FY26 - Annual Program Statement 03.pdf

Annual Program Statement (APS)

U. S. Embassy Harare, Public Diplomacy

Harare, Department of State

Opportunity number: AF-HAR-FY26-03

Application deadline(s): September 13, 2026

Table of Contents

A. BASIC INFORMATION

B. ELIGIBILITY

C. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

D. APPLICATION CONTENTS AND FORMAT

E. SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND DEADLINES

F. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

G. AWARD NOTICES

H. POST-AWARD REQUIREMENTS AND ADMINISTRATION

I. OTHER INFORMATION

U.S Department of State Embassy Harare, Public Diplomacy Section

Annual Program Statement for Public Diplomacy

A. BASIC INFORMATION

1. Overview

Funding Opportunity Title U.S. Embassy Harare, PD 2026 Annual Program Statement

Funding Opportunity Number AF-HAR-FY26-03

Deadline for Applications September 13, 2026

Assistance Listing Number 19.040

Length of performance period 12 to 18 months

Number of awards anticipated 3 awards (dependent on amounts)

Award amounts awards may range from a minimum of $10,000 to a maximum of $20,000

Total available funding $30,000 pending funding availability

Type of Funding FY26 Smith Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds

Anticipated project start date Rolling basis Starting September 2026

The U.S. Embassy Harare Public Diplomacy Section 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, the strategic themes we focus on and the procedures for submitting requests for funding. Please carefully follow all instructions below.

Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative agreement. Cooperative agreements include substantial involvement of the bureau or embassy in program implementation of the project. An FAA can also include substantial involvement. Examples of substantial involvement are included in section C below.

Project Performance Period: Proposed projects should be completed in 18 months or less.

This notice is subject to availability of funding. The Public Diplomacy Section reserves the right to award less or more than the funds described under circumstances deemed to be in the best interest of the U.S. government, pending the availability of funds and approval of the designated grants officer.

2. Executive Summary

The U.S. Department of State’s Embassy Harare announces an open competition to implement a program to that strengthen networks between the people of the United States and the people of Zimbabwe through programs highlighting U.S.-Zimbabwe shared goals and values. All programs MUST include an American component, in a specific field. Projects that incorporate strong American components into their design will be prioritized over other proposals.

B. ELIGIBILITY

1. Eligible Applicants

The following organizations are eligible to apply:

• Not-for-profit organizations, including think tanks and civil society/non-governmental organizations

• Public and private educational institutions

• Individuals

• Public International Organizations and Governmental institutions

For-profit entities, even those that may fall into the categories listed above, are not eligible to apply for this APS. Organizations may sub-contract with other entities, but only one, non-profit, non-governmental entity can be the prime recipient of the award. When sub-contracting with other entities, the responsibilities of each entity must be clearly defined in the proposal. For more information on the difference between sub-contract and sub-recipient, please refer to 2

CFR 200.331.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching

Cost sharing or matching is encouraged but not required for this funding opportunity.

3. Other Eligibility Requirements

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

4. This opportunity will not support:

• Projects relating to partisan political activity;

• Charitable or development activities; including direct social services such as medical, psychological, and/or humanitarian support

• Construction projects;

• Projects that support specific religious activities;

• Fund-raising campaigns;

• Lobbying for specific legislation or programs

• Scientific research or surveys;

• Commercial projects;

• Projects intended primarily for the growth or institutional development of the organization;

• Projects that duplicate existing projects; or

• Illegal activities https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.331 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.331

C. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

1. Project Background, Goals, and Objectives

The Public Diplomacy Section invites proposals for programs that support one of the following

U.S. Embassy priority program areas listed below. Applicants are strongly encouraged to propose collaborative approaches and programs that integrate multiple priority areas.

Priority Program Areas/Goals: Applicants may submit a proposal to address one of the program goals below. Proposals should focus on one or more of the priority outcomes, but applicants may also recommend their own objective.

Priority Program Areas:

• Commercial Diplomacy and U.S.-Zimbabwe Trade

• Artificial Intelligence for improved prosperity

• Cybersecurity

• Technology Literacy and Resilience

• Free Speech

• American Excellence in education, media, sports, creative industries, civil society

GOAL 1. FREE SPEECH AND OPEN EXPRESSION

Promote democratic principles including freedom of speech and civic participation; particularly if they share best practices for citizen advocacy or explore the challenges modern media houses face in a digital economy and the ethical standards needed to gain public confidence.

Project Audience(s): Organizations and individuals that reflect American values, policies and priorities

Priority Outcomes(s): Applicants may focus on one or more of the outcomes listed below.

Applicants are encouraged to propose additional objectives and innovative activities that address the priority program areas.

Outcome: A more informed and media-literate Zimbabwean public that can identify and resist disinformation, with stronger independent media institutions operating transparently and ethically. Strengthening independent media in Zimbabwe advances U.S. strategic interests in promoting open, stable societies across Africa.

