on innovation and skills development, that advance economic prosperity. Proposed programs should clearly align with any of the Embassy’s priority areas, which include STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), media and journalism, sports diplomacy, and economic growth.

A.   Eligibility

1.  Eligible ApplicantsThe following organizations are eligible to apply:

·        U.S. and foreign not-for-profit organizations, including think tanks and civil society/non-governmental organizations

·        U.S. and foreign public and private educational institutions

·        U.S. and foreign individuals

2.  Cost Sharing or Matching 

Though not a requirement, the U.S. Embassy encourages proposals with cost-sharing.

3.  Other Eligibility RequirementsAll organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) issued via SAM.gov as well as a valid registration on SAM.gov. Please see Section D.3 for more information. Individuals are not required to have a UEI or be registered in SAM.gov.

B.   Program DescriptionThis funding opportunity is designed to strengthen the U.S. government’s relationship with local communities in Rwanda, advance mutual goals, and amplify the positive impact of collaborative projects. We encourage innovative proposals that address the below outlined priority areas.

1.  Goals and Objectives 

Priority Program Areas:

This funding opportunity aims to maximize the impact of U.S. government investments by supporting projects that:

·        Promote Leadership through Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM): Proposals should integrate STEM education through innovative projects that develop expertise, foster problem-solving abilities, and prepare young Rwandans for future challenges and opportunities.

·        Promote Media Professionals’ Capacity and Digital Literacy Among Youth: Proposals should aim to expand competencies with digital tools and storytelling. These initiatives help young reporters and changemakers foster a well-informed society.

·        Promote Sports Diplomacy: Proposals should focus on fostering cooperation and economic growth through sports. By creating opportunities for cultural exchange and building stronger international relationships, sports diplomacy helps individuals and communities connect across borders and cultures, and develop alternate economic revenues to increase self-reliance.

·        Promote Professional Skills Development: Proposals should aim to equip individuals with the necessary skills for career advancement and economic growth. By supporting professional skills development, these initiatives help improve the quality of the workforce, ensuring that individuals are better prepared to meet the demands of the modern job market and contribute to their communities’ overall prosperity.

·        Enhance English Proficiency: Proposals should focus on improving English proficiency, as it enhances global communication and provides educational opportunities that can lead to personal and professional growth. By supporting English language education, individuals can better engage in international dialogue, access more information, and participate in global economic activities.

Participants and Audiences:

Priority will be given for project proposals that focus on youth audiences (over the age of 15), business and professional audiences.

The following types of programs are not eligible for funding:

·                             Programs relating to partisan political activity;

·                             Charitable or development activities;

·                             Construction programs;

·                             Programs that support specific religious activities;

·                             Fund-raising campaigns;

·                             Lobbying for specific legislation or programs;

·                             Scientific research;

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

·                             Programs that duplicate existing programs.

2.  Substantial Involvement For cooperative agreements or Fixed Amount Awards (FAA) with substantial involvement, U.S. Embassy Kigali will actively participate in the following areas to ensure project success and alignment with U.S. foreign policy objectives:

·        Program Planning and Development: Collaborate on planning, provide input, and approve work plans and timelines.

·        Monitoring and Evaluation: Participate in progress meetings, site visits, and review reports to ensure compliance and effectiveness.

·        Technical Assistance and Capacity Building: Offer guidance and training in program and financial management.

·        Coordination and Networking: Facilitate collaboration with other agencies and stakeholders and provide networking opportunities.

·        Approval of Key Personnel: Review and approve key project personnel to ensure qualifications and experience.

·        This involvement ensures effective project management, achievement of outcomes, and contribution to U.S. foreign policy and development goals in Rwanda.