GOAL 2. ADVANCE U.S.-ZIMBABWE COMMERCIAL TIES AND ECONOMIC

PROSPERITY

Advance economic prosperity; particularly connecting social entrepreneurs and the creative community with online marketing tools.

Project Audience(s): Organizations and individuals that reflect American values, policies, and priorities the priority program areas.

Outcome: Increased bilateral trade activity, expanded market access for U.S. goods and services, and a growing cohort of Zimbabwean entrepreneurs with direct ties to U.S. businesses and platforms. Deepening commercial relationships with Zimbabwe creates new markets for

American exports, strengthens U.S. economic influence in the region, and reduces Zimbabwe's economic dependence on adversarial partners. This directly supports the America First economic agenda and commercial diplomacy priorities.

GOAL 3. HARNESS EMERGING TECHNOLOGY AND ARTIFICIAL

INTELLIGENCE FOR DEVELOPMENT

Empower Zimbabweans to leverage American innovations in technology, AI, and digital tools, to drive economic growth, improve livelihoods, and improve digital trade opportunities between the

United States and Zimbabwe.

priorities.

the priority program areas.

Outcome: A growing base of Zimbabwean professionals and institutions equipped to adopt, adapt, and deploy emerging American technologies - including AI - for economic and social development, using U.S.-developed platforms and frameworks. Promoting U.S.-developed technology standards and platforms in Zimbabwe expands American technological influence and market share, and builds a digital ecosystem aligned with U.S. values of openness, security, and innovation.

GOAL 4. EXPAND U.S.-ZIMBABWE PROFESSIONAL NETWORKS AND PEOPLE-

TO-PEOPLE TIES

Deepen bilateral relationships through targeted workshops, alumni engagement, and exchange partnerships that advance shared solutions and reinforce American values and influence.

priorities.

the priority program areas.

Outcome: Strengthened alumni networks and new professional cohorts with sustained engagement with U.S. counterparts, resulting in collaborative projects, cross-sector partnerships, and ongoing people-to-people dialogue. Strong professional networks create durable channels of

U.S. influence and goodwill in Zimbabwe. Alumni of U.S. exchange programs consistently demonstrate greater alignment with U.S. foreign policy interests and serve as credible advocates for American businesses, institutions, and values within their professional and social communities.

2. Substantial Involvement

U.S. Embassy Roles and Responsibilities

• Provides funding to support a public purpose authorized by federal statute

• Exercises substantial involvement during the performance of the award (e.g., approving work plans, participating in key decisions, reviewing and approving deliverables)

• Sets the terms and conditions of the agreement, including reporting requirements, allowable costs, and compliance obligations

• Monitors performance to ensure the recipient is meeting objectives and using funds appropriately

• Collaborates with the recipient on program design, implementation, and evaluation

• Retains authority to approve or disapprove key activities, personnel, or changes in scope

Recipient Roles and Responsibilities

• Implements the project or program activities as described in the approved work plan

• Manages day-to-day operations, including staffing, procurement, and logistics

• Maintains financial accountability — tracks and reports on expenditures in accordance with federal regulations (e.g., 2 CFR 200)

• Submits required reports (financial and programmatic) on a schedule defined in the agreement

• Coordinates with the USG on substantive decisions and seeks approvals as required

• Complies with all applicable laws, regulations, and award terms and conditions

• Retains responsibility for achieving the agreed-upon results and outcomes

D. APPLICATION CONTENTS AND FORMAT

Please follow all instructions below carefully. Proposals that do not meet the requirements of this announcement or fail to comply with the stated requirements will be ineligible. This Annual

Program Statement utilizes a two-stage application process, Concept Note and Full Application

(Refer to E4). Concept notes submitted by eligible applicants will be reviewed in accordance with the criteria in Section E4, below. Full applications will be reviewed upon invitation only;

applications submitted without a specific invitation will not be reviewed.

Content of Application

Please ensure:

• The proposal clearly addresses the goals and objectives of this funding opportunity

• All documents are in English

• All budgets are in U.S. dollars

• All applicant authorized signatures are provided where indicated on the required forms.

The following documents are required:

1. Mandatory application forms

Phase 1: Concept Note – Deadline September August 31, 2026

• Completed U.S. Embassy concept note template

• Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and an active registration with the SAM.gov

Phase 2: Full Application – Deadline September 4, 2026

Full proposals will be requested from applicants upon invitation only. Proposals submitted without an approved concept note will not be reviewed. Mandatory application forms for phase two are listed below:

• SF-424 (Application for Federal Assistance – organizations) or SF-424-I (Application for

Federal Assistance --individuals) at grants.gov or Embassy website.

• SF-424A (Budget Information for Non-Construction programs) at grants.gov or Embassy website.

• SF-424B (Assurances for Non-Construction programs) at grants.gov or Embassy website.

(note: the SF-424B is only required for individuals, organizations exempt from registration, and for organizations not required to fully register in SAM.gov)

2. Proposal

Applicants must submit a complete narrative proposal in a format of their choice, or they may use the attached proposal template if they like (Attachment 1a). The proposal should contain sufficient information that anyone not familiar with it would understand exactly what the applicant wants to do. The proposal must include all the items below:

• Proposal Summary: Short narrative that outlines the proposed project, including project objectives and anticipated impact.

• Introduction to the Organization or Individual applying: A description of past and present operations, showing ability to carry out the program, including information on all previous grants from the State Department and/or U.S. government agencies as well as experience with and expertise in areas related to those described in the APS.

• Problem Statement: Clear, concise and well-supported statement of the problem to be addressed and why the proposed program is needed

• Program Methods, Design, Activities, and Deliverables: The “goals” describe what the program is intended to achieve. The “objectives” refer to the intermediate accomplishments on the way to the goals. These should be achievable and measurable. Describe the program activities and how they will help achieve the objectives.

• Proposed Project Schedule and Timeline: The proposed timeline for the program activities. Include the dates, times, and locations of planned activities and events.

• Key Personnel: Names, titles, roles and experience/qualifications of key personnel involved in the program. What proportion of their time will be used in support of this program?

• Project Partners: List the names and type of involvement of key partner organizations and sub-awardees (if applicable).

• Future Funding or Sustainability Applicant’s plan for continuing the program beyond the grant period, or the availability of other resources, if applicable.

• Monitoring & Evaluation Plan: Proposals must include a Monitoring and Evaluation

(M&E) Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP) that explains how the applicant plans to track project performance and measure progress toward the project’s goals and objectives. The

PMP should include “If-Then” statements to illustrate how the project activities will lead to the intended results, along with a short datasheet outlining proposed project activities and the indicators that will be used to measure success.

https://www.grants.gov/forms/forms-repository/sf-424-family https://www.grants.gov/forms/forms-repository/sf-424-family https://www.grants.gov/forms/forms-repository/sf-424-family

3. Budget Justification Narrative

• Detailed Budget - Applicants must submit a detailed line-item budget. Applicants are encouraged to utilize the template provided with the funding opportunity but are not required to do so (Attachment 1b). Line-item expenditures should be listed in the greatest possible detail. The budget must identify the total amount of funding requested, with a breakdown of amounts to be spent in the following budget categories: personnel; fringe benefits; travel;

equipment; supplies; consultants/contracts; other direct costs; and indirect costs. See Annex

Section I for a description of the types of costs that should be included in each category.

Personnel salaries should include the level of effort and the rate of pay, which should cover the percentage of time each staff member will dedicate to grant-based activities. If an organization is charging an indirect cost rate without a NICRA, it must apply it to the modified total budget costs (MTDC), refer to 2CFR§200.1. Budgets shall be submitted in

U.S. dollars and final grant agreements will be conducted in U.S. dollars.

• Budget Justification Narrative – Applicants must submit a budget justification narrative to accompany the detailed line-item budget. The purpose of the budget justification narrative is to supplement the information provided in the detailed budget spreadsheet by justifying how the budget cost elements are necessary to implement project objectives and accomplish the project goals. The budget justification narrative is a tool to help Embassy staff fully understand the budgetary needs of the applicant and is an opportunity to provide descriptive information about the requested costs beyond the constraints of the budget template.

Together, the detailed budget spreadsheet, the budget justification narrative, and the SF-424A should provide a complete financial and qualitative description that supports the proposed project plan and should be directly relatable to the specific project components described in the applicant’s proposal.

Additional Budget Notes:

1. Awards to Individuals: Please note the following budget guidelines for the Individual

Award:

Salary/Honoraria: Only the award recipient may receive salary/honoraria from this funding mechanism. The Recipient must be the primary point of contact and manage all programmatic activities.

Contractual Costs: Additional individuals working on the award are only permissible through contracted services, as long as the services are not related to the core programmatic activities. Expenses for services such as accounting, legal support, social media management, website designer, etc., are allowable.

Other Direct Costs: Expenses related to securing venues, managing logistics, catering, etc. are allowable.

2. Audit Requirements: Please note the audit requirements for Department of State awards in the Standard Terms and Conditions https://www.state.gov/m/a/ope/index.htm and

2CFR200, Subpart F – Audit Requirements. The cost of the required audits may be charged either as an allowable direct cost to the award OR included in the organization’s established indirect costs in the award’s detailed budget.

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200/section-200.1#p-200.1(Modified%20Total%20Direct%20Cost%20(MTDC)) https://www.state.gov/m/a/ope/index.htm%20and%202CFR200 https://www.state.gov/m/a/ope/index.htm%20and%202CFR200

3. Visa Fees: Include all visa application and related fees in your budget as applicable.

Please note DS-2019s for post-funded programs must be submitted directly by the award recipient. If you anticipate your program will include the DS-2019 visa processing, your organization must be a registered Designated Sponsoring Organization. For more information go to: https://j1visa.state.gov/sponsors/become-a-sponsor/

4. Attachments

• Key Personnel Resumes: A résumé, not to exceed one page in length, must be included for the proposed key staff persons, such as the Project Director and Finance Officer, as well as any speakers or trainers (if applicable). If an individual for this type of position has not been identified, the applicant may submit a 1-page position description, identifying the qualifications and skills required for that position, in lieu of a résumé.

• Letters of support from program partners: Letters of support should be included for sub-recipients or other partners. The letters must identify the type of relationship to be entered into (formal or informal), the roles and responsibilities of each partner in relation to the proposed project activities, and the expected result of the partnership. The individual letters cannot exceed 1 page in length.

• Indirect Costs: If your organization has a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement

(NICRA) and includes NICRA charges in the budget, your latest NICRA should be included in the application submission.

• Proof of Non-profit Status: Documentation to demonstrate the applicant’s non-profit status

(e.g., U.S.-based organizations should submit a copy of their 501(c)(3) Internal Revenue

Service determination letter, and non-U.S. organizations should provide evidence of non-profit status issued by a government entity).

• Proof of Registration: A copy of the organization’s registration should be provided with the proposal application. U.S.-based organizations should submit a copy of their IRS determination letter. Zimbabwe-based organizations should submit a copy of their certificate of registration from the appropriate government organization.

Other items NOT required/requested with the application submission, but which may be requested if your application is approved to move forward in the review process include:

a. Copies of an organization or program audit within the last two (2) years

b. Copies of relevant human resources, financial, or procurement policies

c. Copies of other relevant organizational policies or documentation that would help the

Department determine your organization’s capacity to manage a federal grant award overseas

d. Documentation that demonstrates the recipients’ plan and/or policy to safeguard PII of participants and beneficiaries. It is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx protection of personally identifiable information (PII) and safeguard PII when collecting, maintaining, using and disseminating such information

e. Information to determine what financial controls and standard operating procedures an organization uses to procure goods and services, hire staff and track time and attendance, pay for grant-related travel, and identify other financial transactions that may be necessary to undertake the project activities

f. The Embassy reserves the right to request any additional programmatic and/or financial information regarding the proposal.

E. SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND DEADLINES

Concept note deadline: September 9, 2026

Full application deadline (if invited) September 13, 2026

1. Address to Request Application Package

Application forms required above are available at Email PublicDiplomacyGrants-

ZIM@state.gov

2. Department of State Contacts

If you have any questions about the grant application process, please contact:

PublicDiplomacyGrants-ZIM@state.gov

3. Unique entity identifier and System for Award Management (SAM.gov)

Required Registration: All organizations, whether based in the United States or in another country, must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and an active registration in SAM.gov. A

UEI is one of the data elements mandated by Public Law 109-282, the Federal Funding

Accountability and Transparency Act (FFATA), for all Federal awards.

An applicant must maintain an active registration while it has a proposal under review by the

Department and must continue to keep the registration active for the entire duration of the period of performance of any Federal award that results from this NOFO.

The 2 CFR 200 also requires subrecipients to obtain a UEI. Please note the UEI for subrecipients is not required at the time of application but will be required before an award is processed and/or directed to a subrecipient.

Note: The process of obtaining or renewing a SAM.gov registration may take anywhere from

4-8 weeks. Please begin your registration as early as possible.

• Organizations based in the United States or that pay employees within the United States will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service

(IRS) and a UEI prior to registering in SAM.gov.

• Organizations based outside of the United States and that do not pay employees within the United States do not need an EIN from the IRS but do need a UEI prior to registering in SAM.gov.

mailto:PublicDiplomacyGrants-ZIM@state.gov

• Organizations based outside of the United States that do not intend to apply for U.S.

Department of Defense (DoD) awards are no longer required to have a NATO

Commercial and Government Entity (NCAGE) code to apply for non-DoD foreign assistance funding opportunities. If an applicant organization is mid-registration and wishes to remove an NCAGE code from their SAM.gov registration, the applicant should submit a help desk ticket (“incident”) with the Federal Service Desk (FSD) online at www.fsd.gov using the following language: “I do not intend to seek financial assistance from the Department of Defense. I do not wish to obtain an NCAGE code. I understand that I will need to submit my registration after this incident is resolved in order to have my registration activated.”

Organizations based outside of the United States and that DO NOT plan to do business with the

DoD should follow the below instructions:

• Step 1: Proceed to SAM.gov to obtain a UEI and complete the SAM.gov registration process. SAM.gov registration must be renewed annually.

Exemptions

An exemption from the UEI and sam.gov registration requirements may be permitted on a case-by-case basis. See 2 CFR 25.110 for a full list of exemptions.

Organizations requesting exemption from UEI or SAM.gov requirements must email the point of contact listed in the NOFO at least two weeks prior to the deadline in the NOFO providing a justification of their request. Approval for a SAM.gov exemption must come from the warranted

Grants Officer before the application can be deemed eligible for review.

Please note: Any applicant with an exclusion in the System for Award Management (SAM) is not eligible to apply for an assistance award in accordance with the OMB guidelines at 2 CFR 180 that implement Executive Orders 12549 (3 CFR, 1986 Comp., p. 189) and 12689 (3 CFR, 1989 Comp.,

p. 235), “Debarment and Suspension.”

4. Submission Dates and Times

Two-Stage Application Process

To streamline the application process and reduce the burden on applicants, this Annual Program

Statement utilizes a two-stage application process:

Stage 1: Concept Note Submission

Applicants are required to submit a concept note instead of a full application package. The concept note should be no more than [3-5] pages and include:

• A brief description of the proposed project

• Project objectives and expected outcomes

• Target beneficiaries and geographic focus

• Estimated budget range

• Organizational capacity and relevant experience

Concept notes are due by September 9, 2026.

https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fsd.gov%2Fgsafsd_sp%3Fid%3Dgsafsd_kb_articles%26sys_id%3Dc81018e71b1601d0937fa64ce54bcb57&data=05%7C01%7Cfjeldkk%40state.gov%7C0cc4e2b471f44abcd32308db093ecead%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638113937577534024%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=W2ShcazZBQbanYGj0cLOTnUJwv%2BGL4xfwr83%2BycQY2E%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fsd.gov%2Fgsafsd_sp%3Fid%3Dgsafsd_kb_articles%26sys_id%3Dc81018e71b1601d0937fa64ce54bcb57&data=05%7C01%7Cfjeldkk%40state.gov%7C0cc4e2b471f44abcd32308db093ecead%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638113937577534024%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=W2ShcazZBQbanYGj0cLOTnUJwv%2BGL4xfwr83%2BycQY2E%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fsd.gov%2Fgsafsd_sp%3Fid%3Dgsafsd_kb_articles%26sys_id%3Dc81018e71b1601d0937fa64ce54bcb57&data=05%7C01%7Cfjeldkk%40state.gov%7C0cc4e2b471f44abcd32308db093ecead%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638113937577534024%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=W2ShcazZBQbanYGj0cLOTnUJwv%2BGL4xfwr83%2BycQY2E%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fsd.gov%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cfjeldkk%40state.gov%7C0cc4e2b471f44abcd32308db093ecead%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638113937577534024%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=t32ANWzgpiB93pMWoq%2BFCSHz4YJY9QF1S1iQzCsS6RM%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fsd.gov%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cfjeldkk%40state.gov%7C0cc4e2b471f44abcd32308db093ecead%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638113937577534024%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=t32ANWzgpiB93pMWoq%2BFCSHz4YJY9QF1S1iQzCsS6RM%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fsd.gov%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cfjeldkk%40state.gov%7C0cc4e2b471f44abcd32308db093ecead%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638113937577534024%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=t32ANWzgpiB93pMWoq%2BFCSHz4YJY9QF1S1iQzCsS6RM%3D&reserved=0 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-I/part-25/subpart-A/section-25.110

Stage 2: Full Application (by invitation only)

Post will review all concept notes and invite selected applicants to submit full applications. Only those applicants whose concept notes are deemed most aligned with program objectives and priorities will be invited to submit complete application packages.

Invited applicants will be notified by September 10, 2026 and will have until September 13, 2026 to submit their full applications, including all required forms and supporting documentation.

This approach allows the grants committee adequate time to review applications thoroughly while minimizing the time and resources applicants invest in preparing materials for projects that may not align with program priorities.

Submission Method: Submitting all application materials directly to the following email address: PublicDiplomacyGrants-ZIM@state.gov. Applicants opting to submit applications via email must include the Funding Opportunity Title and Funding Opportunity Number in the subject line of the email.

5. Funding Restrictions

i. Funding Restrictions for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA): None of the funds awarded resulting from this Notice of Funding Opportunity may be made available for subawards, direct financial support, or otherwise used to provide any payment or transfer to United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).

ii. Prohibition on Funding Activities that Encourage Mass-Migration Caravans towards the

United States Southwest Border: None of the funds awarded under this grant may be made available to encourage, mobilize, publicize, or manage mass-migration caravans towards the United States southwest border. Funds may not be made available for legal counseling on the United States asylum process; and/or for referrals to legal representation in the United States.

Funds may only be used for cash cards for use in the country in which they are provided or to facilitate assisted voluntary returns and other purposes that do not encourage, mobilize, publicize, or manage mass migration caravans towards the United States southwest border. The provision of humanitarian assistance is permitted.

iii. Certification Regarding Compliance with Applicable Federal Anti-Discrimination Laws”

If the place of performance or delivery of any award made under this NOFO will be within the United States, applicants are advised that they will be required to certify the following at the time of award:

a. Its compliance in all respects with all applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws is material to the government’s payment decisions for purposes of section

3729(b)(4) of title 31, United States Code and;

b. It does not operate any programs promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion that violate any applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws. A program promoting

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion means a program whose purpose is to promote preferences based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origins, such as in training or hiring.

iv. Certification Regarding Compliance with 20 U.S.C. 1011f and any other applicable foreign funding disclosure requirements: Applicants are advised that IHEs must certify the following at the time of award, and that this certification requirement must be included in any subaward agreements to IHEs:

a. Its compliance in all respects with section 1011f of title 20, United States Code, and any other applicable foreign funding disclosure requirements is material for purposes of section 3729 of title 31, United States Code, and for receipt of appropriate Federal grant funds.

b. Applicants seeking clarification on the reporting requirement are encouraged to review the Frequently Asked Questions resource developed by the U.S.

Department of Education.

v. Certification of Trafficking in Persons Compliance and Compliance Plan: Applicants are advised that they will be required to certify the following at the time of award for awards where the estimated value of services to be performed outside the United States exceeds

$500,000:

a. To the best of the Recipient’s knowledge, neither the Recipient, nor any subrecipient, contractor, or subcontractor of the Recipient or any agent of the recipient or of such a subrecipient, contractor, or subcontractor, is engaged in any of the activities described in 2 CFR 175.105(a);

b. The recipient has implemented a Trafficking in Persons compliance plan to prevent activities described in 2 CFR 175(a) and is compliant with this plan; and the compliance plan must follow the minimum requirements described in 2 CFR

175(b)(5).

c. That the Recipient has and will implement procedures to prevent activities described in 2 CFR 175.105(a) and to monitor, detect, and terminate any subrecipient, contractor, subcontractor, or employee of the recipient engaging in these activities.

Recipients do not need to submit a copy of the plan. However, they must provide it to the

Grants Officer upon request, and as appropriate, must post the useful and relevant contents of the plan or related materials on its website and at the workplace. Recipients must re-certify on an annual basis for the entire award period of performance.

vi. Prohibition of Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS). If your project involves the purchase or use of an UAS, see this link for requirements and information you must include in your application.

vii. Pre-Award Costs: Pre-award costs are generally not allowable under this APS unless approved in advance by the Grants Officer and justified in the proposal.

https://fsapartners.ed.gov/knowledge-center/topics/section-117-foreign-gift-and-contract-reporting/resources/frequently-asked-questions https://www.state.gov/federal-assistance-policies-appeals/

viii. Construction: Any award made as a result of this APS will not allow for construction activities or costs.

ix. Direct Social Services: Costs that cover and provide direct social services, such as welfare, charity, health or economic relief, are unallowable. Medical assistance, such as costs to include medical professionals, including but not limited to doctors, nurses, and psychiatrists to participate in the project activities are not allowed.

6. Other Submission Requirements: Copyrights and Proprietary Information

If any of the information contained in your application is proprietary, please note in the footer of the appropriate pages that the information is Confidential – Proprietary. Applicants should also note what parts of the application, program, concept, etc. are covered by copyright(s), trademark(s), or any other intellectual property rights and provide copies of the relevant documentation to support these copyrights.

Applicants must acquire all required registrations and rights in the United States and

Zimbabwe. All intellectual property considerations and rights must be fully met in the

United States and Zimbabwe.

Any sub-recipient organization must also meet all the U.S. and Zimbabwe requirements described above.

F. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

1. Review Criteria

Criteria: Each application submitted under this announcement will be evaluated and rated on the basis of the criteria enumerated below. The criteria are designed to assess the quality of the proposed project, and to determine the likelihood of its success.

Quality and Feasibility of the Program Idea – 30 points: The program idea should be innovative and well developed, with sufficient detail about how project activities will be carried out. The proposals should demonstrate originality and outline clear, achievable objectives that align directly with the priorities and requirements of the APS. The proposal includes a reasonable implementation timeline, and the project scope is appropriate and clearly defined. Finally, the proposal aligns with the following:

The project clearly demonstrates a direct contribution to current U.S. foreign policy priorities.

The project will positively impact America’s reputation among foreign government partners.

The project will positively impact American’s reputation among foreign publics.

The proposal does not include any activities contrary to the following Executive

Orders:

▪ Executive Order 14173: "Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring

Merit-Based Opportunity

▪ Executive Order 14287: “Protecting American Communities from

Criminal Aliens” https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/ending-illegal-discrimination-and-restoring-merit-based-opportunity/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/ending-illegal-discrimination-and-restoring-merit-based-opportunity/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/protecting-american-communities-from-criminal-aliens/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/protecting-american-communities-from-criminal-aliens/

▪ Executive Order 14168: Defending Women from Gender Ideology

Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government

Organizational Capacity and Record on Previous Grants – 25 points:

o The project proposal demonstrates that the organization has sufficient expertise, skills, and human resources to implement the project, including internal controls in place to manage federal funds. If sub-awards are proposed, applicant demonstrates experience managing subawards.

o The organization demonstrates that it has a clear understanding of the underlying issue that the project will address.

o The organization demonstrates capacity for successful planning and responsible fiscal management. This includes a financial management system, a bank account, and if applicable, satisfactory audit findings.

o Applicants who have received grant funds previously have been compliant with applicable rules and regulations, including the Award Provisions and Standard

Terms and Conditions.

o Where partners are described, the applicant details each partner’s respective role and provides curriculum vitae (CVs) for persons responsible for the project and financial administration. Proposed personnel, institutional resources, and partners are adequate and appropriate.

• Project Planning/Ability to Achieve Objectives – 20 points: The project plan is well developed, with sufficient detail about how activities will be carried out. The proposal specifies target audiences, participant recruitment, and geographic areas of implementation. The proposal outlines clear, achievable objectives. The proposal includes a reasonable implementation timeline. The project scope is appropriate and clearly defined.

• Budget – 10 points: The budget and narrative justification are sufficiently detailed. The budget demonstrates that the organization has devoted time to accurately determine expenses associated with the project instead of providing rough estimates. Costs are reasonable in relation to the proposed activities and anticipated results. The results and proposed outcomes justify the total cost of the project. Budget items are reasonable, allowable, and allocable.

• Monitoring and Evaluation - 10 points: The project proposal includes an M&E plan.

The applicant demonstrates it is able to measure program success against key indicators and provides milestones to indicate progress toward goals and objectives outlined in the proposal. The proposal includes output and outcome indicators and shows how and when those will be measured. Funded projects will have their plans finalized during the negotiation phase, and monitoring plans may be subject to periodic updates throughout the life of the project.

• Sustainability – 5 points: The project proposal describes clearly the approach that will be used to ensure maximum sustainability or advancement of project goals after the end of project activity.

https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/defending-women-from-gender-ideology-extremism-and-restoring-biological-truth-to-the-federal-government/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/defending-women-from-gender-ideology-extremism-and-restoring-biological-truth-to-the-federal-government/

2. Indirect Costs

If two or more applications receive equivalent scores based on the evaluation criteria outlined in this NOFO, preference will be given to the applicant with the lower indirect cost rate, as consistent with Executive Order 14332, Section 4(b)(iii). This preference will only be applied as a tie-breaking mechanism and does not supersede the primary evaluation criteria.

3. Review and Selection Process

a. Acknowledgement of receipt. Applicants will receive acknowledgment of receipt of their proposal.

b. Review. All submissions are screened for technical eligibility. If a submission is missing any required forms/documents listed above in Section D. Application

Contents and Format, it will be considered ineligible and will not be reviewed by the grants review committee. A technical review panel will review eligible proposals based upon the criteria noted in this APS.

c. Follow up notification. Applicants will generally be notified within 120 days after the

APS deadline regarding the results of the review panel.

2. Risk Review

i. Under the merit review as required by 2 CFR 200.206, prior to making a Federal Award the Department will review and consider the following risk factors:

a. Financial stability

b. Management systems and standards

c. History of performance

d. Audit reports and findings

e. Ability to effectively implement project requirements

ii. High Risk Designation

Awardees that are deemed to be high risk based on the above risk factors will be held to special award conditions. At a minimum, the recipient and/or project designated as High

Risk will be required to submit monthly narrative reports and/or quarterly detailed financial reports. Recipients may also be required, upon request of the Grants Officer or Grants

Officer Representative, to provide electronic copies of receipts or other supporting documentation (e.g., timesheets, travel documents) for costs incurred. The Grants Officer may withhold 10% of the award amount until final reports have been reviewed and approved by the GO. The recipient may be required to pay all salaries supported by the grant via electronic funds transfer. Other special award conditions may also be included if deemed appropriate by the Grants Officer.

iii. Risk Analysis Management

To qualify for final consideration, certain applicants may be required to undertake the Risk

Analysis Management (RAM) vetting process by providing Risk Analysis Information (RAI) https://usdos.sharepoint.com/:w:/r/sites/SCA-PPDGrants/Shared%20Documents/General/Notice%20of%20Funding%20Opportunity-10.1.24.docx?d=wb396511fdae042679406a77f19b9cc20&csf=1&web=1&e=fMlysk&nav=eyJoIjoiNTg5NzEwMDc4In0 https://usdos.sharepoint.com/:w:/r/sites/SCA-PPDGrants/Shared%20Documents/General/Notice%20of%20Funding%20Opportunity-10.1.24.docx?d=wb396511fdae042679406a77f19b9cc20&csf=1&web=1&e=fMlysk&nav=eyJoIjoiNTg5NzEwMDc4In0 about their “key individuals” (i.e., individuals with the ability to control applicant organizations’ funds), including “key individuals” from selected sub-recipients. Please note: these individuals could be different from the key personnel listed in the section 4 of required documents. The purpose of vetting potential contractors and grantees is to reduce the risk that federal assistance funding is provided to terrorists or their supporters. Potential grantees will be notified separately if RAI is required. Applicants submit key individuals’ RAI by completing the Risk Analysis Information Form, DS-4184, through the secure web portal at https://ramportal.state.gov. The DS-4184 requests the following RAI for each key individual: Full Name; Aliases; Gender; Birth Place; Birthdate; Home/Work Addresses; Phone

Numbers; Employer; Professional Title; Email Addresses; Skype ID (if included, email address is also required); Numbers from All Official IDs (e.g., passports, ID cards, etc.); Nationalities;

and Social Security Number (if U.S. person). Questions about the DS-4184 form may be emailed to RAM@state.gov. Failure to submit information when requested, or failure to pass vetting, may be grounds for rejecting your proposal.

G. AWARD NOTICES

The award or cooperative agreement will be written, signed, awarded, and administered by the

Grants Officer. The award agreement is the authorizing document, and it will be provided to the recipient for review and counter-signature. The recipient may only start incurring project expenses beginning on the start date shown on the award document signed by the Grants Officer.

If a proposal is selected for funding, the Department of State has no obligation to provide any additional future funding. Renewal of an award to increase funding or extend the period of performance is at the discretion of the Department of State.

Issuance of this APS does not constitute an award commitment on the part of the U.S.

government, nor does it commit the U.S. government to pay for costs incurred in the preparation and submission of proposals. Further, the U.S. government reserves the right to reject any or all proposals received.

Payment Method:

Recipients will be required to request payments by completing form SF-270—Request for

Advance or Reimbursement and submitting the form to the Grants Officer and Grants Officer

Representative.

Recipients may not draw down funds without the affirmative authorization of the Department of

State. In addition, recipients must submit, with each SF-270 payment request, a detailed explanation justifying the request.

https://j1visa.state.gov/sponsors/become-a-sponsor/ https://step.state.gov/step/

H. POST-AWARD REQUIREMENTS AND ADMINISTRATION

1. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

Before submitting an application, applicants should review all the terms and conditions and required certifications which will apply to this award, to ensure that they will be able to comply. These include:

In accordance with the Office of Management and Budget’s guidance located at 2 CFR part

200, all applicable Federal laws, and relevant Executive guidance, the Department of State will review and consider applications for funding, as applicable to specific programs, pursuant to this notice of funding opportunity in accordance with the following: NOTE:

• Guidance for Grants and Agreements in Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (2

CFR), as updated in the Federal Register’s 89 FR 30046 on April 22, 2024, particularly on:

o Selecting recipients most likely to be successful in delivering results based on the program objectives through an impartial process of evaluating Federal award applications (2 CFR part 200.205), o Promoting the freedom of speech and religious liberty in alignment with

Promoting Free Speech and Religious Liberty (E.O. 13798) and Improving Free

Inquiry, Transparency, and Accountability at Colleges and Universities (E.O.

13864) (§§ 200.300, 200.303, 200.339, and 200.341), o Providing a preference, to the extent permitted by law, to maximize use of goods, products, and materials produced in the United States (2 CFR part 200.322), and o Terminating agreements pursuant to the U.S. Department of State Standard Terms and Conditions, including, to the greatest extent authorized by law, if an award no longer effectuates the program goals or agency priorities (2 CFR part 200.340).

For the avoidance of doubt, the Department has sole discretion over the determination that an award no longer effectuates program goals or agency priorities, and this provision permits awards to be terminated at the Department’s convenience, including when it determines that the award no longer advances the national interest.

• 2 CFR 25 - UNIVERSAL IDENTIFIER AND SYSTEM FOR AWARD

MANAGEMENT

• 2 CFR 170 - REPORTING SUBAWARD AND EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

INFORMATION

• 2 CFR 175 - AWARD TERM FOR TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS

• 2 CFR 182 - GOVERNMENTWIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR DRUG-FREE

WORKPLACE (FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE)

• 2 CFR 183 - NEVER CONTRACT WITH THE ENEMY

• 2 CFR 600 – DEPARTMENT OF STATE REQUIREMENTS

https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=81a5f41de81c46a9844617d93a9db081&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=81a5f41de81c46a9844617d93a9db081&mc=true&node=pt2.1.25&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=81a5f41de81c46a9844617d93a9db081&mc=true&node=pt2.1.25&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=81a5f41de81c46a9844617d93a9db081&mc=true&node=pt2.1.170&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=81a5f41de81c46a9844617d93a9db081&mc=true&node=pt2.1.170&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=81a5f41de81c46a9844617d93a9db081&mc=true&node=pt2.1.175&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=81a5f41de81c46a9844617d93a9db081&mc=true&node=pt2.1.182&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=81a5f41de81c46a9844617d93a9db081&mc=true&node=pt2.1.182&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=81a5f41de81c46a9844617d93a9db081&mc=true&node=pt2.1.183&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=81a5f41de81c46a9844617d93a9db081&mc=true&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title02/2chapterVI.tpl

• U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS

• Recipients must comply with all applicable Executive Orders. A searchable list can be found in the Federal Register: https://www.federalregister.gov/ .

2. Reporting

Reporting Requirements: Recipients will be required to submit financial reports and program reports. The award document will specify what reports are required and how often these reports must be submitted. Note: most recipients will be required to submit quarterly program progress and financial reports throughout the project period.